Are you planning to study Medicine & Surgery in Nigeria? This course is one of the most prestigious and sought-after in the country, attracting thousands of applicants each year. With the competitive nature of Medicine & Surgery, gaining admission requires not only hard work but also an excellent JAMB score. If you’re aiming to join the medical field, understanding the cut-off marks and the admission process is essential.
In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about studying Medicine & Surgery in Nigeria, including the JAMB cut-off marks for the 2025/2026 academic session, admission tips, and a list of universities that offer the program.
What is Medicine & Surgery?
Medicine & Surgery is a course designed to train students to become medical doctors. It encompasses the study of the human body, understanding various diseases, diagnosing ailments, and performing surgeries to treat illnesses. As a doctor, you are responsible for ensuring the well-being and health of your patients through medical care and interventions.
A degree in Medicine & Surgery typically spans six years in Nigeria and involves rigorous training both in classrooms and hospitals. Upon completion, graduates are awarded the MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) degree, after which they can undergo further specialization in various medical fields.
Medicine & Surgery is considered one of the most challenging courses, requiring dedication, commitment, and an unwavering desire to succeed. With the increasing demand for healthcare professionals globally, pursuing this degree can open doors to numerous career opportunities both locally and internationally.
What is a JAMB Cut-Off Mark?
A JAMB cut-off mark is the minimum score a candidate must achieve in the JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) exam to be eligible for admission into a university. Each university in Nigeria sets its own cut-off mark, which can vary depending on the competitiveness of the course.
For Medicine & Surgery, the cut-off mark is typically high due to the limited number of available spots and the large number of applicants. Scoring above the cut-off mark does not guarantee admission, but it improves your chances of being considered.
JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Medicine & Surgery for 2025/2026
Medicine & Surgery is one of the courses with the highest JAMB cut-off marks in Nigerian universities. For the 2025/2026 academic session, the cut-off marks range from 200 to 250, depending on the institution. Top-tier universities with a history of producing excellent medical professionals often set higher cut-off marks.
Here is a breakdown of JAMB cut-off marks for some universities offering Medicine & Surgery:
| University | JAMB Cut-Off Mark |
|---|---|
| Ambrose Alli University | 220 |
| Abia State University | 220 |
| Ahmadu Bello University | 240 |
| Afe Babalola University | 250 |
| University of Abuja | 240 |
| Babcock University | 240 |
| Bayero University | 240 |
| University of Benin | 240 |
| Bingham University | 230 |
| Bowen University | 230 |
| Benue State University | 220 |
| University of Calabar | 230 |
| Delta State University | 220 |
| Ebonyi State University | 220 |
| Ekiti State University | 220 |
| Enugu State University of Science and Technology | 230 |
| University of Ibadan | 250 |
| Igbinedion University | 230 |
| University of Ilorin | 240 |
| Imo State University | 220 |
| University of Jos | 230 |
| Kogi State University | 220 |
| Kaduna State University | 220 |
| University of Lagos | 250 |
| Lagos State University | 240 |
| Ladoke Akintola University of Technology | 230 |
| Madonna University | 230 |
| University of Maiduguri | 230 |
| Niger Delta University | 220 |
| Obafemi Awolowo University | 250 |
| Olabisi Onabanjo University | 230 |
| University of Port-Harcourt | 230 |
| Usman Dan Fodio University | 230 |
| Osun State University | 230 |
| Nnamdi Azikiwe University | 240 |
| University of Nigeria, Nsukka | 240 |
| University of Uyo | 230 |
Tips for Gaining Admission into Medicine & Surgery
Given the competitive nature of Medicine & Surgery in Nigeria, you’ll need more than just meeting the minimum cut-off mark to secure admission. Below are a few tips to enhance your chances:
1. Score Above the Cut-Off Mark
Although most universities set a minimum cut-off between 200 and 250, it’s advisable to aim for a score well above this. Scoring 260 or higher will give you a significant advantage in the admission process. The higher your JAMB score, the better your chances of securing a spot in this competitive course.
2. Prepare for Post-UTME
After JAMB, most universities in Nigeria conduct a Post-UTME (Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) screening to further evaluate candidates. This test typically covers subjects related to your intended course of study, and your performance can influence your admission chances. Be sure to prepare thoroughly for the Post-UTME, as it can make or break your application.
3. Meet O’Level Requirements
In addition to passing the JAMB and Post-UTME, you must also meet the O’Level (SSCE) requirements. For Medicine & Surgery, universities require at least five credits in subjects such as:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Make sure your O’Level results are in order before applying for admission.
4. Choose Universities Wisely
Selecting the right university is crucial. While top universities such as the University of Ibadan and the University of Lagos are prestigious, they also have very high cut-off marks and intense competition. If your JAMB score is within the lower range (200-230), consider applying to universities with slightly lower cut-off marks, such as Ambrose Alli University, Abia State University, or Niger Delta University.
5. Consider Private Universities
Private universities in Nigeria also offer Medicine & Surgery and can be a good alternative if you don’t meet the cut-off marks for federal or state universities. Institutions like Afe Babalola University, Igbinedion University, and Babcock University have excellent medical programs, albeit with higher tuition fees.
Top Universities Offering Medicine & Surgery in Nigeria
If you’re aiming to study Medicine & Surgery, here are some of the top universities to consider for the 2025/2026 academic session:
1. University of Ibadan (UI)
Ranked as one of the best universities in Nigeria, UI boasts a highly regarded medical program. With a JAMB cut-off mark of 250, it’s one of the most competitive institutions for Medicine & Surgery. The University of Ibadan has produced numerous top medical professionals in Nigeria and abroad.
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
Located in the bustling city of Lagos, UNILAG is known for its excellent medical facilities and high academic standards. The cut-off mark for Medicine & Surgery is 250, making it one of the top choices for aspiring medical students.
3. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
For students in the northern part of Nigeria, ABU Zaria is a great option. With a JAMB cut-off mark of 240, it offers a comprehensive medical education and training program. ABU is renowned for its affordable tuition fees and well-equipped teaching hospitals.
4. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
With a cut-off mark of 240, UNILORIN has a reputation for academic excellence and a high standard of discipline. The university’s College of Health Sciences is known for its strong emphasis on both academic and practical training.
5. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
OAU is another top institution for studying Medicine & Surgery. Located in Ile-Ife, it has a cut-off mark of 250 and is well-regarded for its medical faculty. The university has consistently produced top-tier medical professionals.
Conclusion
Studying Medicine & Surgery in Nigeria is a dream for many students, but it requires dedication and hard work. The JAMB cut-off marks for Medicine & Surgery are high, ranging from 200 to 250, depending on the university. To increase your chances of admission, aim to score well above the minimum cut-off mark, prepare thoroughly for the Post-UTME, and ensure you meet all the O’Level requirements.
Some of the top universities offering Medicine & Surgery in Nigeria include the University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, Ahmadu Bello University, and Obafemi Awolowo University. If your JAMB score falls below the required cut-off for these universities, consider applying to other institutions with lower cut-off marks or private universities.
Good luck with your studies, and remember that consistent effort, preparation, and determination will help you achieve your dream of becoming a doctor!