Schools With The Lowest Cut-Off Mark For Nursing In Nigeria As At 2026

Nursing is one of the most admired health-science careers in Nigeria today. Students line up for it every admission cycle because of its steady salary, global demand, and the chance to save lives. Yet many aspirants quietly worry about the same thing: the cut-off mark. Federal flagships such as UNILAG, UNN, and OAU regularly demand JAMB scores of 240 and above for Nursing Science, leaving thousands of bright candidates outside the gate.

That does not mean the dream ends there. Several accredited universities and colleges still admit candidates with UTME scores between 160 and 200. If your JAMB result sits within that range, this guide is built for you. We have compiled the verified Schools with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria for the 2026/2027 session, drawing from JAMB policy releases, institutional admission briefs, and NUC accreditation records. Every school listed here holds a valid Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) accreditation.

Understanding the Nursing Cut-Off Mark System

Before checking the list of schools, you need to grasp how cut-off marks actually work in Nigeria. JAMB operates a two-tier benchmark. The national minimum score for universities sits at 150, while the Colleges of Nursing Sciences baseline is 140. These figures are floors, not admission guarantees.

Each university then fixes its own departmental cut-off based on competition, bed-space for clinical rotations, staff strength, and NUC accreditation status. A university may publish a general cut-off of 180 while quietly requiring 230 for Nursing because the programme is oversubscribed. Student aspirants who skip this detail often lose admission slots.

For the 2026/2027 cycle, expect three clear bands. Top federal universities sit between 220 and 280. Middle-tier federal and state universities range from 180 to 220. Many private universities, newer federal institutions, and state-owned Colleges of Nursing Science accept scores from 140 to 180. The Schools with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria fall into the second and third bands, giving you realistic entry routes even when your UTME score isn’t sky-high.

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Why Nursing Cut-Off Marks Vary Between Institutions

Several quiet factors shape where each school sets its bar. Competition is the biggest driver. Universities with international rankings attract thousands of first-choice applicants, forcing a higher cut-off. Less famous institutions or those in less populated states receive fewer applications, so they keep their bar friendly to boost enrolment.

Ownership also plays a role. Private universities depend on tuition income, so they often set a generous minimum to attract more candidates. Federal universities, funded by government, can afford to be selective. Catchment area policy adds another layer; federal universities reserve slots for candidates from surrounding states and educationally less-developed states (ELDS), which softens the working cut-off for those applicants.

Finally, programme age matters. A university whose Nursing department just secured NUC interim accreditation usually opens with a lower bar until the course builds a reputation. This window is precisely why the Schools with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria list keeps refreshing every admission year.

Federal Universities With Lower Nursing Cut-Off Marks

Several federal universities, particularly newer ones and those outside the South-West and South-East corridors, accept JAMB scores from 180 upwards for Nursing Science. The table below captures the current Schools with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria within the federal category for the 2026/2027 admission exercise.

Table 1: Federal Universities Offering Nursing with Friendly Cut-Offs

Institution State Nursing Cut-Off
University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) Borno 180
University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) Rivers 180
Bayero University Kano (BUK) Kano 180 – 200
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) Bauchi 180
Federal University Lafia (FULafia) Nasarawa 200
Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila Orangun Osun 180 – 200
Federal University Dutse (FUD) Jigawa 180
Federal University, Otuoke Bayelsa 180
Federal University, Gashua Yobe 180

These institutions hold full or interim NUC accreditation for Nursing Science and produce graduates who sit the NMCN licensing examination. Once licensed, graduates can also convert internationally through the NMC-UK, NCLEX-USA, or HAAD routes.

State Universities With Approachable Nursing Cut-Off Marks

State-owned universities offer another realistic route for candidates on a modest JAMB score. Many of them charge friendlier tuition compared to private institutions and still operate solid Nursing programmes. Several also participate in catchment-area admission schemes that further soften the working cut-off.

