The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released the official cut-off marks for the 2026/2027 academic session, sparking outrage among Nigerians, particularly regarding the minimum score set for polytechnics. On Monday, May 11, 2026, JAMB announced that the Heads of Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria had unanimously agreed on the minimum admissible scores for admissions into various institutions. Universities and Colleges of Nursing were set at 150, while polytechnics were given a cut-off mark of 100.
Reactions to the Polytechnic Cut-off Mark
Many Nigerians expressed displeasure over the polytechnic cut-off mark, arguing that it is excessively low compared to previous years. An X influencer, @_VALKlNG, quoted JAMB's tweet and reacted with a profanity-laced expression of disbelief. Other social media users echoed similar sentiments, with @caroline__ao sarcastically suggesting that JAMB should just make entry free, while @1mrchrys blamed the reliance on prayers and miracles for students' poor performance.
Concerns About Education Standards
Several users criticized the decision for lowering academic standards. @IconSenator described the cut-off mark as a sign of mediocrity, warning that it would produce half-baked graduates. @dele_super57 noted that in the past, a score below 190 would send students to polytechnics, while @olammie_de questioned whether everyone should be admitted, citing overcrowded schools. @TaiwoolamideEm2 and @softlifeprince_ also expressed concerns about the quality of education and the country's misplaced priorities.
JAMB Announces Admission Deadline
In related news, JAMB has set a deadline for university admissions. During the same policy meeting, it was resolved that public universities must complete admissions by October 31, 2026, while private universities have until November 30, 2026. This decision aims to streamline the admission process across the country.
