Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) is a federal university in Bauchi, Bauchi State, owned by the Federal Government of Nigeria and founded in 1980. This guide covers ATBU’s background, faculties, 2026/2027 admission updates, requirements, screening, cut-off marks, school fees and how to check your admission status.
ATBU at a Glance
| Full name | Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University |
|---|---|
| Abbreviation | ATBU |
| Ownership | Federal university |
| Founded | 1980 |
| Location | Bauchi, Bauchi State |
| Campuses | Bauchi, Bauchi State |
| Other schools nearby | Universities, polytechnics and colleges of education in Bauchi State |
About ATBU
ATBU was established in 1980 as the Federal University of Technology, Bauchi, admitting its first students in October 1981. It was merged into Ahmadu Bello University in 1984 and regained autonomy in 1988 under its current name.
- Named after Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Nigeria's only prime minister
- Organised into schools rather than faculties
ATBU Faculties and Colleges
ATBU organises its programmes into the following faculties, schools or colleges:
- Engineering
- Science
- Environmental Technology
- Agriculture
- Management Technology
- Technology Education
- College of Medical Sciences
Check the JAMB brochure for the exact courses offered under each faculty and their UTME subject combinations. See our subject combination guide.
ATBU Admission 2026/2027
For 2026/2027, JAMB set 150 as the minimum UTME score for all universities, and public universities had until 31 October 2026 to conclude admissions. ATBU may set a higher screening mark for its programmes, especially competitive courses. We will add ATBU’s screening dates and cut-off marks here as soon as they are announced.
Latest ATBU Updates
ATBU Admission Requirements
- O’Level: five credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, usually in not more than two sittings (some courses require one).
- UTME: the correct subject combination for your course, with ATBU chosen as your institution.
- Score: at least JAMB’s 150 minimum and ATBU’s own screening mark for your course.
- Screening: participation in ATBU’s Post-UTME or document screening.
- Direct Entry: A’Level (JUPEB, IJMB), ND or NCE holders apply through JAMB Direct Entry. See Direct Entry explained.
How to Check ATBU Admission Status
- Log in to the JAMB e-Facility portal and open CAPS.
- Click Admission Status. If ATBU has offered you admission, accept it within four weeks.
- Print your JAMB admission letter, then follow ATBU’s acceptance fee and clearance instructions on its portal.
Work out your chances with our aggregate calculator.
ATBU School Fees
Fees at ATBU depend on your faculty and whether you are a fresh or returning student. Use only the fee schedule shown on your student portal. Read how university fees work and check whether you qualify for the NELFUND student loan.
Frequently Asked Questions about ATBU
Is ATBU a federal or state university?
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University is a federal university owned by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
When was ATBU founded?
ATBU was founded in 1980.
Where is ATBU located?
ATBU is in Bauchi, Bauchi State.
Can I change to ATBU after the UTME?
Yes, when JAMB’s change of institution window is open. See our change of course and institution guide.