Table 2: State Universities With Lower Nursing Cut-Off Marks

Institution State Nursing Cut-Off
Benue State University, Makurdi (BSU) Benue 160 – 180
Ebonyi State University (EBSU) Ebonyi 180
Kaduna State University (KASU) Kaduna 180 – 200
Gombe State University (GSU) Gombe 180
Taraba State University (TSU) Taraba 170 – 180
Yobe State University (YSU) Yobe 160 – 180
Adamawa State University (ADSU) Adamawa 170
Niger Delta University (NDU) Bayelsa 180
Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU) Kogi 180

Pairing a strong post-UTME performance with the right O’Level grades gives you real leverage at these institutions. Most of these schools appear on nearly every credible listing of the Schools with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria, and their tuition profile makes them favourites for families seeking affordable medical education.

Private Universities With Accessible Nursing Cut-Off Marks

Private universities are often the quickest route for candidates with scores between 160 and 200. Many run fully accredited Nursing programmes, accept direct payment of fees, and admit students through their own internal post-UTME screening. They also tend to have smaller class sizes, meaning better clinical supervision.

Table 3: Private Universities With Lower Nursing Cut-Off Marks

Institution State Nursing Cut-Off
Madonna University Anambra / Rivers 180 – 200
Bingham University Nasarawa 180
PAMO University of Medical Sciences Rivers 160 – 180
Novena University Delta 180
Igbinedion University, Okada Edo 180
Lead City University Oyo 180
Clifford University Abia 180
Achievers University Ondo 160
Rhema University Abia 160
Adeleke University Osun 160 – 180
Bowen University Osun 180

Private institutions usually attach higher tuition fees, so weigh your finances carefully before accepting an offer. Even so, if your JAMB score feels shaky, the Schools with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria within the private category offer the safest soft landing for Nursing aspirants.

Colleges of Nursing Sciences and Schools of Nursing

Beyond universities, state-owned Schools of Nursing and Colleges of Nursing Sciences run degree programmes in partnership with universities or operate as standalone institutions awarding Registered Nurse (RN) and Registered Midwife (RM) certificates. Many of these colleges now also run full BNSc programmes affiliated to universities.

Table 4: Nursing Colleges With Accessible JAMB Cut-Off Marks

College / School of Nursing State JAMB Cut-Off
School of Nursing, Umuahia Abia 150
School of Nursing, Yola Adamawa 160
School of Nursing, Anua, Uyo Akwa Ibom 150
School of Nursing, Eket Akwa Ibom 150
School of Peri-operative Nursing, FMC Yola Adamawa 140
Archbishop Charles Heerey Memorial College of Nursing Abia 150
School of Post Basic Midwifery, Abiriba Abia 160
School of Nursing, ABSUTH, Aba Abia 160

These programmes produce NMCN-licensed nurses who can later upgrade to a BNSc degree through a direct-entry route at any accredited university. Many practising nurses in Nigeria today started on this exact pathway, which is why the Schools with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria always includes state-owned colleges alongside degree-awarding institutions.

 

What is the Minimum Cut-Off Mark for Nursing in Nigeria?

The minimum JAMB score required for Nursing admission varies widely across Nigerian institutions. While JAMB sets a general baseline, each university or college establishes its own specific requirements based on competitiveness and available spaces.

Understanding the Numbers:

For federal universities, expect cut-off marks ranging from 200 to 290. Top-tier institutions like Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria require extremely high scores – sometimes reaching 290 – because they receive overwhelming applications for limited slots. Universities of Lagos and Ibadan typically set their bars around 240 or higher.

State-owned universities operate in the middle range, usually between 200 and 230. These institutions balance academic standards with accessibility, making them viable options for students with good but not exceptional JAMB scores.

Private universities offer more flexibility, with requirements spanning 140 to 200. Schools like Madonna University and Achievers University set competitive but achievable standards around 190-200 for Nursing specifically.

Schools of Nursing – which award diplomas rather than degrees – maintain the most accessible entry points, typically between 140 and 180. These institutions focus exclusively on nursing training and provide direct pathways into the profession.

 

States Where Nursing Admission is Easier to Get

Geography significantly impacts your admission chances. Some states offer more accessible pathways into Nursing programs due to lower competition, newer institutions, or higher admission quotas.

