
If you’re aspiring to study at Rivers State University (RSU), knowing the JAMB cut off mark for Rivers State University is a crucial first step. Every year, thousands of applicants compete for a limited number of admission slots at RSU, and the JAMB cut-off mark determines your eligibility to sit for the school’s Post UTME screening exercise. This blog post gives you all the updated information about RSU’s general and departmental cut-off marks, how admission decisions are made, and tips on boosting your chances of success.
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Contents
- 1 About Rivers State University
- 2 What Is a JAMB Cut Off Mark?
- 3 General JAMB Cut Off Mark for Rivers State University
- 4 RSU Departmental Cut Off Marks
- 5 How Rivers State University Calculates Admission
- 6 Why the Cut Off Mark Varies
- 7 Does RSU Accept Second Choice?
- 8 Other Admission Requirements
- 9 How to Prepare for RSU Admission
- 10 Conclusion
- 11 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
About Rivers State University
Rivers State University in Port Harcourt is one of Nigeria’s leading science, technology, and professional studies institutions. It became the first technological university in Nigeria and has grown into a centre of academic excellence with over seven faculties and a wide range of courses. RSU is popular for its Engineering, Law, Medicine, and Management Sciences programs.
What Is a JAMB Cut Off Mark?
Before we discuss the specifics for RSU, let’s clarify the JAMB cut-off mark. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) sets a general minimum score for Nigerian universities every year. However, each university has the right to set its own cut-off mark above the JAMB minimum based on its admission policies and competition levels.
The JAMB cut-off mark is the minimum score a candidate must get in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to be eligible for admission or to apply for the institution’s Post UTME.
General JAMB Cut Off Mark for Rivers State University
As of the 2024/2025 academic session, the JAMB cut off mark for Rivers State University is 180. You must score at least 180 in your JAMB UTME to be considered for RSU’s Post UTME screening. However, scoring 180 does not automatically guarantee admission—it only qualifies you to write the Post UTME.
It is also important to note that the general cut-off mark can change depending on several factors, such as candidates’ overall performance in JAMB and the number of applicants.
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RSU Departmental Cut Off Marks
Rivers State University doesn’t only rely on the general cut-off mark. The university also sets departmental cut-off marks based on the competitiveness of each course. Here are the current departmental cut-off marks for some major faculties:
Faculty of Engineering
- Civil Engineering – 220
- Electrical Engineering – 215
- Mechanical Engineering – 215
- Petroleum Engineering – 230
- Chemical Engineering – 225
Engineering is highly competitive at RSU. Applicants to this faculty should aim for a JAMB score of at least 215 and a strong post-UTME score.
Faculty of Law
- Law – 240
Law remains one of the most competitive courses in RSU. A JAMB score below 240 is unlikely to be cut unless accompanied by an exceptional Post UTME result.
Faculty of Management Sciences
- Accounting – 210
- Banking and Finance – 200
- Business Administration – 200
- Marketing – 190
These programs require a good blend of JAMB and Post UTME scores to stand a chance.
Faculty of Sciences
- Computer Science – 210
- Biochemistry – 200
- Microbiology – 200
- Physics – 180
- Mathematics – 180
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
- Medicine and Surgery – 250
- Nursing – 240
- Medical Laboratory Science – 230
These are the most competitive courses at RSU. Only top scorers in JAMB and Post UTME get selected.
Faculty of Education
- Education and Biology – 180
- Education and English – 180
- Education and Political Science – 180
Education-related programs have relatively lower cut-off marks but still require good performance in both JAMB and Post UTME.
READ ALSO: JAMB Cut Off Mark for Architectural Sciences
How Rivers State University Calculates Admission
RSU uses a screening method that combines your JAMB and Post UTME scores. Some departments use a 50:50 ratio, while others might weigh one more heavily than the other. Your aggregate score is what ultimately determines whether you gain admission.
Here’s a sample calculation method used by RSU:
Aggregate Score = (JAMB Score / 8) + (Post UTME Score / 2)
Let’s say you scored 240 in JAMB and 70 in Post UTME:
- JAMB: 240/8 = 30
- Post UTME: 70/2 = 35
- Total Aggregate = 65
This aggregate score is then compared to the departmental benchmark. If your score is equal to or above this benchmark, you stand a good chance of being selected.
Why the Cut Off Mark Varies
The JAMB cut off mark for Rivers State University isn’t always fixed. It may change yearly based on the following factors:
- Performance Trends: If JAMB scores are generally lower nationwide, the university may lower the cut-off.
- Course Demand: Highly sought-after programs have higher cut-off marks.
- Quota System: Departments have admission limits. More applications mean tougher competition.
Does RSU Accept Second Choice?
No, Rivers State University does not accept second-choice candidates. If you did not choose RSU as your first choice during your JAMB registration, you will not be considered for admission—even if you meet the cut-off mark. Candidates must change the institution on the JAMB portal if they wish to apply.
READ ALSO: JAMB Cut Off Mark for History and International Relations
Other Admission Requirements
Meeting the cut-off mark is just one part of the journey. Here are other requirements for gaining admission into RSU:
- O’Level Results: You must have at least five credit passes in relevant subjects, including Mathematics and English.
- Correct Subject Combination: Your JAMB subject combination must match your intended course of study.
- Post UTME Performance: You must participate in RSU’s Post UTME screening.
- Age Limit: Candidates must be at least 16 years old at admission.
How to Prepare for RSU Admission
Want to boost your chances? Here are practical tips:
1. Score Above the Cut-Off
Don’t settle for the minimum. Aim at least 20–30 points above the general cut-off, especially for competitive courses like Medicine, Law, or Engineering.
2. Study for Post UTME
RSU’s Post UTME is an essential part of the admission process. Prepare using past questions and study guides. Focus on your chosen subject combination.
3. Upload Correct Documents
Ensure your O’Level result is uploaded on the JAMB CAPS portal. Your admission won’t be processed even if you meet the cut-off.
4. Make RSU Your First Choice
RSU does not entertain second-choice applications. If you made a mistake during JAMB registration, correct it immediately via the JAMB Change of Institution option.
5. Monitor Admission Lists
Keep checking the RSU portal and JAMB CAPS for updates. Accept or reject admission offers as soon as they are made to avoid missing out.
Conclusion
The JAMB cut off mark for Rivers State University is the gateway to your admission journey. Whether aiming for Engineering, Law, Medicine, or the Social Sciences, the key is understanding the requirements and exceeding them. Your JAMB score opens the door, but your Post UTME score determines if you walk through it.
To stand out, start early, prepare diligently, and keep your eyes on every official announcement. Rivers State University is highly competitive, but your name can appear on the following admission list with the right strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the JAMB cut off mark for Rivers State University in 2025?
As of the latest updates, the JAMB cut-off mark for Rivers State University for the 2025 admission year is 180. Departmental cut-off marks vary by course.
Can I gain admission into RSU with a JAMB score of 180?
Yes, but only for less competitive courses. 180 won’t be sufficient for courses like law or medicine.
Does RSU conduct Post UTME?
Yes. RSU conducts Post UTME for all eligible candidates who meet the JAMB cut-off.
What is the cut-off mark for Medicine at RSU?
The departmental cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery at Rivers State University is 250.
Is the RSU Post UTME form out?
The post-UTME form for the 2025/2026 academic session is expected to be released between July and August. For announcements, check the official RSU website or trusted education blogs.

Aremu Lukman Umor is an SEO writer and journalist with over eight years of experience. His opinion articles have appeared in most Nigerian mainstream media, including PUNCH, Vanguard, Tribune, Daily Trust, This Day, Guardian and others.
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