For any prospective student in Nigeria, understanding the intricacies of admission processes is the first step toward achieving their academic aspirations. The cut-off mark is a pivotal element in this process, often being the primary gatekeeper to securing a place in a desired course and institution. The Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (JOSTUM), formerly known as the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi (FUAM), is a prestigious institution with a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence, particularly in the fields of agriculture and STEM. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about the JOSTUM cut-off mark, providing a detailed analysis for aspiring students.
The Significance of the Cut-Off Mark in the Nigerian University System
In the highly competitive landscape of university admissions in Nigeria, the cut-off mark serves as a filtering mechanism. It is the minimum score that a candidate must achieve in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and, subsequently, the post-UTME screening to be considered for admission into a particular course or institution. These marks are not arbitrary; they are determined by a confluence of factors that reflect the demand for a course, the performance of candidates in the UTME, and the admission capacity of the university.
There are two main types of cut-off marks that every aspirant must be aware of:
- The General JAMB Cut-Off Mark: This is the minimum score set by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for all tertiary institutions in Nigeria. While JAMB sets a baseline, individual universities have the autonomy to set their own general cut-off marks, which are often higher than the JAMB minimum.
- The Departmental Cut-Off Mark: This is the specific cut-off mark for each course or department within a university. It is often a more critical determinant of admission than the general cut-off mark. The departmental cut-off mark is influenced by the number of applicants for a particular course and the overall performance of those applicants.
JOSTUM’s General JAMB Cut-Off Mark
For the 2025/2026 academic session, the general JAMB cut-off mark for the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (JOSTUM) is 150. This means that any candidate who scored 150 or above in their UTME is eligible to participate in the JOSTUM post-UTME screening exercise. It is crucial to understand that meeting this cut-off mark does not guarantee admission; it is merely the first step in a more rigorous selection process.
Unpacking JOSTUM’s Departmental Cut-Off Marks
While the general cut-off mark is the initial requirement, the departmental cut-off marks are where the real competition lies. These marks vary significantly across different faculties and departments, reflecting the popularity and competitiveness of the courses. Highly sought-after courses like Veterinary Medicine, Engineering, and certain sciences will invariably have higher cut-off marks than less subscribed courses.
To provide a clear and historical perspective, let’s examine the departmental cut-off marks from a recent academic session (2025/2026). While these may be subject to slight variations in subsequent years, they offer a reliable indication of the competitive landscape for various courses at JOSTUM.
JOSTUM (Formerly FUAM) Departmental Cut-Off Marks
| S/N | PROGRAMME | CUT-OFF POINTS |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURAL AND SCIENCE EDUCATION | |
| Agric. Econs | 160 | |
| Agric. Ext. & Rural Development | 160 | |
| 2. | COLLEGE OF AGRONOMY | |
| Crop Production | 150 | |
| Crop & Environmental Protection | 150 | |
| Plant Breeding & Seed Science | 150 | |
| Soil Science | 150 | |
| 3. | COLLEGE OF ANIMAL SCIENCE | |
| Animal Breeding & Physiology | 150 | |
| Animal Nutrition | 150 | |
| Animal Production | 150 | |
| 4. | COLLEGE OF FORESTRY AND FISHERIES | |
| Forest Production & Products | 150 | |
| Social & Environmental Forestry | 150 | |
| Wildlife & Range Management | 150 | |
| Fisheries & Aquaculture | 150 | |
| 5. | COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING | |
| Agricultural Engineering | 190 | |
| Civil Engineering | 190 | |
| Elect/Elect. Engineering | 190 | |
| Mechanical Engineering | 190 | |
| 6. | COLLEGE OF FOOD TECHNOLOGY & HUMAN ECOLOGY | |
| Food Science and Technology | 190 | |
| Home Science & Management | 170 | |
| Nutrition & Dietetics | 190 | |
| 7. | COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE | |
| Veterinary Medicine | 210 | |
| 8. | COLLEGE OF SCIENCE | |
| Biochemistry | 190 | |
| Microbiology | 190 | |
| Computer Science | 190 | |
| Chemistry | 160 | |
| Physics | 160 | |
| Industrial Physics | 160 | |
| Botany | 160 | |
| Zoology | 160 | |
| 9. | COLLEGE OF MANAGEMENT SCIENCE | |
| Agric. & Business Management | 170 | |
| 10. | COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURAL AND SCIENCE EDUCATION | |
| Integrated Science & Education | 150 | |
| Maths/Comp. Sc. & Education | 150 | |
| Stats/Comp. Sc. & Education | 150 | |
| Maths/Stats. & Education | 150 | |
| Physics & Education | 150 | |
| Chemistry & Education | 150 | |
| Biology & Education | 170 |
From this data, it is evident that the College of Veterinary Medicine had the highest cut-off mark, followed closely by the College of Engineering and competitive science courses like Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Computer Science. This historical data is an invaluable tool for prospective students, as it helps in making informed decisions about course selection and in understanding the level of competition they are likely to face.