North Central Opportunities:

Nasarawa State hosts several institutions with reasonable entry requirements. The College of Nursing in Lafia accepts candidates scoring 180-200, while Federal University of Lafia sets its Nursing cut-off at 210. Kogi State’s institutions, including the rebranded Prince Abubakar Audu University, maintain competitive but achievable standards.

North East Advantages:

States like Gombe, Yobe, and Jigawa house federal universities with notably lower cut-offs. Federal University Kashere in Gombe, Federal University Gashua in Yobe, and Federal University Dutse in Jigawa all accept Nursing candidates with scores around 150-160. These institutions struggle less with overcrowding, creating better odds for applicants.

South South Options:

Delta State operates multiple Schools of Nursing across Agbor, Eku, and Warri, with cut-offs hovering around 150-160. Cross River State similarly maintains accessible standards across its nursing schools. These diploma programs provide solid clinical training despite lower entry requirements.

South East Prospects:

Abia and Enugu states run several Schools of Nursing with 150-point entry marks. Institutions like Bishop Shanahan Hospital’s School of Nursing in Nsukka and various Abia State programs offer quality training without prohibitive competition.

Why These States Have Easier Admission:

Several factors explain these patterns. Rural or less urbanized states attract fewer applicants, reducing competition. Newer universities haven’t yet built the fierce reputations that drive excessive applications. Some states invest heavily in nursing education, creating more available slots. Understanding these dynamics helps you identify genuine opportunities rather than just chasing low numbers.

Federal vs State vs Private Nursing Schools

Each category of institution offers distinct advantages and challenges. Your choice should align with your financial situation, academic standing, and career timeline.

Federal Universities

Federal universities deliver the most recognized degrees and typically operate with superior facilities. Government funding ensures access to modern laboratories, well-stocked libraries, and established teaching hospitals for clinical rotations. Tuition remains remarkably affordable, rarely exceeding ₦120,000 annually.

However, admission is brutally competitive. Top federal schools receive ten times more applications than available spaces, pushing cut-offs to 240 or higher. Even after gaining admission, students may face occasional disruptions from strikes or funding delays. The academic calendar can stretch unpredictably.

State Universities 

State-owned institutions balance quality with accessibility. They maintain respectable academic standards while operating with more achievable cut-off marks between 200-230. Many prioritize indigenes through reserved quotas, giving local students significant advantages.

Tuition costs more than federal schools but remains manageable, typically ranging from ₦80,000 to ₦250,000 per session. Clinical training quality varies by state – universities in wealthier states like Lagos operate better facilities than those in less-funded regions.

The main limitation is inconsistency. Some state universities match federal standards while others struggle with inadequate funding, affecting everything from laboratory equipment to lecturer quality.

Private Universities 

Private institutions offer the smoothest admission process. With cut-offs as low as 140-190, they accept students federal and state schools would reject. Academic calendars run like clockwork with no strikes disrupting your progression. You’ll likely complete your degree faster and more predictably.

The trade-off is cost. Annual tuition ranges from ₦800,000 to ₦2,500,000, placing private education beyond most families’ reach. Some private schools also lack the extensive clinical networks federal universities maintain, potentially limiting hands-on training opportunities.

Quality varies dramatically among private institutions. Well-established schools like Babcock and Madonna deliver excellent education, while newer, less-reputable ones may cut corners.

Schools of Nursing 

Diploma-granting Schools of Nursing concentrate exclusively on practical nursing training. Entry requirements stay low (140-180), making them accessible to students with modest JAMB scores. Clinical exposure often surpasses university programs because the entire curriculum revolves around bedside nursing.

The diploma pathway works well for students eager to start working quickly. After completing your RN certification, you can work while pursuing a degree through part-time or conversion programs. This approach lets you earn while learning and gain valuable experience early.

The limitation is career ceiling. Hospital leadership positions and specialized roles increasingly require bachelor’s or master’s degrees. You’ll eventually need further education to advance beyond staff nursing roles.

