Choosing a course like Physiology in Nigeria can be exciting, but one of the first hurdles every student must cross is meeting the JAMB cut off mark.
Every year, thousands of students search for the exact cut off mark required to study Physiology, and many are often confused because the numbers vary depending on the university.
If you are planning to study Physiology, this article will break everything down so you can clearly understand what JAMB cut off mark means, how it affects your admission chances, and how to prepare yourself.
What Does JAMB Cut Off Mark Mean?
The term “cut off mark” refers to the minimum score a candidate must achieve in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to be considered for admission into a university program.
For example, if JAMB sets the general cut off mark at 160, it means that no university in Nigeria is allowed to admit candidates who scored below 160. However, each university can decide to set a higher cut off mark for certain competitive courses, including Physiology.
The General JAMB Cut Off Mark for Universities
Every year, JAMB announces a general cut off mark which serves as the minimum benchmark for admission. In recent years, the general cut off marks have usually been:
| Institution Type | Minimum JAMB Cut Off Mark |
|---|---|
| Universities | ≥160 |
| Polytechnics | ≥120 |
| Colleges of Education | ≥100 |
But note that this general cut off mark is only the foundation. Universities offering medical and health-related courses, including Physiology, usually raise the bar higher.
Departmental Cut Off Marks for Physiology
This is where many students get confused. Meeting the general JAMB cut off mark does not guarantee admission. What truly matters is the departmental cut off mark. Each university decides its own departmental cut off mark for courses like Physiology, based on the number of applicants and the available admission slots.
For Physiology, the departmental cut off mark is usually between 180 and 220 depending on the university. For highly competitive schools, it may even go above 220.
How Do Universities Decide Their Cut Off Marks?
Universities consider several factors when setting their departmental cut off marks:
- Number of applicants: The higher the number of candidates applying for Physiology, the higher the cut off mark.
- Admission quota: Each department has a limited number of slots. If Physiology has only 100 slots but 5,000 people apply, the school raises the cut off mark to reduce the competition.
- General performance of candidates: If candidates generally score high in JAMB for that year, universities increase their departmental cut off marks.
- Institutional standard: Some universities are naturally more competitive. Federal universities like University of Lagos (UNILAG), University of Ibadan (UI), and Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) usually set higher cut off marks.
Nigerian Universities Offering Physiology and Their Likely Cut Off Marks
While cut off marks change from year to year, below are some Nigerian universities that offer Physiology and their typical JAMB cut off ranges:
| University | Typical JAMB Cut Off Mark Range |
|---|---|
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | 200–220 |
| University of Ibadan (UI) | 200–220 |
| Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | 200–220 |
| University of Benin (UNIBEN) | 200–210 |
| University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) | 200–210 |
| Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) | 180–200 |
| University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) | 180–200 |
| Delta State University (DELSU) | 180–200 |
| Bayero University Kano (BUK) | 180–200 |
| Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria) | 200–210 |
Remember that these are just typical ranges. The actual departmental cut off marks are usually released by each school after JAMB results are out and post-UTME screenings are conducted.
Post-UTME Screening and Aggregate Score
It is important to understand that admission is not based on JAMB score alone. Most universities use a combination of:
- JAMB UTME score
- Post-UTME score
- O’level (WAEC/NECO) grades
These are combined to form an aggregate score, which ultimately determines whether you will be admitted.
For instance, a university may calculate aggregate score using:
- 50% from JAMB UTME
- 30% from Post-UTME
- 20% from O’level results
So even if you score above the JAMB cut off mark, you must also perform well in Post-UTME to secure admission.
Tips to Score Above the Cut Off Mark for Physiology
Here are practical tips to help you succeed:
- Start early preparation: Don’t wait until exam month to study. Create a study timetable and stick to it.
- Focus on JAMB subject combination: For Physiology, the correct subject combination usually includes: English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Make sure you master these subjects.
- Practice past questions: JAMB often repeats questions. Practicing past questions will help you understand the exam pattern.
- Aim higher than the cut off mark: Don’t target 180 if the cut off is 180. Aim for 250+ to increase your chances.
- Do well in Post-UTME: Many students pass JAMB but fail Post-UTME. Treat it as seriously as JAMB.
- Work on your O’level grades: Strong grades in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and English can boost your aggregate score.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the JAMB cut off mark for Physiology in Nigeria?
The general range is between 180–220 depending on the university. Some schools may go higher if the competition is tough.
2. Can I study Physiology with a JAMB score of 170?
It may be difficult because most universities set 180 or above for Physiology. However, you can apply to less competitive schools or consider related courses.
3. Which universities accept 180 for Physiology?
Some universities like UNIZIK, UNIPORT, DELSU, and BUK sometimes accept 180 for Physiology, but admission is still competitive.
4. Is JAMB cut off mark enough to guarantee admission?
No. You also need a good Post-UTME score and strong O’level results.
5. What if I didn’t meet the cut off mark?
You can consider:
- Applying for change of course to a less competitive program.
- Applying for change of institution.
- Waiting for the next JAMB exam and preparing harder.
