Do you plan on pursuing your higher education through Direct Entry into the University? If yes, that’s a great move and you’re not alone.
Many aspirants have successfully gotten admission into the University via this route.
Every year, thousands of students like you dream of skipping the first year and jumping straight into 200 level.
It’s smart and legal but the thing is, you’ll still need to pass the Direct Entry cut-off mark as it’s what decides whether you get admission into the University, or have to try again next year.
But don’t worry. I’ve got you. Here is everything you need to know about Direct Entry Cut-off Marks in Nigeria Universities. Â
Check Also: How to Prepare for JAMB in 2026 in One Sitting
What is Direct Entry in Nigeria?
So first, let’s understand what this means. Direct Entry (DE) is a mode of admission into Nigerian Universities.
It allows students with qualifications like:
- OND (Ordinary National Diploma)
- HND (Higher National Diploma)
- NCE (Nigeria Certificate in Education)
- A-Level results (e.g. IJMB, JUPEB, Cambridge)
…to gain admission straight into 200 level of a degree program.
Unlike UTME, you don’t start from year one. But there’s directions to this. Each University sets a Direct Entry cut-off mark. That’s the minimum grade or point you need to get admitted.
Alright, now to the main thing.
What Exactly is a Direct Entry Cut-Off Mark?
A Direct Entry cut-off mark is like a password to open an entrance.
Think of it like the pass mark in an exam that you need to pass through.
If you score below it, you don’t get in and if you score above it, your chances of getting admission increases.
This score is mostly based on your previous academic performance like your GPA, A-level points, or NCE result.
Sometimes, Universities also add a screening or post-UTME score to the mix. But here’s the tricky part, each University has its own cut-off mark.
Even the same course can have different marks in different Schools.
Check Also: Step-by-step Guide to Register for JAMB UTME in Nigeria 2025
Direct Entry Cut-Off Marks in Nigeria Universities
Below are the direct entry cut-off marks in top Nigerian Universities:
1. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
UNILAG is very competitive. For Direct Entry, you often need at least:
- Upper Credit for OND/HND holders
- 10 points and above for A-level holders (JUPEB, IJMB)
- Medicine, Law, Engineering?
- Those need even higher scores of 200 and above.
2. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Obafemi Awolowo University also looks for good results. You’ll need:
- Upper Credit minimum in OND/HND.
- 8 to 12 points for JUPEB/IJMB depending on the course.
Meanwhile, courses like Pharmacy, Law, and Engineering usually need more points before you could ever get admission there.
3. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- UNIBEN uses screening.
- Upper Credit or Distinction for OND/NCE
- For JUPEB: 10 to 13 points
- UNIBEN also considers your O’Level results.
So make sure your WAEC/NECO grades are solid too.
4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- ABU accepts a wide range of qualifications.
- Minimum of Merit or Upper Credit.
- 7 to 13 points for IJMB depending on course
They give clear guidelines, so check their official portal.
5. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
This University is also quite competitive. What you’ll need to get admission:
- Distinction or Upper Credit for ND/HND/NCE
- JUPEB/IJMB: 10 to 13 points for top courses.
UNILORIN also checks your course of study closely.
How to Calculate Your Direct Entry Points
To calculate the Direct Entry cut-off marks in Nigeria Universities highly depends on the system you use.
For example, in JUPEB or IJMB:
A = 5 points
B = 4 points
C = 3 points
D = 2 points
E = 1 point
So if you got A in Physics, B in Chemistry, and B in Biology, that’s:
5 + 4 + 4 = 13 points
Not bad at all. Same applies for Cambridge A-Level or other advanced systems.
Read: Difference Between JAMB, UTME, and Direct Entry Admission in Nigeria
What Affects Your Chances Beyond the Cut-Off Mark?
Here’s the thing. Meeting the cut-off doesn’t always guarantee admission.
There are other things Schools consider too before they give you admission:
- Your O’Level results: Especially in English and Math
- Your course choice: Some are way more competitive
- Catchment area: Your state might give you a small boost.
- Number of applicants:Â More people, more pressure
So don’t just aim for the cut-off. But Aim higher if you want to get admission with Direct Entry cut-off marks in Nigeria Universities.
How to Boost Your Direct Entry Admission Chances
Want to play it smart? Here are a few tips and tricks to boost your admission using direct Entry way:
1. Apply early.
Don’t wait until the last minute when everyone is in haste to apply.
2. Choose less competitive courses.
Courses like Medicine, Law, and Engineering? Are tough. Consider other alternatives.
3. Prepare for screening.
Some schools conduct written or oral interviews. You can study online via ulesson materials.
4. Make your documents solid.
Upload clean, clear copies. Avoid mistakes in your name or date of birth.
5. Follow up.
Check your email and the School portal for updates.
Top 10 Courses With the Highest Direct Entry Cut-Off Marks in Nigeria Universities
These courses usually need top scores to get admission:
- Medicine and Surgery
- Dentistry
- Pharmacy
- Law
- Engineering (especially Electrical and Mechanical)
- Nursing
- Computer Science
- Accounting
- Economics
- Architecture
So if you’re interested in studying any of these courses, you must have to come prepared.
Check Also: Jamb Cut-Off Marks for Federal Universities in Nigeria
FAQs for Direct Entry Cut-Off Marks in Nigeria Universities.
Q1. Can I gain admission without meeting the cut-off mark?
Honestly, it’s very unlikely. Some Schools might consider you if your course isn’t competitive, but don’t bank on it. You need to study smart and hard.
Q2. Can I apply for Direct Entry and UTME in the same year?
Yes, you can. That gives you two chances at once to get admitted.
Q3. What happens if I miss the cut-off by just one point?
Some schools might still consider you, especially if your O’Level results are excellent. But it’s not guaranteed.
Q4. Do all Universities accept Direct Entry?
Most Federal and State Universities do. Private ones do also but not all.
Q5. Can I switch courses if I don’t meet the cut-off?
Sometimes. Some Universities allow you to change to a related course with a lower cut-off.
Final Thoughts
To be honest with you, Direct Entry isn’t a shortcut. It’s a different route to still get you to your destination. And like every route, it has its ups and downs.
First, you’ll need to meet the direct entry cut-off marks in Nigeria Universities before you can be admitted, so prepare your documents, and stay sharp.
But you know what? You’ve got this. Every year, thousands of students succeed through Direct Entry, and so can you. So keep pushing. Even if one door closes, another will open.
Just don’t stop trying because your dream of going to university is still valid. And it’s closer than you think.
Good luck!
If you found this guide helpful, why not share it with someone who needs it?
And if you’ve got any questions or want to chat about your own Direct Entry journey, drop a comment below.