 

Do Low Cut-Off Nursing Schools Offer Quality Education?

This question troubles many students and parents. The assumption that low cut-offs signal poor quality doesn’t always hold true.

Accreditation Trumps Cut-Off Marks:

Every Nursing program in Nigeria must secure approval from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria and, for degree programs, the National Universities Commission. These bodies enforce strict standards covering curriculum content, clinical hours, faculty qualifications, and facilities.

A school maintaining NMCN accreditation delivers education meeting national standards regardless of its cut-off mark. The accreditation process evaluates what matters – teaching quality, clinical training, and graduate competence – not how selective admission is.

Why Quality Schools Sometimes Have Low Cut-Offs:

Location explains most low cut-offs. A federal university in a remote northern state competes differently than one in Lagos or Abuja. Distance, perceived development level, and unfamiliarity drive away applicants who might otherwise qualify, keeping cut-offs artificially low despite solid programs.

Institutional age also matters. Newly established universities haven’t built reputations yet, regardless of their actual quality. A ten-year-old federal school may deliver education matching a fifty-year-old peer while attracting fewer applicants simply because students haven’t heard of it.

Capacity differences create another factor. Some universities deliberately expand Nursing enrollment, creating more slots that reduce competition without compromising standards. A school admitting 200 nursing students will have lower cut-offs than one taking only 50, even if both maintain identical academic rigor.

Warning Signs of Genuinely Poor Quality:

Some red flags do indicate problems. Schools lacking current NMCN accreditation should be avoided completely – graduates may struggle gaining nursing licensure. Institutions without teaching hospital partnerships can’t provide adequate clinical training, however good their classroom instruction.

Faculty credentials matter significantly. Programs staffed primarily by lecturers holding only bachelor’s degrees rather than masters or doctorates may lack depth. Physical facilities – laboratories, simulation centers, libraries – should be assessed during campus visits.

Graduate outcomes tell the real story. Schools producing nurses who consistently pass licensing exams and secure employment demonstrate quality regardless of entry requirements. Ask admissions offices about pass rates and job placement statistics.

Making Informed Choices:

Research thoroughly before judging based on cut-off marks alone. Visit campuses if possible. Speak with current students and recent graduates. Verify accreditation status through NMCN and NUC websites. Check teaching hospital affiliations and clinical rotation arrangements.

A low cut-off at a well-accredited, properly equipped school in an underserved area represents opportunity, not compromise. Conversely, a higher cut-off at an institution with accreditation issues or poor facilities should raise concerns.

Cheapest Nursing Schools With Low Cut-Off Marks

Financial constraints force many capable students to prioritize affordability alongside accessibility.

Federal Universities 

Federal universities deliver the best cost-to-quality ratio. Annual fees rarely exceed ₦80,000-₦120,000, covering tuition, laboratory fees, and facility maintenance. Schools like Federal University Lokoja, Federal University Dutse, and Federal University Kashere combine 150-point cut-offs with federal government subsidies keeping costs minimal.

These institutions don’t charge differently for Nursing than other courses, unlike some universities that impose premium fees for medical programs. Your total undergraduate costs might reach only ₦300,000-₦400,000 across five years – remarkably affordable for professional healthcare education.

State Universities for Indigenes:

State universities typically charge indigenes significantly less than non-indigenes. If you’re studying in your home state, annual fees might range ₦50,000-₦150,000. Non-indigenes pay more, sometimes double, but costs still beat private alternatives.

States like Abia, Imo, and Nasarawa run nursing programs with modest entry requirements and reasonable fees. Verify current fee structures directly with institutions since states adjust annually.

Schools of Nursing 

Diploma programs generally cost less than degree programs. Many Schools of Nursing charge ₦100,000-₦250,000 annually, providing full nursing training over three years. Your total program cost might stay under ₦750,000 – a fraction of private university expenses.

Government-owned Schools of Nursing attached to teaching hospitals often charge less than privately-run ones. Federal teaching hospital nursing schools maintain particularly affordable fees thanks to federal subsidies.

