Candidates with JAMB scores ranging from 140 to 180 often worry about their chances of securing admission into their preferred institutions. However, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) offers the option of a Change of Institution, which allows students to switch to universities with lower cut-off marks or more flexible admission policies. This route has proven beneficial for many candidates, especially when used strategically with schools known for their high acceptance rates.
The Change of Institution process is straightforward. Candidates log in to their JAMB portal, select the option to change their institution, and choose a new university that is more likely to admit them based on their current score. While many universities remain highly competitive, some institutions consistently accept students with moderate scores and offer quality education. These schools, often located in less congested areas, prioritize access and inclusivity.
Below is a detailed list of universities in Nigeria with high acceptance rates for students who use the Change of Institution option:
Federal University, Dutse (FUD)
Located in Jigawa State, FUD is recognized for its transparent and merit-based admission process. The university often considers candidates with JAMB scores starting from 140, particularly for less competitive courses. It offers programs in sciences, arts, and social sciences, providing students with various academic paths.
Federal University, Birnin Kebbi (FUBK)
FUBK in Kebbi State has steadily gained a reputation for being one of the most accessible federal universities for students switching institutions. The school maintains a broad admission window, accommodating students with average scores while still upholding academic standards.
Kebbi State University of Science and Technology (KSUSTA)
This institution offers science and technology-based programs and accepts students with JAMB scores from 140 and above. Located in Aliero, KSUSTA is suitable for students pursuing STEM disciplines and provides an alternative for those who missed out on more competitive tech universities.
Sokoto State University (SSU)
SSU is one of the northern state universities that regularly accommodates candidates from other institutions. It is known for its relatively low cut-off marks and willingness to admit students with average JAMB results, especially for arts, education, and social science courses.
Taraba State University (TSU)
TSU offers a wide variety of undergraduate programs and is regarded for its flexible admission policies. Students with scores between 140 and 180 have a realistic chance of being admitted, making it a reliable option for candidates exploring alternatives after missing out on their first-choice institutions.
Adamawa State University (ADSU)
Situated in Mubi, ADSU is another state-owned institution that welcomes a considerable number of students via the Change of Institution pathway. The university’s programs cover arts, sciences, management, and education, and its moderate entry requirements increase the chances of admission for many applicants.
Bauchi State University (BASU)
BASU has become a favored option for students seeking accessible tertiary education in the northeastern part of Nigeria. The university accepts students through the JAMB Change of Institution route and has been consistent in its admission practices, particularly for less competitive courses.
Abia State University
This university in the southeastern region of Nigeria is well-regarded for accommodating a high number of transfer and change of institution students. With a wide course offering and reasonable cut-off marks, Abia State University is a viable choice for many candidates.
Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU)
AKSU provides solid academic programs, especially in engineering, management, and agriculture. The institution is known for being flexible during the admission process, especially for those who switched to it as a second or third choice. Many students with average JAMB scores have successfully secured admission here.
Ondo State University of Science and Technology (OSUSTECH)
Also known as Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, OSUSTECH is located in Okitipupa. It is one of the more accommodating science-focused institutions in southwestern Nigeria. With lower JAMB score requirements for some programs, it remains a strong option for candidates who changed institutions.
Plateau State University (PLASU)
Located in Bokkos, PLASU is gradually becoming a top pick for candidates seeking flexible admissions in the Middle Belt. It offers programs in arts, sciences, and social sciences, and is known to accept students through the JAMB Change of Institution process with scores from 140 upward.
Making use of the Change of Institution option can be a strategic move for students who initially selected highly competitive universities but did not meet the cut-off marks. Instead of forfeiting the admission year, candidates can target universities that are more likely to offer them a place based on their current performance.
When selecting a new institution, it is important to research each university’s departmental cut-off marks, admission deadlines, and required documentation. Not all universities accept change of institution candidates every year, and policies can vary between departments within the same institution.
In addition, candidates should monitor the JAMB portal closely for updates on admission statuses and ensure that their O’level results have been uploaded correctly. Some universities may also require post-UTME screening, and it’s important to prepare accordingly.
Ultimately, gaining admission into a Nigerian university through the JAMB Change of Institution route is possible and even probable when done with proper research and timely application. The universities listed above are among the most welcoming in this regard and offer a second chance for thousands of candidates each year.
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