Mass Communication is one of the most competitive courses at the University of Benin (UNIBEN). Every year, a large number of candidates apply for the programme, which makes understanding the JAMB cut-off mark very important for serious aspirants.
This guide explains the general UTME cut-off mark, the departmental cut-off mark for Mass Communication, how UNIBEN calculates admission scores, and what candidates should do to improve their chances for the 2026/2027 admission session.
Understanding Cut-Off Marks at UNIBEN
A cut-off mark is the minimum UTME score a candidate must obtain to be considered for admission into a university or a specific course.
At UNIBEN, cut-off marks are grouped into two categories:
General UTME Cut-Off Mark
This is the minimum score required to qualify for UNIBEN’s screening exercise.
Departmental Cut-Off Mark
This is the score used to select candidates into specific courses. Competitive courses usually require higher marks.
Meeting the general cut-off mark qualifies you for screening.
Meeting the departmental cut-off mark determines whether you are competitive for admission.
UNIBEN General UTME Cut-Off Mark for 2026/2027
For the 2026/2027 academic session, the general UTME cut-off mark for UNIBEN is 200.
Only candidates who score 200 and above in UTME and select UNIBEN as first choice are eligible to participate in the admission screening process.
UNIBEN Cut-Off Mark for Mass Communication 2026/2027
Mass Communication is consistently ranked among the high-demand courses at UNIBEN.
For 2026/2027:
- Minimum UTME eligibility score: 200
- Departmental cut-off mark for Mass Communication: 210 and above
This means:
- A score of 200 qualifies you for screening
- 210+ places you in a competitive position, especially under Merit consideration
Due to competition, candidates with scores closer to or above the departmental benchmark stand a much better chance of admission.
UNIBEN Post-UTME Screening and Aggregate Score
After meeting the UTME requirement, candidates must take part in UNIBEN’s screening exercise. Final admission is based on an aggregate score, not UTME alone.
Aggregate Score Calculation
UNIBEN calculates aggregate scores using this method:
- UTME score ÷ 8
- Screening score ÷ 2
- Add both values together
Example:
UTME score: 240 → 240 ÷ 8 = 30
Screening score: 60 → 60 ÷ 2 = 30
Aggregate score: 60
This aggregate is then compared with the departmental cut-off mark for Mass Communication to determine admission eligibility.
Mass Communication Admission Requirements at UNIBEN
In addition to meeting the cut-off marks, candidates must:
- Have at least five O-Level credits, including:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Literature in English
- Two other relevant subjects
- Choose UNIBEN as first choice in UTME
- Meet the age requirement set by the university
- Perform competitively in the screening exercise
How to Improve Your Admission Chances
- Aim above 210 UTME to stay competitive
- Prepare thoroughly for the screening exercise
- Ensure correct O-Level subject combination
- Avoid errors during registration and screening
- Always have a backup course option within UNIBEN
Conclusion
For the 2026/2027 admission session, the general UTME cut-off mark for UNIBEN remains 200, while Mass Communication requires 210 and above due to high competition.
Candidates who combine a strong UTME score with good screening performance and correct subject requirements stand the best chance of gaining admission into the Mass Communication programme at UNIBEN.
For a full breakdown of JAMB cut-off marks for federal, state, and private universities, see the complete guide here.