Medicine and Surgery is one of the most sought-after and competitive courses in Nigeria. Aspiring medical professionals often face tough competition, with thousands of students aiming to secure admission. However, only a select few achieve their dream due to inadequate guidance and proper information. Understanding the requirements is the first crucial step toward gaining admission into this prestigious course.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the JAMB subject combination for Medicine and Surgery, the WAEC subject requirements, direct entry pathways, and a list of accredited universities that offer Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to prepare for your journey into the medical field.
JAMB Subject Combination for Medicine and Surgery 2025/2026
The initial requirement for studying Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria is registering for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) organized by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). The JAMB UTME is a standardized test that evaluates your knowledge in four subjects. To study Medicine and Surgery, you must choose the following subject combination:
- English Language (Compulsory)
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Physics
These four subjects are essential for your JAMB registration if you intend to study Medicine and Surgery. Achieving a minimum score of 220 out of 400 significantly increases your chances of securing admission. However, note that the specific cut-off mark may vary across different universities depending on their competitiveness and admission policies.
WAEC Subject Combination for Medicine and Surgery 2025/2026
In addition to passing the JAMB UTME, you must have the required O’level qualifications. These qualifications are typically obtained through exams like WAEC (West African Examinations Council), NECO (National Examinations Council), or NABTEB (National Business and Technical Examinations Board). Your O’level results must include at least five credits, obtained in a maximum of two sittings.
The WAEC subject combination for Medicine and Surgery includes the following:
- English Language (Compulsory)
- Mathematics (Compulsory)
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Physics
You must obtain credit passes in these five subjects to be eligible for Medicine and Surgery. Additionally, you’ll need at least six credits overall, with not more than two sittings for the examination.
Direct Entry Requirements for Medicine and Surgery 2025/2026
If you’re considering a direct entry route into Medicine and Surgery, you must meet certain qualifications. Direct entry is an alternative path for candidates who already have a higher qualification such as a diploma or an A-Level certificate.
Here are the direct entry requirements for Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria:
- A-Level: Minimum of two passes in subjects like Chemistry, Biology, Physics, or Mathematics.
- ND/HND: An upper credit in a relevant field such as Science Laboratory Technology, Nursing, Radiography, etc.
- NCE: At least a merit pass in subjects like Chemistry, Biology, Physics, or Mathematics.
- IJMB/JUPEB: A minimum of 13 points in Chemistry, Biology, Physics, or Mathematics.
Candidates applying through direct entry must also ensure they meet the specific requirements of their chosen universities.
List of Universities Offering Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria (2025/2026)
Many universities in Nigeria offer Medicine and Surgery, but only those accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) should be considered. Here is a list of accredited universities that offer Medicine and Surgery:
- Ambrose Alli University (AAU)
- Abia State University (ABSU)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
- University of Abuja (UNIABUJA)
- Babcock University (BABCOCK)
- Bayero University (BUK)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- Bingham University (BINGHAM)
- Bowen University (BOWEN)
- Benue State University (BSU)
- University of Calabar (UNICAL)
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- Ebonyi State University (EBSU)
- Ekiti State University (EKSU)
- Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Igbinedion University (IGBINEDION)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- Imo State University (IMSU)
- University of Jos (UNIJOS)
- Kogi State University (KSU)
- Kaduna State University (KASU)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH)
- Madonna University (MADONNA)
- University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
- Niger Delta University (NDU)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
- University of Port-Harcourt (UNIPORT)
- Usman Dan Fodio University (UDUSOK)
- Osun State University (UNIOSUN)
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
- University of Nigeria (UNN)
- University of Uyo (UNIUYO)
Make sure to consult the JAMB brochure for specific admission criteria, as they vary from one institution to another.
Conclusion
Studying Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria is a challenging yet rewarding pursuit. Following the steps outlined in this post will guide you in meeting the necessary requirements and help you prepare adequately for the admission process. Strive to maintain a strong academic performance, especially in your JAMB and WAEC exams, and carefully select the university that best suits your goals.
By taking these steps, you are one step closer to becoming a medical professional. Good luck!
FAQs
What is the JAMB cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery?
The minimum JAMB score is typically 220, but it varies depending on the university.
How many universities offer Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria?
Over 35 universities in Nigeria offer accredited Medicine and Surgery programs.
Can I use NECO results instead of WAEC?
Yes, NECO and NABTEB results are also accepted for admission.