Are you preparing for JAMB and wondering which state university to apply for? Choosing the right institution is one of the most important academic decisions you will ever make. This guide breaks down the top 20 best state universities and their cutoff mark in Nigeria 2026/2027 — giving you everything you need to make a smart, informed choice.
Whether you are aiming for medicine, engineering, law, or education, knowing the cutoff mark of your dream university keeps you ahead of the competition. Read carefully, because this article is built for students like you who want real answers.
What Is a Cutoff Mark and Why Does It Matter?
A cutoff mark is the minimum JAMB score a university sets as a requirement for candidates to be considered for admission screening. It is not the same as your admission score — it is simply the entry point to the process.
Here is why it matters:
- It determines whether your JAMB score qualifies you for post-UTME
- Different courses within the same university may carry higher departmental cutoffs
- State universities generally set lower cutoffs than federal universities, making them accessible to more students
Understanding this puts you in a stronger position when making your JAMB choice of institution.
Federal vs. State Universities — What Is the Difference?
Federal universities are funded and managed by the federal government, while state universities are established and funded by individual state governments. State universities tend to be more affordable in terms of tuition and acceptance, and many of them now rival federal institutions in academic quality.
For students seeking the best state universities and their cutoff mark in Nigeria, the good news is that several state institutions now hold strong national and international rankings.
Top 20 Best State Universities And Their Cutoff Mark In Nigeria 2026/2027
Below is a carefully compiled list of the top 20 best state universities and their cutoff mark in Nigeria 2026/2027. These institutions stand out based on academic reputation, NBTE/NUC accreditation status, research output, and student outcomes.
1. Lagos State University (LASU) — Lagos State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 180
LASU is one of the most respected state universities in Nigeria. It offers strong programs in law, social sciences, sciences, and management. The institution consistently produces graduates who compete at national and global levels.
Popular Courses: Law, Mass Communication, Computer Science, Accounting, Medicine
2. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) — Oyo/Osun State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 180
LAUTECH is a technology-focused state university known for producing skilled engineers and agricultural scientists. Its medical school and engineering programs are among the best in the Southwest.
Popular Courses: Medicine and Surgery, Engineering, Agriculture, Computer Science
3. Rivers State University (RSU) — Rivers State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 180
RSU, formerly known as Rivers State University of Science and Technology, has a strong presence in the South-South. It excels in engineering, sciences, and environmental studies.
Popular Courses: Petroleum Engineering, Architecture, Law, Computer Science
4. Imo State University (IMSU) — Imo State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 160
IMSU is a comprehensive university in the Southeast offering competitive programs in medicine, social sciences, and humanities. It has produced many prominent professionals across Nigeria.
Popular Courses: Medicine, Law, Economics, Pharmacy
5. Ekiti State University (EKSU) — Ekiti State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 160
EKSU stands as one of the most academically active state universities in the Southwest. It has a growing research culture and well-accredited departments across multiple faculties.
Popular Courses: Accounting, Education, Law, Sciences, Engineering
6. Delta State University (DELSU) — Delta State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 160
DELSU, based in Abraka, offers diverse academic programs. Its faculty of law and medicine receive particularly strong recognition within the South-South region.
Popular Courses: Law, Medicine, Pharmacy, Education, Sciences
7. Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) — Ogun State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 160
OOU, formerly Ogun State University, is a well-established institution with strong programs in sciences and social sciences. It draws students from across Ogun State and beyond.
Popular Courses: Medicine, Pharmacy, Engineering, Business Administration
8. Ambrose Alli University (AAU) — Edo State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 160
AAU in Ekpoma is one of the oldest state universities in Nigeria. It carries a proud academic tradition and continues to produce graduates in sciences, humanities, and professional programs.
Popular Courses: Medicine, Law, Economics, Mass Communication
9. Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) — Enugu State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 160
ESUT offers strong science and technology-focused programs. Its engineering and medical faculties are particularly active, attracting students from across the Southeast.
Popular Courses: Engineering, Medicine, Law, Computer Science
10. Adamawa State University (ADSU) — Adamawa State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 140
ADSU is a growing university in the Northeast that provides accessible education to students in its region. It offers programs across sciences, arts, management, and education.
Popular Courses: Education, Sciences, Business Administration, Computer Science
11. Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA) — Ondo State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 160
AAUA in Akungba-Akoko is one of Ondo State’s proudest academic institutions. It runs well-accredited programs and has a strong tradition in the liberal arts and sciences.
