📅 Last Updated: February 26, 2026
A JAMB score of 290 is a near-perfect result, placing you in approximately the 93-96% of all candidates. Your options are top 5%. Here is the complete guide to universities and courses accessible with 290.
Last Updated: February 2025 | Author: Mr. Ibrahim Musa
What a Score of 290 Means
With 290 in JAMB, you can gain admission into any course at any institution in Nigeria. This guide breaks down exactly which institutions and courses are realistic for you.
- JAMB minimum cut-off: 140 (federal), 100 (state/private) — you clear both comfortably
- Your competition level: You are competing with 93-96% of all UTME candidates
- POST-UTME importance: With 290, POST-UTME performance is important — aim for 65%+ to strengthen your aggregate
Federal Universities Accessible With 290
| University | General Cut-Off | You Qualify? | Exceptions / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| UNILAG University of Lagos |
200 | ✅ Yes | ✅ All courses |
| UI University of Ibadan |
200 | ✅ Yes | ✅ All courses |
| OAU Obafemi Awolowo University |
200 | ✅ Yes | ✅ All courses |
| UNIBEN University of Benin |
200 | ✅ Yes | ✅ All courses |
| UNN University of Nigeria Nsukka |
200 | ✅ Yes | ✅ All courses |
| ABU Ahmadu Bello University |
200 | ✅ Yes | ✅ All courses |
| UNILORIN University of Ilorin |
200 | ✅ Yes | ✅ All courses |
| UNIPORT University of Port Harcourt |
200 | ✅ Yes | ✅ All courses |
| UNICAL University of Calabar |
200 | ✅ Yes | ✅ All courses |
| UNIJOS University of Jos |
200 | ✅ Yes | ✅ All courses |
| FUTA Federal University of Technology Akure |
180 | ✅ Yes | Medicine (N/A+) |
| BUK Bayero University Kano |
180 | ✅ Yes | ✅ All courses |
| FUTMINNA Federal University of Technology Minna |
180 | ✅ Yes | Medicine (N/A+) |
State Universities
With a score of 290, you qualify for the general cut-off at virtually all state universities. State universities generally have lower cut-offs (180–200 for general admission) and are a strong option.
All state universities accept 290 for general admission. Even competitive courses like Medicine are accessible at EKSU (230 cut-off), AAU Ekpoma (240), and DELSU (240) if your score is close.
Private Universities
Private universities typically accept lower JAMB scores (sometimes as low as 120–150). With 290, you qualify for admission at every accredited private university in Nigeria, including Covenant University, Babcock, Landmark, Bowen, and others.
Medicine With 290 in JAMB
Medicine is accessible at most universities with 290. You are in a very strong position.
Law With 290 in JAMB
Law is accessible everywhere with this score.
Best Strategy for Candidates With 290
- Know your aggregate formula: JAMB score alone is not enough — use the WizAdmissions Aggregate Calculator to see your real admission chances
- Prepare for POST-UTME: This is where admissions are won or lost. Study past questions for your target universities
- Apply to multiple universities: Put your most realistic option as first choice, and a safe option as second
- Consider O’Level combination: Strong WAEC/NECO results improve your aggregate significantly at many universities
Score Comparison
- Universities that accept 280 in JAMB — one step below
- Universities that accept 300 in JAMB — one step above
- How to calculate your JAMB aggregate score
- JAMB subject combinations for all courses
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get into a federal university with 290 in JAMB?
Yes. With 290, you meet the general cut-off for most federal universities (200). Your POST-UTME performance and O-Level results will determine the specific course and department.
Is 290 a good JAMB score?
290 is a near-perfect JAMB score. It is competitive and gives you access to most courses at most universities in Nigeria.
What courses can I study with 290?
With 290, you can study virtually any course in Nigeria, including Medicine, Law, Pharmacy, and Engineering at competitive universities.
🎯 Know Your Exact Admission Chances
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