Looking to gain admission into a polytechnic with a low JAMB score? You’re not the only one in this situation. Many students in Nigeria worry when their scores aren’t high enough, but don’t stress—your goal is still achievable.
Getting into a polytechnic with a low JAMB score isn’t as difficult as it seems. The key is to understand how the admission process works and follow the right steps.
In this guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know: how to gain admission with a low JAMB score, the options available, strategies that work, and common mistakes to avoid.
Take your time to read carefully every detail here can increase your chances of success.
Can You Get Admission Into a Polytechnic With a Low JAMB Score?
Yes, gaining admission into a polytechnic with a low JAMB score is possible. Most polytechnics in Nigeria have more flexible admission requirements compared to universities.
While universities keep increasing their cut-off marks, polytechnics often focus on your Post-UTME performance, O’Level results, and course-specific requirements rather than just your JAMB score.
Some polytechnics even accept candidates with scores as low as 100, 120, or 130. Additionally, a few polytechnics allow admission without JAMB, using alternatives like IJMB or other certificate programs.
So, if you have a low JAMB score, don’t panic—there are still practical routes to secure admission without retaking the exam.
Common JAMB Cut-Off Marks for Polytechnics in Nigeria
Below are the jamb Cut-off marks for most federal and state polytechnics in Nigeria:
- 120 and above
- Some competitive departments use 150 and above
- Private polytechnics sometimes accept 100 and above. For more info visit the jamb portal
But there is good news:
Even if your score is below the required cut-off, you still have other ways to secure admission.
I will explain them in the next paragraph.
How to Gain Admission Into a Polytechnic With Low JAMB Score
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to gain admission into a Polytechnic with low Jamb score:
1. Choose a Polytechnic With a Lower Cut-Off Mark
Some polytechnics are highly competitive and require higher scores.
Others accept lower marks.
So it is better you choose a school where your score can match their requirement.
Examples of Polytechnics With Lower Cut-Off Marks
These polytechnics often accept candidates starting from 120:
- Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti
- Federal Polytechnic Offa
- Federal Polytechnic Nekede (some departments)
- Osun State Polytechnic
- Delta State Polytechnic
- Federal Polytechnic Bida
If you scored 120 or above, your chances are already high.
2. Apply for a Less Competitive Course
Courses like Engineering, Science Lab Tech, Mass Communication, and Business Administration can be competitive.
But courses like:
- Library Science
- Statistics
- Marketing
- Cooperative Economics
- Office Technology
- Public Administration
Hence you may consider accepting lower scores. Later, you can switch courses at 100 level if your school allows it.
3. Perform Very Well in Post-UTME
Your post-UTME score can save you even if your JAMB score is low.
Most polytechnics join your JAMB, O’level, and post-UTME to calculate your final score.
So you have to aim for:
- Good O’level grades
- Strong post-UTME performance
This can push you above the admission cut line.
4. Use the JAMB Change of Institution Option
If your score is too low for your first-choice school, simply use the JAMB change of institution option.
Choose:
- A far less competitive polytechnic
- A course with lower demand
This increases your chances immediately.
5. Consider Private Polytechnics
Private polytechnics are more easy to get in as they accept lower scores.
Examples include:
- Ibadan City Polytechnic
- Heritage Polytechnic
- Crown Polytechnic
- Dorben Polytechnic
They accept students who score 100 to 120, and admission is usually fast.
6. Use the School’s Certificate Programme Route
If your JAMB score is too low, some polytechnics offer an alternative pathway called Pre-ND or Certificate Programme.
How it works:
- You apply directly to the school
- Study for 1 year
- You are later upgraded to ND 1 automatically
This is one of the easiest ways to gain admission without depending on JAMB.
Other Smart Tips to Increase Your Chances
Here are extra strategies that work very well for students who want to learn how to gain admission into a Polytechnic with low Jamb score:
Submit all the required documents early
Most schools follow a first come, first serve rule. So ensure you apply in time.
Make sure your O’level grades are good
Credit passes in English and Mathematics increase your chances.
Avoid applying for highly competitive courses
If your score is low, choosing competitive courses will delay your admission.
Monitor your school’s website for screening updates
Students miss admission simply because they fail to check updates.
Don’t rely only on one option
Apply to more than one route if possible, polytechnic, certificate programme, or private schools.
Mistakes Students Make With Low JAMB Scores
Avoid these:
- Waiting too long before changing institutions.
- Choosing schools that are far above their score
- Applying for competitive courses
- Relying only on JAMB score
- Submitting incomplete documents
- Not checking school updates
Avoiding these mistakes alone can help you secure admission faster.
FAQs on How to Gain Admission I to Polytechnic with Low JAMB Score
Q1. Can I get admission into a polytechnic with 120?
Yes. Many federal and state polytechnics accept 120.
Q2. Can I get admission into a polytechnic without writing JAMB?
Yes, through certificate programmes, Pre-ND, or direct school admission.
Q3. Which polytechnic accepts the lowest score?
Some private polytechnics accept 100 and above.
Q4. Can I switch courses after gaining admission?
Yes, many polytechnics allow change of course in 100 level.
Q5. Is post-UTME important?
Yes. A high post-UTME score can help you gain admission even if your JAMB score is low.
Final Words
Having learned how to gain admission into a polytechnic with a low JAMB score, you can now see that it’s completely possible.
Thousands of students achieve this every year. The key is knowing your options and picking the path that fits your score.
If your JAMB score is low, here’s what you can do:
-
Choose a polytechnic with a lower cut-off
-
Apply for a less competitive course
-
Excel in Post-UTME
-
Consider a change of institution if needed
-
Explore private or certificate programs
Remember, your JAMB score doesn’t define your future, your choices and actions do. Stay focused, plan smart, and keep pushing forward. Admission is within your reach if you approach it wisely.
