JAMB UTME 2025: Why Did So Many Students Score Below 200?

The 2025 JAMB UTME results are in, and the statistics are raising serious questions. Out of 1.94 million candidates, more than 75% scored below 200, with only a small percentage managing to score above 300. These numbers aren’t just numbers, they point to a much deeper issue.

What’s really going on?

We know that JAMB has highlighted issues like malpractice and biometric fraud, with nearly 40,000 results being withheld. But beyond that, there’s a pressing question we need to address: Are students preparing enough for their exams?

Could it be that students are relying too much on “expo” and last-minute cramming? Are schools not adequately preparing students for CBT-style exams? And more importantly, how much is the distraction of social media, particularly platforms like TikTok, playing a role?

In today’s world, it’s hard to ignore the pull of social media. While TikTok has become an entertaining way to relax, it’s also a major distraction for many students. With viral trends, funny videos, and endless scrolling, it’s no surprise that students often find themselves spending hours watching TikTok dances, challenges, and memes instead of revising.

• Are TikTok trends stealing your study time? It’s easy to get lost in the never-ending stream of viral videos and forget the exam that’s just around the corner.
• How much of a role does social media play in preventing students from being fully focused on their studies? While platforms like TikTok can offer educational content, they are often overshadowed by entertainment that pulls students away from serious study time.

It’s clear that something needs to change. The fact that so many students scored below 200 isn’t just a reflection of their individual efforts, it also points to a broader issue with how we approach education and time management.

To all the students who didn’t get the score they hoped for: this is not the end. Don’t let one result define your journey. Failure is not final. Take this moment to reflect, reassess your approach, and come back stronger. You’ve got a whole year to prepare, and with the right focus and effort, next year can be your year.

Let’s have an honest conversation:

• What do you think is the real cause of the low performance in this year’s UTME? Is social media a major contributor?
• What can be done differently to help students prepare better for exams?
• How can students manage their time between entertainment and academics?

For those who passed: What worked for you? How did you manage distractions and stay focused?

Drop a comment below, your experience or advice could help someone else prepare better for next time.