Popular Courses: Law, Education, Sciences, Arts
12. Kogi State University (KSU) — Kogi State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 140
KSU serves students across the North-Central region. It offers programs in law, sciences, arts, and social sciences, with a focus on community-relevant education.
Popular Courses: Law, Education, Political Science, Accounting
13. Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH) — Cross River State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 140
CRUTECH bridges the gap between technical education and academic excellence in the South-South. It offers science, technology, and management programs.
Popular Courses: Engineering, Computer Science, Business Administration, Biochemistry
14. Osun State University (UNIOSUN) — Osun State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 160
UNIOSUN is a multi-campus university offering programs across agriculture, law, health sciences, and education. It operates a unique community-university model.
Popular Courses: Law, Nursing, Pharmacy, Agriculture, Education
15. Anambra State University (Now Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University — COOU) — Anambra State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 160
COOU has transformed significantly over the years and now runs strong programs especially in applied sciences and engineering. It is a major provider of skilled graduates in the Southeast.
Popular Courses: Engineering, Medicine, Computer Science, Pharmacy
16. Taraba State University — Taraba State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 140
Taraba State University serves a largely underserved academic region in the Northeast. It provides programs in education, sciences, social sciences, and management.
Popular Courses: Education, Sciences, Agriculture, Business Administration
17. Plateau State University (PLASU) — Plateau State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 140
PLASU in Bokkos offers diverse academic programs and plays a significant role in expanding higher education access in the North-Central region.
Popular Courses: Sciences, Arts, Social Sciences, Education
18. Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) — Akwa Ibom State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 160
AKSU is a well-funded and rapidly developing state university. Its strong infrastructure and growing faculty make it attractive to students in the South-South and beyond.
Popular Courses: Engineering, Computer Science, Medicine, Law
19. Bauchi State University (BASUG) — Bauchi State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 140
BASUG provides education across multiple disciplines in the Northeast. It places emphasis on science, technology, and education programs that serve the regional workforce.
Popular Courses: Sciences, Education, Agriculture, Social Sciences
20. Kebbi State University of Science and Technology (KSUSTA) — Kebbi State
JAMB Cutoff Mark: 140
KSUSTA focuses on science and technology education in the Northwest. It is actively developing programs that align with the agricultural and industrial needs of its community.
Popular Courses: Agriculture, Engineering, Computer Science, Sciences
Top 20 Best State Universities And Their School Fees Range In Nigeria 2026/2027
| S/N | University | State | School Fees Range (Per Session) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lagos State University (LASU) | Lagos | ₦60,000 – ₦200,000 |
| 2 | Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) | Oyo/Osun | ₦65,000 – ₦180,000 |
| 3 | Rivers State University (RSU) | Rivers | ₦70,000 – ₦200,000 |
| 4 | Imo State University (IMSU) | Imo | ₦50,000 – ₦150,000 |
| 5 | Ekiti State University (EKSU) | Ekiti | ₦45,000 – ₦140,000 |
| 6 | Delta State University (DELSU) | Delta | ₦50,000 – ₦150,000 |
| 7 | Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) | Ogun | ₦55,000 – ₦160,000 |
| 8 | Ambrose Alli University (AAU) | Edo | ₦45,000 – ₦130,000 |
| 9 | Enugu State University of Sci. & Tech. (ESUT) | Enugu | ₦50,000 – ₦140,000 |
| 10 | Adamawa State University (ADSU) | Adamawa | ₦35,000 – ₦100,000 |
| 11 | Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA) | Ondo | ₦40,000 – ₦120,000 |
| 12 | Kogi State University (KSU) | Kogi | ₦35,000 – ₦100,000 |
| 13 | Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH) | Cross River | ₦40,000 – ₦110,000 |
| 14 | Osun State University (UNIOSUN) | Osun | ₦45,000 – ₦130,000 |
| 15 | Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) | Anambra | ₦50,000 – ₦140,000 |
| 16 | Taraba State University | Taraba | ₦30,000 – ₦90,000 |
| 17 | Plateau State University (PLASU) | Plateau | ₦35,000 – ₦100,000 |
| 18 | Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU) | Akwa Ibom | ₦50,000 – ₦150,000 |
| 19 | Bauchi State University (BASUG) | Bauchi | ₦30,000 – ₦90,000 |
| 20 | Kebbi State University of Science & Tech. (KSUSTA) | Kebbi | ₦30,000 – ₦85,000 |
Important Notes About These School Fees:
Why the Wide Range:
- Lower range: Typically for Arts, Education, Social Sciences courses for indigenes
- Upper range: Medicine, Engineering, Pharmacy, Law courses for non-indigenes
- Indigene vs Non-Indigene: Indigenes pay 30-50% less than non-indigenes in most state universities
What These Fees Include:
- Tuition
- Laboratory/practical fees
- Library fees
- Sports and development levies
- Medical fees
- Examination fees
What These Fees DON’T Include:
- Accommodation (₦20,000 – ₦80,000 extra per session)
- Feeding
- Textbooks and materials
- Transportation
- Personal expenses
Important Things to Know About State University Cutoff Marks
Cutoff Mark Is Not Admission Score
Many students confuse the JAMB cutoff with the final admission score. The cutoff mark simply qualifies you to participate in the post-UTME screening. Your eventual admission depends on your combined JAMB score, Post-UTME score, O’level grades, and in some cases, catchment area considerations.
