.jpeg "Cut-off mark for Economics in UNILAG")
The admission landscape for the Department of Economics at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) represents one of the most intellectually rigorous and competitive entry points within the Nigerian tertiary education system. As a premier institution often referred to as "the University of First Choice," UNILAG employs a sophisticated composite scoring system to ensure that only the most academically elite candidates are admitted into its highly coveted Economics program.
For the 2025/2026 Academic Session, the University has established a merit-based threshold that reflects both the high volume of applicants and the increasing quality of secondary education outcomes in the country.
The Merit Admission Architecture (2025/2026)
To secure a place in the Department of Economics under the Merit Category—which is the most transparent and competitive entry window—candidates must navigate a multi-layered evaluation process.
|
Metric |
Requirement |
|---|---|
|
Merit Cut-off Mark |
73.475 |
|
Minimum UTME Score |
200 |
|
Faculty Ranking |
Top-Tier (Social Sciences) |
Theoretical Breakdown of the Composite Score
The University of Lagos utilizes a weighted average system to calculate the final aggregate score of a candidate. This is mathematically expressed through three core components:
- O’Level Results (20%): Points are assigned based on the grades obtained in five core subjects (Mathematics, English, Economics, and two others). Distinctions (A1) carry the highest weight.
- UTME Score (50%): The Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination score is divided by 8 to scale it to a 50-point maximum.
- Post-UTME Screening (30%): An internal computer-based test conducted by the University to assess aptitude in Mathematics, English, and General Paper.
The figure 73.475 represents the summation of these three variables. A candidate scoring below this threshold, even with a high UTME score, may fail to secure merit admission if their O'Level or Post-UTME performance is suboptimal.
Strategic Analysis of Economics at UNILAG
High Competition and Demand Elasticity
Economics at UNILAG is not merely a social science course; it is viewed as a gateway to the global financial sector, consultancy, and data analytics. The high cut-off mark of 73.475 is a direct consequence of the "prestige factor" associated with the department, which boasts an alumni network that dominates the Nigerian banking and policy-making sectors.
The "200" UTME Floor
While the national minimum cut-off may fluctuate, UNILAG maintains a strict 200-point floor for Economics. However, theoretically and statistically, a candidate with exactly 200 in JAMB would find it nearly impossible to reach the 73.475 aggregate unless they achieve a perfect score in the Post-UTME and straight A1s in their O'Levels. Therefore, the "minimum" is a legal requirement, but the "competitive" UTME score for this session typically sits above 280.
Faculty Standing
Within the Faculty of Social Sciences, Economics consistently maintains the highest or second-highest cut-off mark, often rivaling or surpassing Mass Communication and Political Science. This indicates a high "selectivity index," where the university filters for candidates with strong quantitative and analytical reasoning skills.
Conclusion
The 73.475 merit cut-off for the 2025/2026 session serves as a benchmark of academic excellence. It necessitates a balanced performance across all entry examinations. For prospective scholars, this score is the definitive "Price of Entry" into a department that remains a cornerstone of economic thought in West Africa.
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