By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Nigerian universities, polytechnics and colleges of education offer many great courses that have lower JAMB cut-off marks but are still highly valuable and rewarding.
So, you’ve checked your JAMB result and the score isn’t what you hoped for. Maybe it’s below 200, and now you’re wondering if your dreams of getting into university are over. Don’t panic—you’re not alone, and the answer is no, your dream is still alive.
Not every student scores 250 or above in JAMB. In fact, a large number don’t even hit the 200 mark. That can feel discouraging, especially if you were aiming for competitive courses like Medicine, Law, or Engineering. But a low JAMB score doesn’t mean you can’t still pursue a solid, meaningful course of study.
There are several courses in Nigerian tertiary institutions that accept lower JAMB scores, and many of them lead to great career opportunities. Let’s explore seven of these underrated yet valuable courses, why they’re worth considering, and what career paths they can open up.
Here are alternative courses you can study with low JAMB score 2025
1. Education (All Subjects)
Education courses have some of the lowest cut-off marks, but don’t underestimate their value. Whether it’s Mathematics, English, Biology, or Government, becoming a trained teacher opens the door to academic, administrative, and policy-making roles in Nigeria’s growing education sector.
2. Agricultural Science
Nigeria’s economy depends heavily on agriculture, and there’s a constant demand for skilled agricultural experts. Studying Agricultural Science can lead to careers in agribusiness, research, and food production, and even entrepreneurship in farming and agro-processing.
3. Religious Studies / Theology
If you’re passionate about religion, philosophy, or ethics, this is a solid course with a low entry barrier. Graduates often become educators, counselors, or work within faith-based organizations. It also prepares you for roles in leadership within religious institutions.
4. Home Economics
This course may not seem popular, but it’s practical and career-rich. Home Economics graduates can work in food and nutrition, textile design, family life education, or even start their own businesses in catering or interior decoration.
5. Library and Information Science
With the world shifting towards digital information and data management, this course is becoming more relevant than ever. It’s great for students interested in organization, research, and IT. You can work in schools, universities, government agencies, or digital archives.
6. Theatre Arts / Performing Arts
If you’re creative and enjoy storytelling, drama, or media, this course offers a great path. Nigeria’s entertainment industry is booming, and Theatre Arts graduates can find work in film, TV, event production, or become actors, directors, or playwrights.
7. Local Language Studies (Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, etc.)
These indigenous language courses not only preserve culture but are essential in education, broadcasting, and translation. There’s growing demand for local language experts in media, education, and publishing, especially with efforts to promote African identity.