Cut Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery in Nigerian Federal, State & Private Universities 2026/2027 (JAMB & Departmental Cut-Off Marks)

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Cut Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery in Nigerian Universities 

Getting admission to study Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria as at today is highly competitive. And if I must tell you the truth; every year, over hundreds of thousands of candidates apply for MBBS programmes, but only a small percentage secure admission. One of the first questions many students ask after writing the 2026/2027 JAMB UTME is, "What is the cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery?"

If you're planning to study Medicine in any Nigerian university, knowing both the JAMB cut-off mark and the departmental cut-off mark will help you understand your admission chances and prepare for the next stage of the admission process.

As we all know, Medicine and Surgery remains one of the most prestigious and competitive courses in Nigeria. Every year, hundreds of thousands of candidates apply for admission into various Colleges of Medicine across federal, state, and private universities. However, due to limited admission quotas and the rigorous nature of medical education, only a small percentage of applicants eventually secure admission. For the 2026/2027 admission cycle, many candidates are searching for reliable information regarding:

1. Medicine and Surgery cut-off marks in Nigeria
2. JAMB score required for Medicine
3. Universities offering Medicine and Surgery
4. Departmental cut-off marks for Medicine
5. Federal universities offering Medicine
6. State universities offering Medicine
7. Private universities offering Medicine
8. Post-UTME requirements for Medicine
9. O’Level requirements for Medicine and Surgery
10. Direct Entry admission requirements

In this guide, you'll find the cut-off marks for Medicine and Surgery in federal, state, and private universities across Nigeria, along with important admission requirements and tips to improve your chances of gaining admission.

What Is the Cut-Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery?

The cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery is the minimum score a candidate must meet to be considered for admission into an MBBS programme.

There are two important cut-off marks you should know:

• JAMB Cut-Off Mark: The minimum UTME score required before you can participate in a university's admission process.

• Departmental Cut-Off Mark: The final score set by each university after considering your JAMB score, Post-UTME (where applicable), and O'Level results.

Most universities require much higher scores for Medicine than the minimum JAMB benchmark because of the intense competition.

General JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery 2026/2027

Although the official JAMB minimum benchmark may be lower, most universities require candidates applying for Medicine and Surgery to score at least 250 or above.

For highly competitive institutions, a score of 280 to 320+ significantly improves your chances of admission.

Recommended JAMB Scores

JAMB Score	Admission Chance
320+	Excellent
300–319	Very High
280–299	High
260–279	Competitive
250–259	Fair
Below 250	Low in most federal universities

Medicine and Surgery Cut-Off Marks for Nigerian Universities 2026/2027

University	JAMB Cut-Off Mark
University of Ibadan (UI)	280+
University of Lagos (UNILAG)	280+
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)	270+
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)	270+
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)	270+
University of Benin (UNIBEN)	270+
Lagos State University (LASU)	270+
University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)	260+
University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)	270+
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)	260+
Bayero University Kano (BUK)	260+
Delta State University (DELSU)	250+
University of Calabar (UNICAL)	250+
Ambrose Alli University (AAU)	250+
Ebonyi State University (EBSU)	250+
Rivers State University (RSU)	250+
Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)	250+
Ekiti State University (EKSU)	250+
University of Jos (UNIJOS)	250+
Benue State University (BSU)	250+

Note: Actual departmental cut-off marks may vary each admission year depending on candidates' performance, available admission quotas, and university admission policies.

O'Level Requirements for Medicine and Surgery

To study Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria, you must have at least five credit passes in:

• English Language

• Mathematics

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Physics

Most universities require these credits in not more than two sittings, while some highly competitive institutions prefer one sitting.

JAMB Subject Combination for Medicine and Surgery

Choose the correct UTME subjects:

• English Language (Compulsory)

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Physics

Using the wrong subject combination can affect your admission.

How to Increase Your Chances of Admission

If your dream is to study Medicine, these tips can improve your chances:

• Aim for a JAMB score of 280 or higher.

• Perform well in your Post-UTME or screening exercise.

• Obtain excellent O'Level results.

• Select the correct subject combination.

• Upload your O'Level results promptly on the JAMB CAPS portal if required.

• Monitor your university's admission updates regularly.

• Consider institutions with slightly lower competition if your score is below the highest cut-off ranges.

Can I Study Medicine with 250 in JAMB?

Yes, you may have a chance in some state and private universities, especially if you have strong O'Level results and perform well in the university's admission screening.

However, admission into highly competitive federal universities with a score of 250 is often difficult because many applicants score much higher.

Private Universities Offering Medicine and Surgery and Their Expected Cut-Off Marks

Private universities have become important contributors to medical education in Nigeria. Many of these institutions possess modern facilities, well-equipped laboratories, and partnerships with teaching hospitals that support medical training.

Although admission into private universities may be less competitive than some federal institutions, candidates are still expected to meet the required academic standards.

Below is a comprehensive table of major private universities offering Medicine and Surgery and their expected admission cut-off marks for the 2026/2027 academic session.

Private University	Expected Medicine Cut-Off Mark
Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)	250–300
Babcock University	240–290
Bowen University	220–280
Madonna University	220–280
Igbinedion University	220–280
Gregory University	220–270
PAMO University of Medical Sciences	220–280
Lead City University	220–270
Novena University	220–270
Eko University of Medical and Health Sciences	220–270
Atiba University	220–270
Nile University	240–290
Thomas Adewumi University	220–270
Elrazi Medical University	220–270

Comparing Federal, State and Private Universities

Many candidates struggle to determine which category of university is best suited for their medical education.

