JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Law 2025/2026 in Nigeria

Law is one of the most competitive and prestigious courses in Nigerian universities. Every year, thousands of candidates apply to study Law (LL.B), but only a small percentage secure admission due to high competition, limited admission quotas, and strict academic requirements.

If you intend to study Law in the 2025/2026 academic session, it is very important to understand the JAMB cut-off mark for Law, how universities set their departmental cut-off marks, and what you need to do to increase your chances of admission. This article provides a comprehensive guide covering the official cut-off mark, university-specific expectations, screening process, and frequently asked questions.

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 course or institution. JAMB sets a general minimum benchmark, while universities are free to increase their departmental cut-off marks based on:

• Number of applicants

• Available admission slots

• Course competitiveness

• Institutional admission policies
  For Law, the cut-off mark is usually higher than most other arts and social science courses.

Official JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Law 2025/2026

For the 2025/2026 academic session, the general JAMB cut-off mark for Law is 160 and above
This means:

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

• Scoring 160 or above only qualifies you for screening.

• Admission is not guaranteed until all other requirements are met.
  In reality, most universities set much higher scores for Law due to strong competition.

University Cut-Off Mark Ranges for Law

The actual cut-off mark for Law depends largely on the type of university you are applying to.

Federal Universities

Federal universities offering Law are the most competitive.

• Typical cut-off range: 200 – 260

• Highly competitive schools may require 240 or above

State Universities

State universities are slightly less competitive than federal institutions but still maintain high standards.

• Typical cut-off range: 180 – 230

Private Universities

Private universities usually have more flexible cut-off marks.

• Typical cut-off range: 160 – 180
  Candidates are strongly advised to aim well above the minimum cut-off mark to remain competitive.

Why Law Cut-Off Marks Are High

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

• Law is a professional and regulated course

• Limited admission slots approved by accreditation bodies

• High number of applicants every year

• Strong competition among candidates

• Intensive academic workload of the program
  Due to these factors, universities often 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 into Law.

Admission decisions are usually based on a combination of:

• UTME score

• O’Level grades

• Post-UTME or screening score

• Institutional admission formula

• Available slots
  Candidates with higher UTME scores and strong O’Level results stand a better chance.

Departmental Cut-Off Mark for Law

Many universities release departmental cut-off marks after screening exercises. For Law, these departmental cut-off marks are often higher than the general institutional cut-off.

For example:

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

• Departmental cut-off marks may change yearly depending on performance trends
  Candidates should regularly check official admission announcements from their chosen institutions.

Post-UTME and Screening for Law

After UTME results are released, eligible candidates are invited for screening or Post-UTME.

Screening May Include:

• Written Post-UTME examination

• Online O’Level result upload

• UTME and O’Level score aggregation

• Physical document verification

Documents Required for Screening:

• JAMB UTME result slip

• O’Level certificates or statements

• Birth certificate or age declaration

• Recent passport photographs
  Strong performance during screening greatly improves admission chances.

O-Level Requirements for Law

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

Most Nigerian universities require:

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

• Compulsory subjects:

  • English Language

  • Literature-in-English

• Other relevant subjects may include:

  • Government

  • History

  • Economics
    Candidates without Literature-in-English are often disqualified from Law admission.

    How to Increase Your Chances of Studying Law

1. Aim Far Above the Minimum Cut Off

For Law, a UTME score of 220 and above gives you a stronger advantage, especially in public universities.

2. Get Strong O’Level Grades

Higher grades may boost your aggregate score during screening.

3. Prepare for Post-UTME

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

4. Apply Strategically

Apply to a mix of federal, state, and private universities.

5. Monitor Admission Updates

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

Alternative Options If You Miss the Cut-Off Mark

If you do not meet the cut-off mark for Law, you may consider:

• Applying to private universities with lower cut-off marks

• Changing course to a related arts or social science program

• Applying through foundation or pre-degree programmes (where available)

These options may provide alternative pathways into the legal profession.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

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

Can I study Law 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 Law?

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

Is Post-UTME compulsory for Law?

Most universities conduct Post-UTME or screening before offering admission.

Is Literature-in-English compulsory for Law?

Yes. Most universities require Literature-in-English at both UTME and O’Level.

Conclusion

The JAMB cut-off mark for Law for the 2025/2026 academic session starts at 160, but realistic admission chances require much higher scores due to intense competition. Law remains one of the most competitive courses in Nigeria, and universities admit only candidates with strong academic profiles.

To improve your chances, aim for high UTME scores, ensure complete O’Level results, perform well in screening exercises, and stay informed through official admission channels. With proper preparation and accurate information, gaining admission to study Law is achievable.