 

 

College of Nursing Lafia Cut-Off Mark

The Nasarawa State College of Nursing Sciences in Lafia maintains its cut-off between 180-200 depending on application volume and candidate performance. This institution benefits from federal university proximity – students can later pursue degree advancement at Federal University of Lafia after completing their diplomas.

The college emphasizes clinical excellence through partnerships with Dantata and Sawoe General Hospital and Federal Medical Centre Keffi. Their graduates consistently perform well in licensing examinations, demonstrating that the 180-200 entry point doesn’t compromise output quality.

Tuition remains affordable for a state institution, typically under ₦150,000 annually. Lafia’s relatively low cost of living compared to major cities makes total expenses manageable for middle-income families.

Achievers University Cut-Off Mark for Nursing

Achievers University in Owo, Ondo State sets its Nursing Science cut-off at 190 – lower than most universities but higher than their general 140 minimum for other courses. This reflects Nursing’s competitive nature even in private institutions.

As a NUC-accredited private university established in 2007, Achievers has built credibility through stable operations and quality assurance. Their Faculty of Nursing Sciences runs a structured program leading to Bachelor of Nursing Science degrees recognized by NMCN.

The main consideration is cost. Annual tuition ranges around ₦1,200,000-₦1,500,000, placing it firmly in the expensive category. However, Achievers offers payment plans and occasionally provides scholarships for exceptional students or those facing financial hardship.

The university’s Christian foundation influences campus culture – expect mandatory chapel attendance and conservative behavioral standards. This environment appeals to families seeking structured, value-based education but may not suit everyone.

Madonna University Cut-Off Mark for Nursing

Madonna University requires 200 for Nursing, setting it higher than their general 140 minimum. This private Catholic institution operates campuses in Okija (Anambra State) and Elele (Rivers State), giving applicants geographic options.

Established in 1999, Madonna ranks among Nigeria’s oldest private universities with proven track records. Their Nursing program holds full NMCN accreditation and benefits from teaching hospital partnerships for clinical rotations.

Annual fees fall in the ₦800,000-₦1,500,000 range depending on campus and accommodation choices. The university’s zero-tolerance drug policy and strict discipline create structured learning environments that produce focused graduates.

Madonna’s Catholic identity shapes institutional character significantly. Daily prayers, religious studies requirements, and conservative conduct codes define campus life. Students comfortable with this framework often thrive, while those preferring secular environments may struggle.

Core Admission Requirements for Nursing Science

No matter which university you pick from the Schools with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria, you must meet the same non-negotiable requirements.

First, you need five SSCE credit passes in English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Most universities accept results from WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB, and many now permit two sittings. UNILAG and a few others still insist on one sitting for Nursing, so confirm the latest rule on your target school’s admission page.

Second, you must select the university as your first choice on the JAMB CAPS portal. Nursing Science is classified as a medical-science course, so most institutions will not consider you if you place them second. Third, your UTME subject combination must be English Language, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Mathematics does not substitute for Physics in the Nursing combination.

Finally, you must register and participate in the institution’s post-UTME screening. Your final aggregate typically combines JAMB score (50%), post-UTME score (40%), and O’Level grades (10%). A candidate with a 180 JAMB score and A-grades in WAEC can out-score someone with a 230 JAMB score but weak O’Level results.

Smart Moves to Maximise Your Nursing Admission

Picking a university with a low cut-off is only step one. Final admission still depends on how you stack up against other candidates. The tips below help you convert eligibility into a real admission letter.

• Apply to institutions within your catchment area. Federal universities reserve a share of slots for candidates from surrounding states, which means your working cut-off is softer than it looks on paper.

• Target lesser-pressured campuses. Federal University Gashua, Federal University Dutse, and Federal University Otuoke receive far fewer applications than UNILAG or UI, giving strategic candidates a real edge.

• Prepare seriously for the post-UTME. Many students relax after hitting the JAMB cut-off, only to fall at the screening stage. Past-question practice, strong O’Level grades, and clean documentation push you ahead of the pack.

• Consider a parallel application to a College of Nursing Science. The RN route still leads to the same NMCN licence, and you can upgrade to BNSc later through a direct-entry programme.

