The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has clarified that achieving a high score in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) does not guarantee admission into Nigerian universities.Fabian Benjamin, JAMB’s spokesperson, made this statement on Sunday, February 9, 2025, emphasizing that multiple factors influence admission decisions, including candidates’ O’level results, UTME scores, and performance in post-UTME assessments.“A high UTME score by itself does not ensure admission. Universities evaluate various criteria, including merit-based ranking, geographical catchment areas, and quotas for Educationally Less Developed States (ELDS),” the statement explained.
This announcement comes amid increasing concerns from candidates and parents who feel universities are rejecting students despite their impressive UTME scores.
To illustrate, JAMB responded to a complaint from a parent, Godwin Nsan, who alleged that the University of Calabar unfairly denied his son admission.
JAMB’s investigation found that even though the candidate scored 201 in UTME, his overall aggregate was only 34 percent, which fell short of the university’s minimum required scores of 55 percent for merit admissions and 35 percent for other categories.Another case involved a candidate with a UTME score of 345 who claimed the University of Jos (UniJos) denied him admission.
After reviewing the situation at JAMB’s headquarters, it was discovered that this candidate was ranked 86th, while the university could only accept 68 students based on merit. Upon receiving this information, the candidate’s father recognized the merits of the process and expressed his apologies.JAMB pointed out that in some universities, a UTME score of 345 might rank a candidate as low as 300, contingent on the institution’s capacity and competitive landscape.
The board urged parents and candidates to grasp the comprehensive nature of the admission process instead of presuming that a high UTME score guarantees acceptance at their chosen universities.“Admission is competitive, and institutions must follow a structured ranking process. We encourage parents to seek clarification through appropriate channels rather than making unsubstantiated claims,” said JAMB.
They also reminded candidates that they could contest admission decisions through their official ‘ticketing platform’ for inquiries and appeals.
Additionally, JAMB revealed that a senior university official is currently facing prosecution for allegations related to admissions, with four others under investigation.
The board reaffirmed its strict stance against admission irregularities and assured the public of its dedication to a transparent and equitable selection process, while taking action against any institution or individual engaged in unethical practices.
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