Choosing a university is one of the most important decisions for any student, and understanding admission requirements is a key part of that process. If you are planning to apply to Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), one of the first things you will likely search for is the cut off mark.
This article explains everything you need to know about the Nnamdi Azikiwe University cut off mark.
What Is A Cut Off Mark?
A cut off mark is the minimum score a candidate must achieve in an examination to be considered eligible for admission.
In Nigerian universities, cut off marks are usually based on:
- UTME (JAMB) score
- Post-UTME screening results
- Departmental and faculty requirements
If your score is below the cut off mark, you may not be considered for admission, even if you meet other requirements.
About Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
Nnamdi Azikiwe University, popularly known as UNIZIK, is a federal university located in Awka, Anambra State. It is named after Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Nigeria’s first President.
UNIZIK is well known for:
- A wide range of academic programs
- Competitive admission process
- Strong reputation in science, medicine, social sciences, and humanities
Because of its popularity, admission into UNIZIK is highly competitive, which makes understanding the cut off mark very important.
UNIZIK General Cut Off Mark Explained
The general cut off mark is the minimum UTME score required to apply to UNIZIK.
This mark:
- Is usually set in line with JAMB guidelines
- Applies to all candidates before departmental considerations
- Can change from year to year depending on competition and policy decisions
Meeting the general cut off mark does not guarantee admission, but it qualifies you to participate in further screening processes.
Departmental Cut Off Marks At UNIZIK
After meeting the general cut off mark, candidates are further assessed based on departmental cut off marks.
What Are Departmental Cut Off Marks?
Departmental cut off marks are:
- Higher or specific score requirements for individual courses
Determined by factors such as:
- Number of applicants
- Available admission slots
- Performance of candidates
Competitive Courses Often Have Higher Cut Off Marks
Courses like:
- Medicine and Surgery
- Law
- Pharmacy
- Nursing
- Engineering
- Mass Communication
usually require higher scores because more students apply for them.
Why UNIZIK Cut Off Marks Change Every Year
Many students wonder why cut off marks are not always the same. Here are the main reasons:
Number Of Applicants
When more candidates apply for a course, the cut off mark often increases.
Overall Candidate Performance
If most candidates score high, departments may raise their cut off mark.
Admission Quota
Each department has a limited number of students it can admit.
National Admission Policies
Universities follow guidelines provided by education authorities.
How UNIZIK Uses Cut Off Marks In Admission
UNIZIK does not rely on UTME scores alone. Instead, admission is usually based on a combination of factors:
- UTME score
- Post-UTME or screening performance
- O’Level results
- Course competitiveness
Even if two students score the same in UTME, their chances may differ depending on these additional factors.
Can You Gain Admission If You Meet The Cut Off Mark?
Meeting the cut off mark means:
- You are eligible
- You can be considered
- However, admission is not guaranteed.
To improve your chances:
- Score well above the minimum cut off
- Have strong O’Level results
- Choose less competitive courses if necessary
What To Do If Your Score Is Below The Cut Off Mark
If your UTME score is below the cut off mark, you still have options:
Change Of Course
- Apply for a course with a lower cut off mark.
Change Of Institution
- Consider universities with lower admission requirements.
Prepare For The Next UTME
- Retake the exam and aim for a higher score.
Consider Alternative Programs
- Some candidates explore diploma or pre-degree programs.
Common Mistakes Students Make About Cut Off Marks
Understanding cut off marks properly can help you avoid these mistakes:
- Assuming meeting the cut off mark guarantees admission
- Ignoring departmental requirements
- Relying on unverified information from social media
- Waiting too late to check official updates
Always rely on official announcements and trusted educational platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the UNIZIK Cut Off Marrk The Same For All Courses?
No. While there is a general cut off mark, each department has its own requirements.
Can UNIZIK Change Its Cut Off Mark?
Yes. Cut off marks can change every academic year.
Does UNIZIK Accept Second Choice Candidates?
Admission policies can change, but first choice candidates usually have higher chances.
Is Post-UTME Compulsory?
UNIZIK may use screening methods instead of written exams, depending on the year.
Is UNIZIK Doing Post-UTME Or Screening In 2025?
Yes — UNIZIK is conducting a Post-UTME / Direct Entry screening exercise for the 2025/2026 academic session.The university has officially scheduled its 2025/2026 Post-UTME & Direct Entry screening, and candidates who selected UNIZIK as their first choice and meet eligibility criteria are required to register and participate. Eligibility includes meeting the required UTME pass marks and uploading O’Level results on time for consideration in the screening exercise.
What this means: Even if Post-UTME is not a written exam in the traditional sense every year, UNIZIK uses a screening process (which may include online/physical verification and review of credentials) to assess candidates before admission offers are made.
Has UNIZIK Released The Admission List For 2025-2026
Yes!The UNIZIK admission list for the 2025/2026 academic session has already been released. Candidates who took part in the screening exercise can now check their admission status via the JAMB CAPS portal or the UNIZIK admission portal.
How Many Years Is Nursing In UNIZIK
The Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) program at UNIZIK is a five-year degree course.This includes academic study over five years and typically leads into a compulsory internship period after graduation, although the internship may be accounted for separately from the academic degree duration.
How Much Is The UNIZIK Acceptance Fee?
The acceptance fee for fresh UNIZIK students for the 2025/2026 session has been published and it is generally ₦47,000 for all faculties and programs, regardless of course.
