The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has warned that a high score in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) no longer guarantees admission to Nigerian universities or polytechnics. This statement comes amid growing concerns from parents and students about the fairness and transparency of the university admission process.
In a statement issued on Sunday, February 9, 2025, JAMB’s spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, clarified that admission decisions are determined by more than just UTME performance. The board explained that multiple factors contribute to the final selection, including candidates’ O’level results, UTME scores, and post-UTME assessments.
“A high UTME score alone does not guarantee admission. Universities evaluate candidates based on several factors, including their academic merit, catchment area, and quotas for Educationally Less Developed States (ELDS),” Benjamin stated.
The statement comes in response to increasing frustration among prospective students and their parents, who allege that universities are rejecting applicants with seemingly impressive UTME scores.
One such case involves the University of Calabar, where a parent, Godwin Nsan, accused the institution of unfairly rejecting his son despite his UTME score of 201. JAMB’s investigation, however, found that the candidate had an aggregate score of just 34 percent, which was far below the university’s required minimum cut-off score of 55 percent for merit-based admissions.
“In the case of the University of Calabar, the candidate’s score did not meet the university’s minimum threshold for admission. The complaint was thoroughly investigated and found to be unsubstantiated,” JAMB explained.
Similarly, a candidate who scored 345 in the UTME was rejected by the University of Jos (UniJos), despite his high score. Following JAMB’s review, it was revealed that the candidate ranked 86th in the institution’s merit list, while only 68 candidates were eligible for admission under the merit category. The candidate’s father later acknowledged the explanation and apologized for his earlier complaint.
“UTME scores alone cannot determine a candidate’s rank in the university admission process. For example, a candidate with a UTME score of 345 could still rank low due to the competitive nature of the admissions process,” JAMB clarified.
Benjamin further noted that universities apply a holistic approach in their selection process, considering factors such as the number of available slots and the overall academic performance of applicants.
“Admission is highly competitive, and each institution must adhere to a carefully structured ranking process,” he continued. “Parents and candidates need to understand this broader selection framework and avoid making assumptions based solely on UTME results.”
JAMB also urged students to direct any concerns or complaints through the appropriate channels, emphasizing that candidates can challenge admission decisions using its official “ticketing platform” for inquiries and appeals. This platform ensures that each case is reviewed transparently and efficiently.
As part of its commitment to fairness, JAMB reminded stakeholders that it takes a strong stance against admission irregularities. The board disclosed that a senior university official is currently being prosecuted for alleged involvement in fraudulent admission practices, while four other individuals remain under investigation.
“JAMB is committed to ensuring a transparent, merit-based admission process,” Benjamin said. “We continue to uphold a zero-tolerance policy against irregularities, and anyone found culpable will face the full wrath of the law.”
In light of these developments, the board’s message to students and parents is clear: securing admission into Nigerian universities is no longer simply about scoring high marks on the UTME. Candidates must be prepared to meet the diverse and rigorous criteria that universities employ to select students for various academic programs.
Meanwhile, many students and parents remain anxious, struggling to come to terms with the complexities of the university admission process. Some have called for greater clarity from both JAMB and the universities, questioning the fairness of the ranking systems and the application of state quotas.
“It is disappointing to see so many bright students being turned away despite scoring well on the UTME,” said a parent who preferred to remain anonymous. “If the system is meant to be based on merit, why does it feel like it’s more about luck and connections?”
JAMB’s latest statement is expected to stir further debate on the issue of university admissions in Nigeria. While the board has made efforts to clarify the situation, the controversy highlights the need for ongoing reforms in the country’s education sector.
