It was decided that the minimum cut-off mark for admission in 2023 would be set at 140. This decision was supported by the Registrars of universities, with the exception of 15 private universities that opted for slightly lower cut-off marks ranging from 130 to 120.
Similarly, the rectors of polytechnics agreed on a minimum cut-off mark of 100 for admission into their institutions. This decision was mirrored by the provosts of colleges, who also adopted 100 as the minimum cut-off mark for admission into colleges.
Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, the Registrar of JAMB, emphasised that institutions would not be permitted to go below the minimum cut-off marks they had adopted for admission into various programs. This decision aims to ensure fairness and standardisation across the board.
A key point of agreement during the meeting was the recognition that students should not be denied admission solely based on their UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) score. It was determined that students should be given the opportunity to participate in all stages of the admission process, with the final decision being made after considering their overall performance and total score.
This decision by the heads of universities, polytechnics, and colleges is expected to provide clarity and consistency in the admission process for the 2023 academic year. It reflects a commitment to fairness and inclusivity, ensuring that students are evaluated holistically rather than solely relying on a single examination score.
The adoption of these minimum cut-off marks will guide universities, polytechnics, and colleges across the country in their admission processes. It is hoped that this standardised approach will promote transparency, equal opportunities, and merit-based admissions, ultimately leading to the development of a highly qualified and diverse student body in Nigerian higher education institutions.