Federal Government Announces New Policy on Post-UTME Screening for 2026 Admissions

The Federal Ministry of Education, through the National Universities Commission (NUC) and JAMB, has issued a new policy directive for the 2026/2027 academic session Post-UTME screening. Institutions are now required to complete their Post-UTME exercises within a unified window and to publish cut-off marks transparently.

In a circular dated 30 June 2026, the ministry directed all universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education to conduct the screening of candidates between 1 October and 14 November 2026. No institution is permitted to hold Post-UTME outside this period without special approval. The circular also mandates that each institution publish its departmental cut-off marks on its website and the JAMB Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) before the screening begins. The policy change aims to eliminate the practice of hidden or arbitrary cut-off marks that disadvantage candidates. Institutions must now use a clear formula combining UTME score, Post-UTME score, and O-Level grades to compute the aggregate. The aggregate and admission list must be uploaded to CAPS within 72 hours of the screening.

JAMB has warned that any institution that fails to comply will lose its admission quota for the session. The ministry also reiterated that no institution should charge more than the approved N2,000 screening fee. Candidates should report any violations to JAMB or the NUC. For candidates, this means more transparency. You can now expect to know your chances before the screening. Keep an eye on your chosen institution’s website and the JAMB portal for exact dates and cut-off marks. Register only through the official portal of the institution. Avoid paying money to individuals claiming to assist with admission.