JAMB Cut Off Mark for Pharmacy 2025/2026 For All Universities

Pharmacy is one of the most competitive health science courses in Nigerian universities. Every year, thousands of candidates apply to study Pharmacy (B.Pharm or Pharm.D), but only a limited number gain admission due to strict requirements and high competition.

If you are planning to study Pharmacy in the 2025/2026 academic session, understanding the official JAMB cut-off mark for Pharmacy, departmental expectations, and the screening process is crucial. This article provides a detailed and up-to-date guide on the Pharmacy cut-off mark, admission requirements, university-specific expectations, and practical tips to improve your chances.

What Is a JAMB Cut-Off Mark?

A JAMB cut-off mark is the minimum UTME score a candidate must obtain to be eligible for admission into a particular course or institution. JAMB sets a general minimum benchmark, while universities are allowed to raise their departmental cut-off marks based on competition and available slots.

For Pharmacy, the cut-off mark is usually higher than that of many other courses because it is a professional and highly competitive program.
JAMB Subject Combination for Pharmacy

Official JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Pharmacy 2025/2026

For the 2025/2026 academic session, the general JAMB cut-off mark for Pharmacy is:

160 and above

This means:

• Candidates who score below 160 are not eligible to apply for Pharmacy.

• Scoring 160 or above only qualifies you for screening; it does not guarantee admission.

In practice, most universities require much higher scores due to intense competition.

University Cut-Off Mark Ranges for Pharmacy

Different categories of universities set different cut-off expectations for Pharmacy. Below is a realistic breakdown:

Federal Universities

Federal universities offering Pharmacy are usually the most competitive.

• Typical cut-off range: 200 – 260

• Highly competitive schools may require 240+

State Universities

State universities also experience strong competition, though slightly lower than federal institutions.

• Typical cut-off range: 180 – 230

Private Universities

Private universities tend to have more flexible cut-off marks but still maintain academic standards.

• Typical cut-off range: 160 – 180

Candidates are advised to aim well above the minimum to remain competitive.

Why Pharmacy Cut-Off Marks Are High

Several factors contribute to the high cut-off marks for Pharmacy:

• Limited admission slots approved by regulatory bodies

• High number of applicants nationwide

• The professional nature of the course

• Strict accreditation standards

• High academic demands of the program

Because of these factors, universities raise cut-off marks to admit only the most qualified candidates.

Does Meeting the Cut-Off Mark Guarantee Admission?

No. Meeting the cut-off mark does not automatically guarantee admission. It only makes you eligible to participate in the university’s screening process.

Final admission is usually based on:

• UTME score

• O’Level grades

• Post-UTME or screening performance

• Catchment area or institutional policies

• Number of available slots

Strong performance across all criteria is required for admission into Pharmacy.

Departmental Cut-Off Mark for Pharmacy

Some universities announce departmental cut-off marks after screening. For Pharmacy, this mark is often higher than the general institutional cut-off.

For example:

• A university with a general cut-off of 160 may set Pharmacy at 220 or higher

• Departmental cut-off marks may vary yearly depending on performance trends

Candidates should always monitor official admission updates from their chosen institutions.

Post-UTME and Screening for Pharmacy

After UTME results are released, candidates who meet the cut-off mark are invited for screening or Post-UTME.

Screening Methods May Include:

• Written Post-UTME examination

• Online O’Level result upload

• UTME and O’Level score aggregation

• Physical document verification

Documents Commonly Required:

• JAMB UTME result slip

• O’Level certificates or statements

• Birth certificate or age declaration

• Passport photographs

Strong performance during screening significantly improves admission chances.

O’Level Requirements for Pharmacy

In addition to meeting the cut-off mark, candidates must meet O-Level requirements.

Most universities require:

• Five (5) credit passes in not more than two sittings

• Compulsory subjects:

  • English Language

  • Mathematics

  • Chemistry

  • Biology

  • Physics

Candidates without these subjects are usually disqualified regardless of their UTME scores.

How to Increase Your Chances of Studying Pharmacy

1. Aim Far Above the Minimum Cut Off

A UTME score of 220 or higher significantly improves your chances, especially in federal universities.

2. Get Strong O’Level Grades

High grades (A–C) may be weighted during screening and score aggregation.

3. Prepare for Post-UTME

Study past questions and understand your school’s screening format.

4. Apply Strategically

Consider a mix of federal, state, and private universities.

5. Monitor Admission Platforms

Regularly check JAMB CAPS and your institution’s admission portal.

Alternative Pathways if You Miss the Cut-Off Mark

If you do not meet the Pharmacy cut-off mark, consider alternative routes such as:

• Changing course to a related science program

• Applying to private universities with lower cut-off marks

• Foundation or pre-degree programs (where available)

These options may later provide opportunities for internal transfer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the JAMB cut-off mark for Pharmacy 2025/2026?

The general JAMB cut-off mark is 160, but most universities require much higher scores.

Can I study Pharmacy with 170 in JAMB?

It may be possible in some private universities, but federal and state universities usually require higher scores.

Which university has the lowest cut-off mark for Pharmacy?

Private universities generally have lower cut-off marks compared to public universities.

Is Post-UTME compulsory for Pharmacy?

Most universities conduct Post-UTME or screening before admission.

Can I gain admission without meeting the cut-off mark?

No. Candidates below the cut-off mark are usually not considered for admission.

Conclusion

The JAMB cut-off mark for Pharmacy for the 2025/2026 academic session starts at 160, but realistic admission chances require much higher scores due to strong competition. Pharmacy remains a highly respected and regulated course, and universities select only candidates with strong academic performance.