Are you an aspiring student looking to secure admission into the prestigious Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) in Bauchi? Then you’re in the right place. ATBU is one of Nigeria’s leading federal universities dedicated to science, engineering, and technological innovation. As with any tertiary institution in the country, understanding the JAMB cut-off marks and admission requirements is essential to boost your chances of getting admitted.
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from general JAMB requirements and departmental cut-offs to Post-UTME screenings, O’Level criteria, Direct Entry conditions, and more for the 2024/2025 academic session.
About ATBU
Established in 1980 and named after Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, ATBU is a technology-focused university based in Bauchi State. The university is known for its commitment to producing skilled graduates in various scientific, engineering, and management fields.
It boasts a wide array of programs across faculties such as:
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Engineering and Engineering Technology
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Science
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Management Technology
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Environmental Technology
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Agriculture and Agricultural Technology
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Education
With an excellent reputation in research and practical skill development, ATBU is a top destination for many candidates looking to pursue degrees in science and technology disciplines.
What is the JAMB Cut-Off Mark for ATBU in 2024?
For the 2024/2025 academic session, the official JAMB cut-off mark for ATBU is 160. This means that candidates who selected ATBU as their first choice during JAMB registration and scored 160 or above in the UTME are eligible to participate in the university’s Post-UTME screening.
While 160 is the general cut-off, keep in mind that it does not guarantee admission into all courses. Some competitive programs require higher scores, especially in faculties like Engineering and Science.
Departmental Cut-Off Marks at ATBU
In addition to the general cut-off, ATBU applies departmental cut-off marks. These vary depending on:
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The number of applicants to each program
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Available admission slots
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Candidates’ overall UTME and Post-UTME performance
Here’s a rough guide based on past admission cycles (these are not official for 2024, but give you an idea):
Course/Department | Estimated Cut-Off |
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Civil Engineering | 200+ |
Mechanical Engineering | 200+ |
Computer Science | 190+ |
Architecture | 190+ |
Agricultural Science | 180+ |
Educational Technology | 160+ |
For the most accurate cut-off marks per course, you should always check ATBU's official website or Post-UTME portal after screening dates are announced.
O’Level Admission Requirements
Apart from the UTME score, candidates must meet ATBU's O'Level requirements, which include:
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Five Credit Passes: Including English Language and Mathematics and three other subjects relevant to the intended course of study.
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Accepted Exam Bodies: WAEC, NECO, GCE, and NABTEB results are accepted.
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Two-Sitting Limit: The required credits must be obtained in not more than two sittings.
For example, a candidate applying for Mechanical Engineering must have credit passes in subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, English, and possibly Further Mathematics or Technical Drawing.
Be sure to confirm the exact subject requirements for your course via the JAMB brochure or ATBU website.
Direct Entry Admission Requirements
ATBU also admits qualified students through Direct Entry (DE). Here are the general criteria:
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Advanced Level Passes: Candidates must have at least two A-Level passes in relevant subjects.
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National Diploma (ND): Minimum of Upper Credit from a recognized institution.
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NCE Candidates: Should have at least a Merit Pass in a relevant teaching subject.
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O'Level Requirements Still Apply: DE candidates must also meet the five-credit minimum from WAEC/NECO/NABTEB as mentioned above.
Direct Entry candidates must apply through JAMB and participate in the ATBU screening exercise like UTME candidates.
ATBU Post-UTME Screening Process
Candidates who meet the JAMB and O’Level requirements must then take part in the Post-UTME screening. Here's what to expect:
1. Post-UTME Registration
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Done online via the ATBU portal
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Usually requires a fee (₦2,000 - ₦3,000)
2. Aptitude Test or Screening
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Some faculties conduct a computer-based test (CBT)
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Others might use a screening format based on submitted results only
3. Document Verification
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Includes WAEC/NECO result, birth certificate, JAMB score slip, and other credentials
4. Interview (Rare Cases)
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Occasionally, some programs may include oral interviews or departmental assessments
The outcome of the Post-UTME plays a major role in final admission decisions, so it's crucial to prepare adequately.
General Admission Requirements for ATBU
To summarize, here are the key requirements for gaining admission into ATBU:
Criteria | Requirements |
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UTME Score | 160 and above (higher for competitive courses) |
Post-UTME | Must participate in screening exercise |
O’Level Credits | Minimum of 5, including English & Mathematics |
Age Requirement | Must be at least 16 years old by Oct 1, 2024 |
First Choice Institution | Must have selected ATBU as first choice in JAMB |
Direct Entry | ND/NCE/A-Level qualifications with required grades |
How to Apply for ATBU Admission
Here’s a step-by-step overview of the application process:
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Register for JAMB UTME and select ATBU as your first-choice university
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Sit for the UTME, aiming for 160+ or higher for your desired course
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When Post-UTME opens, visit the official ATBU portal to register and pay the screening fee
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Upload all required documents and await the screening schedule
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Take the Post-UTME exam or complete the online screening, depending on the process
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Monitor your admission status on both JAMB CAPS and ATBU’s website
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Once admitted, accept the offer, pay your acceptance fee, and proceed with registration
Final Tips for Admission Success at ATBU
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Start preparing early: Especially for Post-UTME. Review past questions and practice CBT formats.
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Use the correct subject combination: This is one of the most common reasons candidates are denied admission.
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Keep all credentials ready: Birth certificate, LGA certificate, JAMB result, etc.
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Stay updated: Follow ATBU’s official website and verified social media accounts.
Conclusion
Gaining admission into Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) is achievable with the right preparation and strategy. By understanding the JAMB and departmental cut-off marks, meeting all O’Level requirements, and excelling in the Post-UTME, you increase your chances of becoming part of this prestigious institution. Whether you’re applying through UTME or Direct Entry, ATBU offers a solid foundation for your academic and professional journey.
Best of luck with your application to ATBU for the 2024/2025 academic session!