New rulings that will govern admission to higher institutions for the 2026 academic year have been announced by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
Education stakeholders examined cut-off scores, admission deadlines, and general guidelines for admission to universities, polytechnics, and colleges nationwide during its annual policy conference on Monday, May 11, where the resolutions were made.
The rulings established a minimum score of 150 for university entrance. Colleges of Nursing are subject to the same standard. The minimum cut-off score for polytechnics is set at 100. All colleges are supposed to use these numbers as a guide for their annual admissions procedures.
Polytechnics, monotechnics, and colleges of education have until December 31, 2026, while public universities must finish admissions by October 31 and private institutions by November 30.
No JAMB for NCE, ND
The Minister of Education declared that applicants wishing to enroll in Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) programs with a minimum of four credit passes will no longer need to take the UTME, a significant change intended to increase access to teacher education.
Dr. Alausa revealed that candidates applying for National Diploma programs in non-technology agricultural and agriculture-related courses are also covered by the policy, which goes into force with the 2026–2027 admission cycle.
LASU remains most sought university in Nigeria
According to JAMB, Lagos State University, LASU, Ojo, has maintained its status as Nigeria’s most sought-after university with 84,326 applicants.
The university had the highest application from candidates last year as well.
