“JAMB UTME Score Is Not the Admission Guarantee!
Did you score above 300? Think that’s enough to pick your dream course? Think again. JAMB and tertiary institutions look at much more O’Level results, Post-UTME scores, course quotas, and even system glitches. Many high-scorers are still missing out. Keep reading to learn why and how you can make sure that doesn’t happen to you.”
Why you need to read this carefully:
Scoring high in the UTME doesn’t guarantee admission. JAMB uses a holistic system for selection, and many deserving candidates still miss out. Here’s why and how to avoid the pitfalls.
- UTME Alone Isn’t Enough
According to JAMB, admission decisions are based on a combination of factors: UTME scores, O’Level results, and Post-UTME screening performance not UTME scores alone.
- Tough Competition & Limited Slots
Even candidates with stellar UTME scores may rank below others when schools have limited admission slots. For instance, a candidate who scored 345 was ranked 86th, but only the top 68 were admitted.
- Wrong Subject Combinations
Choosing the wrong subject combination for your desired course or having O’Level subjects that don’t align with course requirements can disqualify you, regardless of how high your UTME score is.
- Poor O’Level or Post-UTME Performance
Even with a high UTME score, weak O’Level results (especially lacking required credits) or a low Post-UTME score can pull your aggregate ranking down.
- Refusing Alternatives: Limited Choices Can Backfire
Relying solely on competitive courses like Medicine, Law, Nursing or Engineering can hurt. These programs have a high applicant-to-slot ratio. Many candidates with high scores refuse lower-demand courses or institutions, limiting their admission chances.
- Missed Post-UTME or Application Lapses
Failing to attend Post-UTME screenings, submitting incomplete documentation, or missing deadlines can disqualify even top scorers.
- Institutional Quotas & Catchment Restrictions
Universities allocate quotas based on merit, catchment areas, and quotas for less-developed states (ELDS). High-scoring candidates may still miss out due to these allocations.
What You Can Do: Key Advice for JAMB 2025 Aspirants
- Ensure O’Level Alignment
Confirm your SSCE subjects match your chosen course’s requirements before applying.
- Ensure O'Level/A'Level Upload
"No O'Level Upload, No Admission" Policy still stands
- Excel Beyond UTME
Prepare thoroughly for Post-UTME and ensure your O’Level results are solid—these are just as crucial.
- Be Open to Choices
Consider less competitive courses or institutions. Being flexible can increase your chances of securing admission.
- Meet All Deadlines and Requirements
Attend Post-UTME screenings, submit documentation promptly, and avoid avoidable mistakes.
- Know Your Placement System
Understand how departmental, catchment, and quota systems affect selection in your institution.
- Ensure you Accept your Admission within 2 weeks
Always check your JAMB CAPS to see if you've been admitted so you can accept your admission. Being unable to accept your admission within 2 weeks will cause revocation of the admission.
HAVE YOU BEEN ADMITTED AND YOU WANT TO CONFIRM IF IT IS A LEGIT ADMISSION?