“The Board’s annual policy meeting on admissions is a crucial annual gathering where stakeholders decide minimum tolerable UTME marks, admission guidelines, and policies for tertiary institutions,” said Dr. Fabian Benjamin. This significant event is scheduled for May 11, 2026, at the Body of Benchers Auditorium in Abuja.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) will host education stakeholders, including vice-chancellors, rectors, provosts, registrars, and admission officers from various tertiary institutions. This annual meeting plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of tertiary education in Nigeria.
That context matters because it highlights the importance of setting cut-off marks that align with national educational goals. The outcomes from this meeting will set the tone for the 2026/2027 admission exercise.
Officials have not yet announced what those cut-off marks will be prior to this gathering. However, they are expected to reflect both academic standards and accessibility for prospective students.
This year’s meeting will also feature the 6th edition of the National Tertiary Admissions Performance-Merit Awards, celebrating excellence in admissions performance across institutions.
The Minister of Education, Maruf Olatunji Alausa, will provide policy direction during this critical assembly. His insights are likely to influence how educational institutions approach admissions in the coming academic year.
In past meetings, JAMB has established minimum UTME scores that impact thousands of students each year. The decisions made on May 11 will be no different; they will resonate throughout Nigeria’s educational landscape.
As education stakeholders gather to discuss these vital issues, one thing is clear: the outcome of this meeting could significantly affect how many students gain access to higher education opportunities across Nigeria.