When the 2025 UTME results were released, thousands of Nigerian students were left in shock. Scores were lower than expected, and with little explanation from JAMB, many who had high hopes for university admission are now stuck in limbo.
But the story doesn’t end at 140. While top universities still demand high scores, a growing number of institutions are lowering cutoffs—and offering students a lifeline.
This year’s UTME felt different. Despite weeks of preparation, many students received scores below 180. Technical issues during the exams have been cited, but that’s little comfort to candidates who now face limited admission options. “I gave it my best,” said 17-year-old Mariam, who scored 146. “Now my parents are asking if I’ll repeat the exam next year.”
Highly sought-after schools like UNILAG and UI still maintain high cutoffs. But for students like Mariam, not all hope is lost.
New Admission Windows
Several universities - federal, state, and private have updated their admission policies and are accepting UTME scores starting from 140. These institutions may not make headlines, but they offer accredited programs, experienced faculty, and real opportunities.Here are some of the universities currently accepting scores from 140 and above:
- Federal University, Birnin Kebbi (FUBK)
- Federal University, Dutse (FUD)
- Federal University, Gusau (FUGUS)
- Federal University, Gashua (FUGA)
- Federal University, Lafia (FULAFIA)
- Federal University, Kashere (FUKASHERE)
- Federal University, Wukari (FUWUKARI)
- University of Calabar (UNICAL)
- Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU)
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- Adamawa State University
- Taraba State University
- Bauchi State University
- Nasarawa State University, Keffi
- Kogi State University
- Kebbi State University of Science and Technology
- Benue State University
- Gombe State University
- Yusuf Maitama Sule University, Kano
Private universities also offering admission with similar scores include:
- Nile University of Nigeria
- Al-Hikmah University
- Anchor University
- Bingham University
- Baze University
- Crescent University
- Edusoko University
- Greenfield University
- Kings University
- Lead City University
- Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN)
- Pan-Atlantic University
- Renaissance University
- Ritman University
- Southwestern University
- Summit University
- Tansian University
- Veritas University
The impact of a disappointing UTME result runs deeper than academics. In many homes, it’s a source of shame or quiet disappointment. Social media hasn’t helped either, turning exam results into public scoreboards.
“There’s this pressure to get into the ‘right’ university,” says Uchenna, an education counsellor in Lagos. “But the truth is, what happens after school matters more.”
Instead of waiting another year or switching career paths entirely, students are being encouraged to explore open options and apply to universities with more flexible requirements. With deadlines approaching, the key is to act quickly, confirm accreditation, and select courses aligned with long-term goals.
The 2025 UTME may have closed some doors, but others are wide open. A lower score isn’t the end of a dream—it’s just a nudge toward a different route. Nigeria’s educational system still has room to grow, but in the meantime, institutions offering 140+ admission scores are giving students what they need most: a second chance.