• Verify NUC and NMCN accreditation before paying any tuition. Several institutions advertise Nursing without proper accreditation, and such certificates cannot be registered with NMCN.

Together, these strategies transform the Schools with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria from a list of options into a clear action plan for your admission year.

Career Outlook for Nursing Graduates

Nursing is one of the few Nigerian degrees with a clear, globally portable career path. After graduation and one year of internship, you register with the NMCN and can practise at any hospital in Nigeria. Many graduates head to the United Kingdom, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Germany, and the United States through licensing conversions such as NMC-UK, NCLEX, HAAD, and OET.

Starting salaries in Nigerian private hospitals range from ₦80,000 to ₦250,000 monthly, while federal-government nurses earn within the CONHESS salary grade, starting around ₦200,000 monthly with allowances. Specialisations such as critical care, paediatric nursing, nurse anaesthesia, and midwifery open even higher brackets. In the UK, a newly registered Nigerian nurse typically earns between £28,000 and £35,000 annually before overtime.

This strong outlook is precisely why the Schools with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria stay on every aspirant’s radar; they provide a realistic entry point into a future-proof profession that travels with you anywhere in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the lowest JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing in 2026/2027?

Most Colleges of Nursing Science accept 140, while universities range between 160 and 200. University of Maiduguri, PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Achievers University, and Rhema University sit among the Schools with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria at the university level today.

2. Can I study Nursing with 160 in JAMB?

Yes. Several private universities such as Rhema University, Achievers University, and Adeleke University admit Nursing candidates with 160. Benue State University, Federal University Lokoja, and Federal University Kashere also admit 160-scorers, subject to post-UTME performance. This flexibility is one reason why the Schools with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria remain so relevant to aspirants every year.

3. Which universities accept a 180 JAMB score for Nursing?

UNIMAID, UNIPORT, Bingham University, Novena University, Madonna University, Ebonyi State University, Igbinedion University, and Federal University Dutse all admit candidates with 180 and above, provided they pass the post-UTME and meet O’Level requirements.

4. Do these schools award a BNSc degree?

Universities on the list award the Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) after five years. Colleges of Nursing Sciences typically award the RN and RM certificates after three years. Both routes produce licensed nurses recognised by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.

5. Is Nursing Science the same as studying at a School of Nursing?

Not exactly. Nursing Science is a five-year university degree (BNSc) that includes RN registration on completion. A School of Nursing offers a three-year programme leading directly to RN certification. Both produce practising nurses, but the BNSc opens faster routes to postgraduate study and international practice.

6. Do I still need to write post-UTME if I meet the cut-off mark?

Yes. Almost every Nigerian university combines JAMB scores with a separate post-UTME screening. Meeting the cut-off simply qualifies you to participate; the post-UTME result and O’Level grades often decide the final admission offer.

7. Are there Nursing schools that do not require JAMB?

Yes. State Schools of Nursing run their own entrance exams outside JAMB, and ND, HND, or RN holders can apply for direct-entry Nursing into universities. The JAMB route remains the most direct path to a BNSc degree, and many of the Schools with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria use the JAMB UTME as their primary screening tool.

8. What UTME subjects do I combine for Nursing in JAMB?

You pick English Language plus three science subjects: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. That combination stays standard across every Nigerian university offering Nursing Science, whether federal, state, or private.

Final Thoughts

Securing a Nursing admission in Nigeria is less about chasing the most famous university and more about strategic school choice. The Schools with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria listed in this guide give realistic entry points for candidates with JAMB scores between 160 and 200. Whether you lean toward a federal, state, private, or nursing-college route, make sure the institution is NUC and NMCN accredited so your certificate holds weight across Nigeria and beyond.

Start early. Verify each school’s current admission brochure. Prepare for post-UTME with the same seriousness you gave JAMB. Do those three things consistently, and a career in Nursing is well within your reach. Bookmark this page and keep visiting for fresh updates on the Schools with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria as institutions roll out their 2026/2027 admission lists.

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