What is the difference between JAMB and Post-UTME cut-off marks, and how do they affect admission?

In Nigeria, JAMB (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) cut-off marks and Post-UTME scores play a crucial role in determining eligibility for admission into tertiary institutions. Here's a breakdown:

JAMB Cut-off Marks

- Set by JAMB as the minimum score for admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions

- General cut-off mark for universities (e.g., 140) and another for polytechnics and colleges of education (e.g., 100)

- Meeting the JAMB cut-off mark makes a candidate eligible for Post-UTME

Post-UTME Cut-off Marks

- Set by each tertiary institution for their programs

- Institutions combine JAMB scores and Post-UTME scores to determine final aggregate scores

- Aggregate scores determine admission into specific departments or programs

- Cut-off marks are usually higher for competitive courses like Medicine, Law, and Pharmacy

How Cut-off Marks Affect Admission

- JAMB cut-off marks are the first hurdle: Candidates must meet the minimum JAMB score to be considered

- Post-UTME is the final determinant: Candidates must perform well in Post-UTME to be admitted into their desired program

- Institutions have their own criteria: Each institution sets its own cut-off marks and admission criteria

- Departmental cut-off marks: Some institutions have specific cut-off marks for different departments or programs