If you scored 160 in JAMB, your options are limited at most public universities but far from hopeless. While top federal universities and most state universities set their cut-offs above 160, several private universities and a few newer institutions accept this score. This guide shows you every available path.
Last Updated: February 2025 | Author: Mr. Ibrahim Musa
Is 160 a Passing Score in JAMB?
The JAMB general cut-off for universities is 140, so 160 is above the minimum. However, 160 is below the institutional cut-off for most established universities (180–200). Your best options are private universities and some polytechnics.
Private Universities That Accept 160
Almost all private universities accept 160. Here are some of the most notable:
| University | State | Cut-Off | Est. Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Babcock University | Ogun | 160 | ₦600K – ₦1.2M |
| ABUAD | Ekiti | 160 | ₦800K – ₦2M |
| Lead City University | Oyo | 140 | ₦400K – ₦800K |
| Bowen University | Osun | 140 | ₦400K – ₦900K |
| Caleb University | Lagos | 140 | ₦500K – ₦1M |
| Bells University | Ogun | 140 | ₦400K – ₦700K |
| Redeemer’s University | Osun | 160 | ₦500K – ₦1M |
| Achievers University | Ondo | 140 | ₦300K – ₦600K |
| Joseph Ayo Babalola University | Osun | 140 | ₦300K – ₦500K |
| Oduduwa University | Osun | 140 | ₦200K – ₦500K |
| Wesley University | Ondo | 140 | ₦250K – ₦500K |
| Adeleke University | Osun | 140 | ₦300K – ₦600K |
Polytechnics That Accept 160
If university is not immediately possible, polytechnics offer ND (National Diploma) and HND programmes with lower entry requirements:
| Polytechnic | State | JAMB Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| YABATECH | Lagos | 120+ |
| Federal Polytechnic Nekede | Imo | 120+ |
| Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti | Ekiti | 120+ |
| Auchi Polytechnic | Edo | 120+ |
| Kaduna Polytechnic | Kaduna | 120+ |
Courses Available at 160
| Course | Private Uni | Polytechnic |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | 🟢 Yes | 🟢 Yes (as ND) |
| Accounting | 🟢 Yes | 🟢 Yes |
| Business Admin | 🟢 Yes | 🟢 Yes |
| Mass Communication | 🟢 Yes | 🟢 Yes |
| Engineering | 🟢 Some | 🟢 Yes (as ND) |
| Medicine | 🔴 Unlikely | ❌ Not offered |
| Law | 🟡 Some | ❌ Not offered |
What to Do With a Score of 160
- Consider private universities: Many offer quality education, though tuition is higher
- Apply to polytechnics: Get an ND, then transfer to university via Direct Entry
- Rewrite JAMB: If your budget does not allow private university fees, invest in better preparation and aim for 200+ next time
- Consider Colleges of Education: NCE programmes accept very low JAMB scores and you can later transfer to university
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get into any federal university with 160?
It is very unlikely. The lowest federal university cut-offs are 180. A few federal polytechnics accept 120+, but federal universities require at least 180.
Is rewriting JAMB better than going to a private university?
It depends on your finances and timeline. If you can afford a private university and want to start immediately, it is a valid option. If budget is tight, rewriting JAMB to aim for 200+ opens more affordable public university doors.