What Does It Mean to Have 120 JAMB Score?

A JAMB score of 120 means you answered enough questions in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board exam to get that cut‑off number. It is quite low compared to typical university cut‑offs, which are usually 180 or more. But some polytechnics set lower cut‑offs, like 120, to give more students a chance to study. This score opens the door to schools that accept candidates with 120 marks.

How Polytechnics Use JAMB Score for Admission

• Cut‑off mark: Each polytechnic sets a minimum JAMB score you must meet. If they set 120, you may qualify.

• Direct entry options also exist for better‑scoring candidates, but here we focus on UTME (JAMB) admission.

• Screening or post‑UTME: Even if you get 120, some schools require a screening test or post‑UTME exam to choose who gets admitted.

• ND (National Diploma) programmes: Most polytechnics admit into ND programmes using JAMB score plus possibly post‑UTME.

Related Keywords & LSI Terms

• Related Keywords: polytechnics accepting 120 JAMB, JAMB 120 admission list, low JAMB score polytechnic, polytechnic cut‑off 120, JAMB 120 admission schools

• LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing) terms: ND programmes, post‑UTME screening, JAMB UTME cut‑off, admission requirement, tertiary institutions Nigeria

We naturally use these throughout the article to help Google see the relevance.

List of Polytechnics That Might Accept 120 JAMB Score

Below is a carefully compiled list (based on past patterns, reputations) of Nigerian state or private polytechnics likely to accept a 120 JAMB score in 2025/2026. Always confirm with the school’s own admission office or latest bulletin—this list guides you:

. Open University‑like / Distance Learning Polytechnics

• The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) – For Open‑Distance students; lower JAMB scores and flexible admission.

• Distance Learning Centres of State Polytechnics – Some states run distance learning that accepts lower scores.

. State Polytechnics with Historically Low Cut‑offs

These polytechnics have, in past years, set cut‑off marks between 120 to 140:

• Rivers State Polytechnic, Bori

• Nasarawa State Polytechnic, Lafia

• Adamawa State Polytechnic, Yola

• Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin

• Abia State Polytechnic, Aba

• Osun State Polytechnic, Iree

• Anambra State Polytechnic, Mgbakwu

(Note: This list is hypothetical‑based on patterns. You must check each school’s official 2025/2026 cut‑off list.)

. Private Polytechnics

• Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) – Public school but sometimes lowers cut‑off for certain departments.

• Apex Polytechnic – A private school in Lagos that has flexible admission criteria.

• Lagos City Polytechnic

• Western Delta Polytechnic, Ozoro

Again, you should verify if they accept 120 in 2025/2026, as policies change each year.

How to Apply If You Have a Low JAMB Score

Follow these steps:

1. Check JAMB CAPS – Ensure your 120 is reflected correctly.

2. Visit Nick’s ACE (Admission Catchment Event) – Use official JAMB portal to see schools that will consider 120.

3. Monitor Each Polytechnic’s Admission Bulletin for 2025/2026.

4. Apply for Post‑UTME or Screening – Many polytechnics require a simple screening form.

5. Explore Direct Entry (DE) options if you have A‑level, OND, or NCE.

6. Apply to multiple schools – To improve chances.

7. Consider adding an IJMB Programme that allows university entry later.

8. Apply for Pre‑ND programmes or Access Courses, if offered.

Advice: Start early and be ready when admission advertisements drop.

Pros and Cons of Choosing Polytechnics with Low JAMB Score

Pros

• You get admitted even with low score—great motivation.

• Cheaper school fees in state polytechnics often.

• Shorter programmes: ND (2 years) then HND (another 2 years).

• Skill focus: Polytechnics have more hands‑on skills and technical learning.

Cons

• Limited choices: Many top departments need higher score.

• Post‑UTME stress: Even with 120, screening may be tough.

• Less prestige: Some employers still prefer universities.

• Changing cut‑offs: Future years might have higher requirement.

Comparison: Polytechnics vs Universities for Low JAMB Score

Examples of Students Who Got In with Low Score

Here are some examples (fictional but realistic) to inspire:

• Aisha from Jos scored 122. She applied to Rivers State Polytechnic Bori, passed screening, and got offered ND in Business Administration.

• Chinedu from Owerri scored 128. He applied to Abia State Polytechnic, took the screening, and started ND in Computer Science.

• Fatima from Bauchi scored 120. She applied for Distance Learning at NOUN and got admitted in Mathematics Education.

These examples show low JAMB scores can lead to admission if you follow steps properly.

FAQs (10+)

Here are frequently asked questions about polytechnics accepting 120 JAMB score:

1: Can a student with 120 JAMB score get into any polytechnic?
A: Not any, but many state and private polytechnics set cut‑offs around 120–140. You must check each school’s admission requirements for 2025/2026.

2: Do all polytechnics require post‑UTME?
A: No. Some have screening tests; others rely on JAMB score and O’level. Always check each institution.

3: Is ND easier to complete than university degree?
A: ND takes 2 years and is more technical. It’s often easier in terms of duration but still needs focus and discipline.

4: Will my degree carry less value if I start with ND?
A: Employers value practical skills. Many ND holders go on to HND or convert to degree later and get good jobs.

5: How do I check if a polytechnic really accepts 120 JAMB score?
A: Visit the school’s official website, check admission bulletin or adverts, or contact the admissions office.

6: Can I apply to multiple polytechnics with 120 JAMB score?
A: Yes, it’s wise. Apply to those with cut‑offs ≥120 to increase your chance of admission.

7: What happens if the cut‑off rises after I apply?
A: Usually, you apply when cut‑off is announced. If you meet it then, you’re safe. If it rises later, earlier applicants are often safe—confirm with school.

8: Will there be IJMB or remedial options if I miss the cut‑off?
A: Yes, some polytechnics and universities offer IJMB or access courses, but most polytechnic admissions are through ND or HND.

9: Are there scholarships for students with 120 JAMB score?
A: Rarely; scholarships often go to high‑scoring students. But some school‑based or merit‑based awards may be available.

10: Can I change course after gaining admission with 120 JAMB?
A: Course transfer depends on school policy. Usually transfers need good internal results in first year.

11: Is it better to re‑sit JAMB if I score 120?
A: If you aim for university and have time, re‑sit may be helpful. But if you want to start school soon, polytechnic ND is a good choice.

12: Do polytechnics allow online lectures for ND programmes?
A: Usually no. Most ND programmes are on‑campus. But distance learning (like NOUN) does online modes.

Conclusion

Securing admission with a 120 JAMB score in 2025/2026 is still possible in several Nigerian polytechnics. Open‑distance programs like NOUN and state polytechnics with low cut‑offs offer real opportunity. Focus on checking official bulletins, applying early, and completing screening requirements. While university entry may require higher scores, polytechnic ND programmes offer fast, practical education. You can build skills, earn a diploma, then upgrade later by HND or degree.