The University of Cape Coast (UCC) cut off points for the 2024/2025 academic year have been officially released. These cut-off points determine the minimum aggregate score required for admission into each undergraduate programme. Competitive courses like Medicine, Nursing, and Law require lower aggregates (around 06–10), while less competitive ones like Arts and Education have higher limits (20–36). This guide provides the full list of UCC cut off points, admission requirements, how to apply, and projected updates for 2025/2026.
Understanding UCC Cut Off Points and How They Work
UCC cut off points represent the minimum academic standard that applicants must meet to be considered for admission. Every academic year, these figures change slightly depending on applicant performance, available slots, and national policy.
What is a Cut Off Point at the University of Cape Coast?
A cut off point is the lowest aggregate score an applicant can obtain in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) or Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSSCE) to qualify for a particular programme. For instance, an aggregate 08 for Nursing means only candidates who scored 08 or better (lower is better) may be admitted to that programme. Cut off points are not fixed for all universities. They reflect how competitive each course is within a given admission cycle.
How UCC Calculates Admission Aggregates (WASSCE/SSSCE Grading System)
UCC uses the standard WAEC aggregate system based on grades in six subjects – three core and three electives. The grades are converted into numerical aggregates. A1 equals 1 point, B2 equals 2 points, and so on. The best six subjects are summed up to form the applicant’s aggregate. A perfect score is 6 (all A1s), while the maximum acceptable aggregate for admission is typically 36.
Core subjects include English Language, Mathematics, and either Integrated Science or Social Studies. The other three subjects depend on the applicant’s chosen programme. For example, Nursing requires science electives like Biology and Chemistry, while Business Administration may consider Accounting and Economics.
Factors That Determine UCC Cut Off Points Each Year
Cut off points are influenced by demand for programmes, availability of spaces, applicant performance, and national education policies. Highly sought-after programmes like Medicine, Law, and Pharmacy often have cut-offs as low as aggregate 06 or 08 due to limited intake. Meanwhile, programmes in Education, Arts, and Humanities tend to have higher aggregates because of greater capacity.
Practical tip: Applicants should choose second-choice programmes with slightly higher aggregates to improve admission chances.
UCC Admission Requirements 2024/2025
Before applying, every candidate must meet the general entry requirements set by UCC and the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC).
General WASSCE and SSSCE Entry Requirements
Applicants must have passes (A1–C6 in WASSCE or A–D in SSSCE) in six subjects comprising three core and three relevant electives. The overall aggregate should not exceed 36 for WASSCE or 24 for SSSCE. Core subjects are English, Mathematics, and either Integrated Science or Social Studies. For programmes in the sciences, Integrated Science is mandatory, while Social Studies is considered for arts-related programmes.
Core and Elective Subject Combinations
Each faculty specifies unique subject combinations. For example:
- Medicine: Biology, Chemistry, Physics
- Law: Literature in English, Government, Christian Religious Studies
- Computer Science: Physics, Elective Mathematics, ICT
- Accounting: Economics, Business Management, Elective Mathematics
Students who combine the wrong electives risk disqualification even if their aggregate meets the cut-off.
Fee-Paying and Mature Applicant Options at UCC
Applicants whose aggregates are slightly higher than the regular cut-off may apply under the fee-paying option. Fee-paying students cover additional tuition costs but follow the same academic curriculum. Mature applicants (aged 25 and above) may also apply after passing an entrance examination and interview.
Requirements for Distance and Sandwich Programmes
UCC offers Distance Education through the College of Distance Education (CoDE) for applicants who wish to study off-campus. These programmes generally have more flexible entry aggregates and are ideal for working professionals or mature students. Sandwich programmes are short-term modular courses run during vacations for diploma and degree seekers.
UCC Cut Off Points 2024/2025 – Full Course List
The table below provides an overview of the official UCC cut off points for the 2024/2025 academic year. These figures reflect the competitiveness of each programme and may vary slightly during the final admission process.
College of Health and Allied Sciences
- Medicine and Surgery – 06
- Nursing – 08
- Physician Assistant – 09
- Pharmacy – 08
- Biomedical Science – 10
- Medical Laboratory Technology – 11
These programmes have the strictest entry requirements due to limited capacity and high demand. Applicants should aim for strong aggregates in core science subjects.
College of Education Studies
- Early Childhood Education – 24
- Basic Education – 20
- Science Education – 18
- Social Studies Education – 20
- Mathematics Education – 18
Education programmes are among the most accessible, attracting many applicants who wish to become teachers or education specialists.
College of Humanities and Legal Studies
- Law – 09
- Communication Studies – 14
- Economics – 15
- Geography and Regional Planning – 18
- History – 20
- Sociology – 22
Law remains one of the most competitive programmes, while the humanities offer broader admission opportunities.
College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences
- Agriculture – 24
- Biological Sciences – 15
- Chemistry – 16
- Environmental Science – 17
- Computer Science – 12
Computer Science continues to rise in popularity as Ghana’s digital economy expands.
Business and Administration Programmes
- Accounting – 10
- Banking and Finance – 12
- Management Studies – 12
- Human Resource Management – 13
- Marketing – 14
Business-related programmes maintain moderate competitiveness, combining analytical and management skills.
Arts and Humanities Programmes
- English Language – 22
- French – 24
- Religion and Human Values – 26
- Theatre Studies – 28
- Music – 30
These programmes provide flexible pathways for students interested in communication, media, and cultural studies.
