Can I Get Admission with a 140 JAMB Score?

When it comes to gaining admission into a Nigerian university, one of the first questions on a student’s mind is often about their JAMB score. You might be wondering, “Can I get admission with a 140 JAMB score?” Well, the answer is not straightforward, but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! This article dives deep into what a JAMB score of 140 means for your admission chances, the schools that accept it, and how you can still make it to your desired institution.

The Weight of Your JAMB Score

Let’s face it, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) score is a significant part of your admission journey in Nigeria. Whether you like it or not, your JAMB score largely influences where and what you can study. A score of 140 may seem low, especially considering that most competitive courses demand higher scores. But before you start panicking or feeling hopeless, you need to know that 140 doesn’t spell the end of your academic aspirations.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through the possibilities that exist for candidates with a JAMB score of 140. Trust me, it’s not all gloom and doom. With the right approach and knowledge, you can still get into a good school. So, let’s get into it!

What Does a 140 JAMB Score Mean?

First, let’s break it down. Scoring 140 in JAMB means that out of a total of 400, you were able to gather 140 points. Now, while this score isn’t exactly on the high side, it also isn’t the lowest score ever. For some institutions and courses, it might be the minimum required score for admission. However, for more competitive institutions or courses like Medicine, Law, or Engineering, a score of 140 might not cut it.

But here’s the good news: Nigeria has a wide range of institutions with different cut-off marks, and some of them accept scores as low as 140. So, what are your options?

Admission Options with a 140 JAMB Score

When you score 140 in JAMB, you might not be eligible for top-tier federal universities or high-demand courses, but several options are still available. You can look into:

• Polytechnics: Polytechnics are known for their flexible admission processes. With a score of 140, you stand a solid chance of getting admission into a reputable polytechnic.
• Colleges of Education: If you’re open to teaching or educational courses, many Colleges of Education accept candidates with JAMB scores around 140.
• State Universities: Some state universities, particularly less competitive ones, may consider candidates with a 140 score, especially for less competitive courses.
• Private Universities: If you have the financial means, private universities can be a great alternative. Many private universities are flexible with their cut-off marks and may accept a score of 140.

List of Schools that Accept a 140 JAMB Score

Here’s a list of institutions where you have a fighting chance of admission with a 140 JAMB score:

1. Polytechnics

Polytechnics are generally more flexible in their admission processes. Some of the polytechnics that might accept a 140 JAMB score include:

• Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH)
• Kaduna Polytechnic
• Federal Polytechnic Ilaro
• Federal Polytechnic Offa

These schools offer a variety of courses and usually have lower cut-off marks compared to universities.

2. Colleges of Education

If you have a passion for teaching, colleges of education could be a great option. Some of the colleges that accept lower JAMB scores include:

• Federal College of Education (FCE), Zaria
• Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education, Lagos
• College of Education, Akwanga

3. Private Universities

Private universities tend to have more flexible admission requirements, and some may accept a 140 JAMB score. Examples include:

• Achievers University, Owo
• Wellspring University, Benin City
• Madonna University

These universities offer excellent academic facilities and flexible admission criteria, but they can be more expensive than public institutions.

Courses You Can Study with a 140 JAMB Score

With a score of 140, you might have to be flexible with your course choice. Competitive courses like Medicine, Law, and Engineering may be off the table. However, several less competitive courses remain available. Here are some courses you can consider:

• Business Administration
• Mass Communication
• Agricultural Science
• Education-related courses
• Arts and Humanities courses
• Social Sciences

Being open to less competitive courses increases your chances of getting admitted, even with a 140 JAMB score.

What to Do If You Want a University Admission

If you’re set on attending a university and your score of 140 seems like an obstacle, don’t give up just yet. You can still increase your chances by considering the following strategies:

1. Apply for Less Competitive Universities

The simple truth is that some universities are less competitive than others. Federal universities like the University of Ibadan or the University of Lagos might not accept a 140 score, but state universities or newly established federal universities might. Universities like Benue State University or Kogi State University might be more flexible with their cut-off marks.

2. Change of Institution

Did you initially apply to a very competitive university? Consider changing to a less competitive institution. JAMB offers the option to change your institution if you believe your initial choice requires a higher score. Opt for a school where your 140 JAMB score will be more competitive.

3. Consider a Pre-degree or Foundation Programme

Another option is to consider pre-degree or foundation programmes offered by many universities. These programmes allow you to improve your academic credentials and secure direct admission into 100-level courses the following year.

4. Apply for Supplementary Admission

Some universities offer supplementary admission for candidates who did not meet the cut-off for their desired courses but can still gain admission into other less competitive courses. This could be an excellent route to gaining university admission.

Does the Course You Choose Matter?

Absolutely! Your choice of course plays a significant role in determining whether your score of 140 can get you admitted. Courses like Medicine, Pharmacy, and Engineering have high cut-off marks and competition is stiff. If you’ve scored 140, you’ll need to adjust your expectations and apply for courses with lower demand. Educational courses, arts, and humanities are good examples of courses that may have lower cut-off marks in certain institutions.

Other Factors That Can Affect Your Admission Chances

Your JAMB score is important, but it’s not the only factor that will determine whether you get admitted. Here are other critical elements that can influence your admission:

1. Post-UTME Performance

Many institutions conduct Post-UTME screening exercises. A good performance in Post-UTME can significantly boost your chances, even if your JAMB score is on the low side.

2. O’Level Results

Your O’Level (WAEC/NECO) grades can either enhance or hinder your chances. Having good grades, especially in core subjects, can improve your overall aggregate score.

3. Catchment Area

Some universities give preference to candidates from certain geographical areas (catchment areas). This can sometimes lower the required cut-off mark for candidates from those areas.

4. Admission Quotas

Universities and polytechnics have admission quotas based on factors such as course popularity, government policies, and institutional capacity. If a course has fewer applicants, the cut-off may be lower.

Conclusion

No, scoring 140 in JAMB is not the end of the road! While you might not get into the most competitive courses or universities, you still have plenty of options. You can explore polytechnics, colleges of education, private universities, or even less competitive state universities. Remember, it’s not about where you start but where you finish. With hard work, determination, and a little flexibility, you can still achieve your academic dreams.

FAQs

Can I study Medicine with a 140 JAMB score?

Unfortunately, no. Medicine is a highly competitive course that requires a much higher JAMB score, often around 280 or above.

Can I gain admission into a polytechnic with 140?

Yes! Polytechnics generally have lower cut-off marks, and a score of 140 could qualify you for admission into several polytechnics.

Should I change my institution if I scored 140?

If your current institution has a higher cut-off mark, it may be wise to consider changing to a less competitive institution where your score will be accepted.

Can I gain admission with 140 without Post-UTME?

Some institutions offer admission based solely on JAMB scores, but many require Post-UTME screening. Check the admission policies of your desired school.

Are there scholarships for students with 140 JAMB scores?

Scholarships are often based on academic performance, and 140 may not meet the criteria for most merit-based scholarships. However, need-based scholarships may still be available depending on the institution.