How JOSTUM Calculates Your Aggregate Score
Meeting the departmental cut-off mark is not solely dependent on your UTME score. Universities in Nigeria, including JOSTUM, use a composite or aggregate scoring system that combines a candidate’s performance in the UTME, post-UTME screening, and their O’Level results. While the exact formula for JOSTUM may not be publicly disclosed, we can infer the likely methodology based on the practices of other federal universities in Nigeria.
The aggregate score is typically a weighted average of the following components:
- UTME Score: Your UTME score is a significant part of the aggregate score. It is usually converted to a percentage or a fraction of the total aggregate score. A common practice is to divide the UTME score by 8 (since the maximum UTME score is 400, and 400/8 = 50).
- Post-UTME Score: Your performance in the post-UTME screening exercise is another crucial component. This score is also typically converted to a percentage or a fraction of the total aggregate score.
- O’Level Results: Your O’Level grades (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB) are also factored into the aggregate score. Each grade is assigned a point value. For example, an A1 might be worth 6 points, a B2 worth 5 points, and so on. The points from your five relevant O’Level subjects are then summed up.
A Likely Aggregate Score Calculation Method:
A plausible formula for calculating the aggregate score at JOSTUM could be:
(UTME Score / 8) + Post-UTME Score + O’Level Grade Points = Aggregate Score
For instance, if a candidate scores 240 in the UTME, 25 in the post-UTME, and has O’Level grades that sum up to 28 points, their aggregate score would be:
(240 / 8) + 25 + 28 = 30 + 25 + 28 = 83
This aggregate score is then compared to the departmental cut-off mark to determine the candidate’s admission status.
Factors That Influence JOSTUM’s Cut-Off Marks
The cut-off marks at JOSTUM, like at any other university, are not static. They are dynamic and are influenced by a variety of factors each year. Understanding these factors can provide valuable insights into the admission trends at the university.
- Overall Performance of Candidates in UTME: The general performance of candidates in the UTME plays a significant role in determining the cut-off marks. If the overall performance is high, the cut-off marks are likely to be raised to select the best candidates.
- Number of Applicants: The number of candidates who apply for a particular course at JOSTUM directly impacts the cut-off mark. Courses with a high number of applicants will naturally have higher cut-off marks due to increased competition.
- Admission Quota: Every department in the university has a specific admission quota, which is the maximum number of students they can admit. This quota is determined by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and is based on the department’s carrying capacity in terms of facilities and staff. A limited admission quota for a popular course will inevitably lead to a higher cut-off mark.
- University’s Admission Policy: The university’s administration may have specific admission policies that can influence the cut-off marks. These policies may be aimed at ensuring a fair distribution of admissions across different states of the federation and promoting diversity on campus.
Strategies for Meeting and Exceeding JOSTUM’s Cut-Off Marks
Aspiring to study at JOSTUM requires not just meeting the cut-off mark but aiming to surpass it to stand a better chance of admission. Here are some effective strategies for prospective students:
- Aim for a High UTME Score: Your UTME score is the foundation of your admission quest. Aim for a score that is significantly higher than the previous year’s cut-off mark for your desired course. This will give you a competitive edge.
- Thorough Preparation for the Post-UTME: The post-UTME screening is your opportunity to boost your aggregate score. Prepare diligently by studying past questions and familiarizing yourself with the format of the examination.
- Excellent O’Level Results: Good O’Level grades can significantly enhance your chances of admission. Strive for distinctions in your five core subjects.
- Strategic Course Selection: Be realistic about your academic capabilities and choose a course for which you have a genuine passion and the required academic aptitude. Research the cut-off marks for your chosen course over the past few years to gauge the level of competition.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of the latest admission news and updates from the official JOSTUM website and other credible sources. This will ensure that you do not miss any important information regarding the admission process.
Your Pathway to JOSTUM
The Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, is an institution that offers a vibrant academic environment and a pathway to a successful career. Understanding the nuances of the JOSTUM cut-off mark is the first and most critical step in your journey to becoming a student of this esteemed university. By setting realistic goals, preparing diligently, and staying informed, you can navigate the competitive admission process and secure your place at JOSTUM. Remember, the cut-off mark is not just a number; it is a benchmark of excellence that you should strive to meet and exceed.