Departmental Cutoffs Are Higher
Even if a university’s general cutoff is 160, individual departments — especially for competitive courses like Medicine, Law, Pharmacy, and Engineering — typically require much higher scores. Always check departmental requirements on the institution’s official portal or the JAMB CAPS system.
State of Origin and Catchment Area
Many state universities give priority to students from their home state. If you are applying to a state university outside your state of origin, be prepared that the competition may be stiffer, and some institutions may apply supplementary screening criteria.
How to Choose the Right State University for You
Selecting a university is not just about cutoff marks. Here are smart factors every serious student should consider:
- Course accreditation — verify that your intended course has full NUC accreditation
- Tuition and fees — state universities vary significantly in school fees
- Location and cost of living — proximity to home can reduce expenses
- Campus facilities — check libraries, laboratories, hostels, and internet access
- Alumni network — strong alumni networks open career doors after graduation
- Academic calendar stability — some universities are known for strike disruptions
The top 20 best state universities and their cutoff mark in Nigeria 2026/2027 listed above are institutions that score well across most of these factors.
Tips to Score Above Any State University Cutoff Mark
Getting a strong JAMB score is within your reach if you approach it strategically. Here is what works:
- Start your JAMB preparation at least six months before the exam
- Use JAMB past questions from 2015 to date — patterns repeat
- Focus on your four chosen subjects and ignore distractions
- Practice with CBT simulation software to build exam speed
- Sleep well the night before, eat light on exam day, and arrive early
Students who score 200 and above have the luxury of choosing any university on this list and competing strongly for any course.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the minimum JAMB score for state universities in Nigeria?
Most state universities accept a minimum JAMB score of 140, while more competitive institutions like LASU and LAUTECH require 180. The higher your score, the better your chances across all institutions.
Can I gain admission with 140 in JAMB to a state university?
Yes, several state universities accept 140 as their cutoff. However, your Post-UTME performance and O’level results must be strong enough to compensate. Competitive courses in those schools may still require higher scores.
Are state universities in Nigeria as good as federal universities?
Many state universities now rival federal institutions in specific courses. LAUTECH’s medical and engineering programs, LASU’s law faculty, and RSU’s engineering department are excellent examples of state-university excellence.
Do state universities conduct Post-UTME after JAMB?
Yes. Almost all state universities conduct Post-UTME or screening exercises after JAMB. Some use direct entry screening. Check the specific institution’s admissions portal for current information.
How do I know if my JAMB score meets a university’s cutoff?
Log in to your JAMB CAPS portal at jamb.gov.ng. Your dashboard shows whether you are eligible for the institution you chose based on the set cutoff.
Is it better to apply to a state university or a federal university?
It depends on your goals, financial situation, and available score. If you score above 200, federal universities become very accessible. If your score falls between 140–180, many state universities offer excellent programs and faster admission processing.
Which state university has the lowest cutoff mark in Nigeria?
Several state universities in the North and Middle Belt — including Taraba State University, Bauchi State University, Plateau State University, and Kogi State University — accept cutoffs as low as 140.
Which state university is the best in Nigeria?
This depends on the course of study, but LASU, LAUTECH, and RSU consistently rank among the best state universities in Nigeria based on NUC rankings, research output, and graduate employability.
Final Thoughts
Choosing your university requires more than picking a school with a low cutoff. It requires aligning your academic goals, financial reality, and career aspirations with the right institution.
This complete guide on the top 20 best state universities and their cutoff mark in Nigeria 2026/2027 gives you a trusted starting point. Every university on this list has demonstrated academic credibility, and with the right preparation, any of them can be your launchpad to a successful career.
Bookmark this page, share it with fellow students, and most importantly — start preparing for your JAMB today. Your university journey begins with a score, but it ends with a dream.