Universities with the Lowest Cut Off Mark for Law in Nigeria 2025/2026: Admission Requirements & Eligibility

Aspiring to study law in Nigeria in 2025? Understanding the cut-off marks for various universities is a crucial first step. This article provides a detailed overview of universities with relatively lower cut-off marks for law programs, general admission requirements, and essential tips to enhance your chances of securing admission.

Understanding the JAMB Cut-Off Mark

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) conducts the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), a crucial entrance exam for students seeking admission into Nigerian higher institutions. The JAMB cut-off mark is the minimum score required for consideration into a specific course at a university. For law, a traditionally competitive course, the cut-off mark is generally higher than other programs.

The general cut-off mark for universities was set at 140 by JAMB. However, because law is a highly competitive program, most universities have a higher internal cut-off mark that ranges from 200-250.

Factors Influencing Cut-Off Marks

Several factors influence the cut-off marks for law programs in Nigerian universities:

• Performance of Candidates: Overall performance in the UTME can affect the cut-off mark. If many candidates score high, the cut-off mark may increase.
• Number of Available Slots: Limited slots in a university’s law program can drive up the cut-off mark due to increased competition.
• University’s Reputation: More prestigious universities often have higher cut-off marks due to higher application rates.
• Catchment Area: Some universities may lower cut-off marks for candidates from their catchment area.
• ELDS (Educationally Less Developed States): Candidates from ELDS may also benefit from lower cut-off marks.

See Also: 9 Compulsory WAEC Subjects For Law In Nigeria

General Requirements for Studying Law

Here are the general requirements for studying law in Nigerian Universities.

1. Age: Candidates must be at least 16 years old by October 1st of the admission year.
2. O’Level Results: A minimum of five credits in WAEC/NECO/NABTEB, including English Language, Literature in English, Mathematics, and any other two relevant subjects. Some universities may not require Mathematics.
3. JAMB Score: A competitive JAMB score, usually 200 or higher, but it varies depending on the university.
4. Post-UTME Screening: Many universities conduct post-UTME screening, involving written exams or interviews.

JAMB Subject Combination for Law

The correct JAMB subject combination is crucial for admission. It typically includes:

1. English Language (Compulsory)
2. Literature in English
3. Government or History
4. Any other relevant Arts or Social Science subject (e.g., CRS/IRS, Economics, or Civic Education)

Universities with Relatively Lower Cut-Off Marks

While cut-off marks can change yearly, some universities are known for relatively lower requirements. Note that it’s essential to verify the specific cut-off marks for the 2025 academic year directly from the institutions.

Here are some universities that may be of interest if you obtained a modest JAMB score but aren’t prepared to give up on your legal aspirations:

• Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS): This Federal University is located in Sokoto, Sokoto State. The minimum acceptable score is about 190-200.
• National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN): This is a University by Correspondence that is located nationwide. The minimum acceptable score is about 180 .
• Kogi State University (KSU), Anyigba: Now known as Prince Abubakar Audu University, KSU offers a law program with a cut-off mark usually between 180 and 200.
• Yobe State University, Damaturu: This State University’s cut-off mark is usually somewhere between 180 and 200.
• Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko: This university is known to have more accessible cut-off marks for law, which could range between 200 and 250.
• University of Jos: This university is known to have more accessible cut-off marks for law, which could range between 200 and 250.
• Bauchi State University: With a JAMB score of 220 you can get admitted into the law faculty of Bauchi State University.
• Babcock University: With a JAMB score of 230, you can study law at Babcock University.

Achieving a High Score in JAMB

Given the competitiveness of law programs, aiming for a high JAMB score is crucial. Here are some tips:

1. Start Early: Begin preparing well in advance to cover the syllabus adequately.
2. Know the Syllabus: Understand the JAMB syllabus for each subject and focus on key topics.
3. Use Recommended Textbooks: Study with recommended textbooks and past questions to familiarize yourself with the exam format.
4. Practice Regularly: Solve past questions and take mock exams to assess your preparation level.
5. Seek Guidance: Consult teachers, mentors, or educational counselors for guidance and support.
6. Stay Updated: Keep abreast of any changes in JAMB policies or cut-off marks.

What to Do If Your JAMB Score Is Below the Expected Cut-off Mark?

If your JAMB score is below the cut-off mark for your desired universities, consider these options:

1. Change of Institution/Course: Apply for a change of institution or course to universities or programs with lower cut-off marks.
2. Consider Alternative Programs: Explore related programs such as paralegal studies, political science, or international relations.
3. Retake JAMB: Prepare more thoroughly and retake JAMB the following year to improve your score.
4. Direct Entry: If you have advanced qualifications like A-levels or a National Diploma, consider applying through Direct Entry, which allows you to skip the first year.

Direct Entry Requirements for Law

Direct Entry is an option for candidates with advanced qualifications :

1. A-Level Passes: At least two A-level passes in subjects related to Law, like Government, Literature in English, or History.
2. National Diploma (ND): A National Diploma with good grades from a recognized institution in a related field.
3. Other Qualifications: Some universities accept other qualifications such as IJMB or NCE.

Essential Skills and Qualities for Law Students

Beyond academic qualifications, certain skills and qualities can contribute to success in law school:

• Critical Thinking: The ability to analyze complex legal issues and construct logical arguments.
• Strong Communication Skills: Effective written and oral communication to articulate legal concepts and present cases.
• Research Skills: Proficiency in legal research to gather relevant information and precedents.
• Analytical Skills: The capacity to dissect legal documents and identify key elements.
• Ethical Awareness: A strong sense of ethics and integrity to uphold the principles of justice.

List of Universities Offering Law in Nigeria

Here’s a list of Universities Offering Law in Nigeria:

• Federal Universities
  • Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria)
  • Bayero University, Kano (BUK)
  • Federal University Oye Ekiti (FUOYE)
  • Federal University Lokoja (FULOKOJA)
  • Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
  • Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
  • University of Abuja (UNIABUJA)
  • University of Benin (UNIBEN)
  • University of Calabar (UNICAL)
  • University of Ibadan (UI)
  • University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
  • University of Jos (UNIJOS)
  • University of Lagos (UNILAG)
  • University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
  • University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
  • University of Portharcourt (UNIPORT)
  • University of Uyo (UNIUYO)
  • Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (UDUS)
• State Universities
  • Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko
  • Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma
  • Anambra State University, Uli
  • Bauchi State University, Gadau, Bauchi State
  • Benue State University, Makurdi
  • Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti
  • Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu
  • Imo State University, Owerri
  • Kogi State University, Anyigba
  • Nasarawa State University, Keffi
  • Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island
  • Osun State University, Osogbo
  • Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Port Harcourt
  • Umaru Musa Yaradua University, Katsina
  • Yobe State University, Damaturu
• Private Universities
  • Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State
  • Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti
  • Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo
  • Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin
  • Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo
  • Baze University, FCT, Abuja
  • Benson Idahosa University, Benin City
  • Bowen University, Iwo
  • Crescent University, Abeokuta
  • Igbinedion University, Okada, Benin City
  • Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji
  • Lead City University, Ibadan
  • Nigeria Turkish Nile University, Abuja
  • Renaissance University, Ojiagu-Agbani, Enugu

Read Also: UNILORIN JAMB Cut-Off Mark for All Courses 2025/2026 Academic Session

Conclusion

Securing admission to study law in Nigeria requires careful planning and preparation. While aiming for high scores in JAMB and meeting specific university requirements are essential, understanding the landscape of universities with relatively lower cut-off marks can broaden your options. Remember to stay informed, prepare diligently, and explore all available pathways to achieve your legal aspirations.