Imo State University (IMSU) is a well-known university in Nigeria, attracting thousands of applicants yearly. One of the most important factors determining admission into IMSU is the cut off mark. This article explains the cut off mark, how it is determined, and what students can do if they do not meet it.
Understanding the IMSU cut-off mark is crucial for aspiring students. It determines eligibility for various courses and ensures that only qualified students gain admission. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of IMSU’s admission requirements, including the departmental cut off marks, post-UTME details, and alternative pathways to admission.
What is a Cut Off Mark?
A cut off mark is the minimum score required in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for a candidate to be eligible for admission into a university. It is used to screen students before they proceed to the next stage of the admission process.
Each university sets its own cut off mark based on factors such as competition, available admission slots, and academic standards. Candidates must meet or exceed this mark to be considered for admission into their chosen program.
IMSU Cut Off Mark for 2025/2026 Academic Session
For the 2025/2026 academic session, IMSU has set its general cut off mark at 150. However, this is just a baseline. Many competitive courses require much higher scores.
Below is a breakdown of the departmental cut off marks for key courses at IMSU:
Courses | Cut off Mark |
Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development | 180 |
Animal Science and Fisheries | 180 |
Crop Science and Biotechnology | 180 |
Soil Science and Environment | 180 |
Accounting | 200 |
Banking and Finance | 190 |
Hospitality and Tourism Management | 180 |
Insurance and Actuarial Science | 180 |
Management | 190 |
Marketing | 180 |
Curriculum and Educational Technology | 180 |
Educational Foundations and Administration | 180 |
Guidance and Counselling | 180 |
Library and Information Science | 180 |
Science Education | 180 |
Agricultural Engineering | 190 |
Civil Engineering | 200 |
Electrical and Electronic Engineering | 200 |
Food Science and Technology | 180 |
Mechanical Engineering | 200 |
Architecture | 190 |
Building | 180 |
Estate Management | 180 |
Fine and Applied Arts | 180 |
Quantity Surveying | 180 |
Surveying and Geoinformatics | 180 |
Urban and Regional Planning | 180 |
Medical Laboratory Science | 200 |
Nursing Science | 200 |
Nutrition and Dietetics | 180 |
Public Health | 190 |
English and Literary Studies | 190 |
History and International Studies | 180 |
Linguistics and Igbo | 180 |
Philosophy | 180 |
Religious Studies | 180 |
Theatre Arts | 180 |
Law | 220 |
Medicine and Surgery | 250 |
Animal and Environmental Biology | 180 |
Biochemistry | 200 |
Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry | 180 |
Computer Science | 200 |
Mathematics | 180 |
Microbiology | 190 |
Physics | 180 |
Plant Science and Biotechnology | 180 |
Statistics | 180 |
Economics | 190 |
Geography and Environmental Management | 180 |
Mass Communication | 200 |
Political Science | 190 |
Psychology | 180 |
Sociology | 180 |
These figures change yearly, depending on the number of applicants and the university’s admission policies. Students should always check IMSU’s official website for updates on departmental cut off marks.
How IMSU Determines Its Cut Off Mark
IMSU considers several factors when setting its cut off mark:
- Number of Applicants – Courses with more applicants often have higher cut off marks.
- Performance Trends – If many students score high in UTME, IMSU may raise the cut off.
- Admission Quota – The university balances demand with available slots.
- Post-UTME Performance – IMSU conducts post-UTME screening, which also affects admission chances.
IMSU Post-UTME and Aggregate Score Calculation
IMSU uses an aggregate score system to determine admission. Here’s how it works:
- UTME Score (50%)
- Post-UTME Score (30%)
- O’Level Grades (20%)
For example, if a student scores 280 in UTME, 70 in post-UTME, and has A’s and B’s in O’Level, their total score will be calculated as:
- UTME: 280 ÷ 4 = 70
- Post-UTME: 70 × 0.3 = 21
- O’Level: Strong grades contribute around 8-10 points
- Total Aggregate Score: 70 + 21 + 9 = 100
The higher your total score, the better your chances of admission. A student who scores above the required cut off mark but performs poorly in post-UTME may still struggle to gain admission.
What to Do If You Don’t Meet the IMSU Cut Off Mark
If you score below the required cut off mark for your desired course, you still have options:
- Consider a Less Competitive Course – Some courses require lower scores. You can apply for a related course and switch later if possible.
- Go for a Pre-degree Program – IMSU offers pre-degree programs that can help students gain admission.
- Apply for a Supplementary Admission – IMSU sometimes allows students to apply for courses with unfilled slots.
- Retake UTME – If determined, you can study harder and retake JAMB the following year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The general cut off mark is 150, but some courses require higher scores.
Yes, but only for less competitive courses such as Agriculture and Education.
No, IMSU only considers first-choice candidates for admission.
Yes, IMSU conducts post-UTME screening, which is mandatory for all applicants.
Yes, but only if there are available slots in the desired department.
You may not gain admission. A good UTME score must be matched with strong post-UTME performance.
You will need:
JAMB result slip
O’Level certificates
Birth certificate
Local government identification
IMSU post-UTME result
Yes, IMSU accepts Direct Entry (DE) candidates.
Yes, IMSU allows inter-university transfers under certain conditions.
Visit the official IMSU website for updates.
Conclusion
IMSU’s cut off mark plays a crucial role in admission decisions. While 150 is the general minimum, many competitive courses require higher scores. Understanding how IMSU calculates admission scores can help students prepare effectively.
If you don’t meet the cut off mark, explore alternative options like pre-degree programs or supplementary admissions. Always check the university’s official announcements to stay informed about changes in cut off marks and admission policies.
By setting a clear goal and preparing well, you can improve your chances of securing admission into IMSU and pursuing your desired course.