Note: Cut off points may change each year. Applicants should always verify the latest updates from the official UCC admissions portal: admissions.ucc.edu.gh.
UCC Cut Off Points 2025/2026 (Projected & Historical Trends)
Cut off points for 2025/2026 are expected to follow a similar trend to 2024/2025. Based on UCC’s historical data, only minor changes occur annually unless there’s a policy shift or an increase in applicant numbers.
Historical Changes in Cut Off Points (2022–2025)
In 2022/2023, Nursing had a cut off of 09; in 2023/2024, it dropped to 08 due to higher performance. Medicine has remained consistently around 06–07. Computer Science moved from 13 to 12 as the field became more competitive. These shifts reflect the overall increase in WASSCE performance and student interest in STEM and health programmes.
Predicted Cut Off Ranges for 2025/2026 Admissions
- Medicine: 06–07
- Nursing: 08–09
- Pharmacy: 08–09
- Computer Science: 12
- Law: 09–10
- Education Programmes: 20–36
Factors That Could Affect 2025/26 Cut Offs
Factors include total number of applicants, available facilities, and national quota systems. UCC may also introduce new degree programmes, which could redistribute demand and impact cut-off ranges.
How to Apply for UCC Admission 2024/2025
Applying for admission to UCC is simple and entirely online. The process involves purchasing an e-voucher, filling in your details on the application portal, and submitting required documents.
Step-by-Step UCC Online Application Process
- Purchase an admission e-voucher from Ghana Post, ADB, or GCB Bank.
- Visit apply.ucc.edu.gh.
- Enter the serial number and PIN on your voucher.
- Fill out the online form accurately with personal, academic, and programme details.
- Upload scanned copies of certificates or result slips.
- Review your application before submission.
- Print and keep a copy for reference.
Where to Buy UCC Admission Voucher
Vouchers are available at all regional Ghana Post offices and designated bank branches. Applicants abroad can use the UCC international payment portal.
Important Admission Deadlines and Fees
UCC typically opens applications between February and July each year. Late applications are not accepted. The admission fee for local applicants ranges between GHS 220–250, while international applicants pay online equivalents.
Checking UCC Admission Status Online
After submission, applicants can check their admission status through admissions.ucc.edu.gh using their voucher details. Successful candidates will find admission letters ready for download.
Fee-Paying, Distance & Special Admission Categories
Fee-Paying Admission Explained
Fee-paying admission offers another route for applicants who narrowly miss regular cut-offs. These students pay higher fees but are otherwise treated the same academically. For instance, an applicant with aggregate 12 may still gain admission to Medicine under the fee-paying category.
UCC Distance Learning and Sandwich Programmes
The University’s College of Distance Education (CoDE) offers flexible courses in Business, Education, and Science. Sandwich programmes operate during vacation periods, ideal for diploma holders or teachers seeking degree upgrades. Distance applicants can study in regional centers like Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale.
International Student Admission Requirements
Foreign applicants must present equivalent qualifications recognized by GTEC and proof of English proficiency. They may be exempt from WASSCE requirements but must submit certified transcripts and passport data pages.
Comparing UCC Cut Off Points with Other Ghanaian Universities
When compared with other top universities, UCC maintains similar competitiveness.
UCC vs University of Ghana (Legon)
Both institutions share comparable standards for Health and Business programmes. However, UCC’s Nursing and Pharmacy programmes often require slightly lower aggregates, making it marginally more accessible.
UCC vs KNUST (Kumasi)
KNUST’s Engineering and Architecture programmes are generally tougher to enter, while UCC dominates in Education and Humanities. Applicants interested in teacher training or liberal arts often prefer UCC.
Which University Has the Lowest Cut Off Points in Ghana?
Education-focused universities such as UEW (University of Education, Winneba) and UCC have more flexible cut-offs for teaching-related programmes compared to the University of Ghana and KNUST.
FAQs About UCC Cut Off Points and Admissions
What is the cut off point for Nursing at UCC?
The official cut off point for Nursing at UCC in 2024/2025 is aggregate 08.
Can I gain admission to UCC with aggregate 24?
Yes, you can gain admission into less competitive programmes such as Education or Humanities with aggregate 24.
Does UCC accept D7 in any subject?
No. UCC requires at least C6 in all six subjects. D7 is not an acceptable grade for admission.
How can I get the UCC cut off points 2024/2025 PDF?
You can download the official PDF from admissions.ucc.edu.gh or request it via the university’s Admission Office.
Are UCC cut off points the same for fee-paying students?
No. Fee-paying programmes usually have slightly higher aggregate allowances, depending on demand.
How do I check if I’ve been admitted to UCC?
Visit admissions.ucc.edu.gh, enter your voucher details, and view your admission status.
When will UCC admission forms for 2025/2026 be out?
Forms are expected to go on sale between February and March 2025.
Conclusion – Preparing for UCC Admission 2025/2026
Meeting the UCC cut off point is the first step toward gaining admission, but applicants should also focus on correct subject combinations and timely applications. Always cross-check details on official university portals and avoid relying solely on third-party sources. With proper preparation and awareness of your programme’s requirements, your UCC admission goal is entirely achievable.
Visit apply.ucc.edu.gh to start your UCC application today or bookmark this guide for yearly updates.