Can I study International Relations with 280 in JAMB 2026?

Yes. A JAMB score of 280 qualifies for International Relations at 32 institutions in our 2026 dataset, where the cut-off is 280 or lower. Clearing the cut-off makes you eligible for post-UTME screening; the post-UTME aggregate then decides admission.

International Relations cut-off marks for 2026 range from 223 at the most accessible institutions to 252 at the most competitive, across the 32 institutions offering the course in this guide. JAMB's national minimum is 150, but the course-specific institutional cut-off is the figure that decides consideration.

Institutions with International Relations cut-offs closest to 280 include UNILAG (252), OAU (251), UI (250), UNN (247). Use the full table on this page to see every institution sorted by cut-off.

Three routes. First, apply for International Relations at a less competitive institution where the cut-off is at or below 280. Second, pick a related course in the same field with a lower cut-off. Third, use the change-of-course window during the JAMB cycle, or a longer path through polytechnic ND and Direct Entry, JUPEB or a pre-degree programme.

Yes. JAMB UTME can be retaken in the next admission cycle. If 280 falls short for International Relations, a focused retake aiming for 243+ opens the broader range of institutions. Run the retake plan in parallel with a polytechnic or pre-degree application so the year is not lost if the retake also falls short.

Often yes. State universities and newer federal universities frequently set lower International Relations cut-offs than the leading federal universities, and several private universities admit on the national minimum plus an internal screening. The trade-off is fees: federal sits at ₦40,000-₦200,000 per session, state ₦80,000-₦400,000, private ₦600,000 and above.