Federal Universities

Advantages include:

• Lower tuition fees
• Established medical colleges
• Strong reputation
• Large teaching hospitals

Challenges include:

• Extremely competitive admission
• Limited admission slots

State Universities

Advantages include:

• Good medical facilities
• Moderate competition
• Strong regional recognition

Challenges include:

• Tuition may be higher than federal universities
• Admission remains competitive

Private Universities

Advantages include:

1. Easier admission opportunities
2. Smaller class sizes
3. Modern infrastructure
4. Stable academic calendar

Challenges include:

• Higher tuition fees
• Additional living expenses

Post-UTME Requirements for Medicine and Surgery

Medicine remains one of the few courses where Post-UTME performance can significantly influence admission decisions.

Many universities consider:

JAMB Score

Post-UTME Score

O’Level Performance

Aggregate Score

A candidate with a strong JAMB score but weak Post-UTME performance may lose admission.

Documents Required for Medicine Admission Screening

Candidates should prepare the following:

JAMB Result Slip

WAEC Result

NECO Result (if applicable)

Birth Certificate

Certificate of Origin

Passport Photographs

JAMB Admission Letter (where required)

Screening Registration Slip

Proper documentation helps avoid admission complications.

Cut Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery in all the Nigerian Universities in 2026/2027

Direct Entry Admission into Medicine and Surgery

Some candidates gain admission without UTME through Direct Entry.

This route is generally available to candidates with advanced qualifications.

Eligible Qualifications

Candidates may possess:

• A-Level qualifications
• JUPEB results
• Cambridge qualifications
• Bachelor’s degrees in relevant disciplines

Requirements for Direct Entry Medicine Admission

Requirements often include:

Strong Academic Background

Relevant Science Qualifications

Outstanding Performance in Advanced Studies

Compliance with University Guidelines

Direct Entry admission into Medicine remains highly competitive.

How Universities Calculate Aggregate Scores

Many universities combine different academic indicators.

A typical admission assessment may consider:

JAMB Performance

Post-UTME Performance

O’Level Grades

Catchment Area Considerations

Educationally Less Developed State Considerations

Admission formulas vary by institution.

School Fees for Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria

One of the most important considerations for prospective medical students is tuition.

The table below provides estimated annual ranges.

University Category	Estimated Annual Fee Range
Federal Universities	₦50,000 – ₦250,000
State Universities	₦150,000 – ₦500,000
Private Universities	₦1,500,000 – ₦7,000,000+

Students should budget for additional expenses such as:

• Accommodation
• Medical fees
• Laboratory charges
• Textbooks
• Professional examinations

Why Medicine Costs More Than Most Courses

Medical education requires significant resources.

Universities invest heavily in:

Laboratories

Clinical Equipment

Teaching Hospitals

Research Facilities

Medical Simulations

These resources contribute to the higher cost of training doctors.

Career Opportunities for Medical Graduates

Medicine offers diverse career opportunities.

Graduates may work in:

Government Hospitals

Private Hospitals

Specialist Clinics

International Healthcare Organizations

Universities

Research Institutions

Military Medical Services

Public Health Agencies

Non-Governmental Organizations

Medical Specializations After MBBS

After obtaining an MBBS degree, doctors may specialize in various fields.

Surgery

Internal Medicine

Pediatrics

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Psychiatry

Radiology

Family Medicine

Dermatology

Orthopedics

Neurosurgery

Cardiology

Oncology

Each specialization requires additional training.

Salary Expectations for Doctors in Nigeria

Medical professionals generally enjoy relatively stable earning opportunities.

House Officers

Entry-level medical graduates undergoing housemanship receive salaries according to institutional structures.

Medical Officers

Qualified doctors employed in hospitals earn higher salaries.

Consultants

Specialist consultants often earn substantially higher incomes.

Private Practice

Many doctors supplement earnings through private medical practice.

Actual earnings vary depending on:

1. Employer
2. Experience
3. Specialization
4. Location

Benefits of Studying Medicine and Surgery

Despite its challenges, Medicine remains one of the most rewarding professions.

Professional Respect

Doctors are highly respected globally.

Career Security

Healthcare professionals remain in demand.

International Opportunities

Medical qualifications can create opportunities abroad.

Financial Stability

Medicine provides long-term earning potential.

Opportunity to Save Lives

Many doctors find personal fulfillment in helping patients.

Challenges of Studying Medicine

Prospective students should understand the realities of medical education.

Long Duration

Training typically requires several years.

Intensive Workload

Students encounter demanding academic schedules.

Frequent Examinations

Medical education involves continuous assessment.

Clinical Responsibilities

Students eventually participate in hospital-based training.

Emotional Pressure

Healthcare environments can be challenging.

Common Mistakes Candidates Make

Many applicants lose admission opportunities because of avoidable errors.

Applying With Low JAMB Scores

Medicine requires exceptionally high performance.

Ignoring O’Level Requirements

Incomplete science subjects create eligibility problems.

Wrong Subject Combination

This remains one of the most common mistakes.

Poor Post-UTME Preparation

Many students focus only on JAMB.

Late Registration

Delays may create unnecessary complications.

Cut Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery in all the Nigerian Universities in 2026/2027

Expert Strategies for Securing Medicine Admission

Candidates seeking Medicine admission should adopt proven strategies.

Target 300 and Above in JAMB

This provides a strong competitive advantage.

Obtain Excellent WAEC Results

Strong grades improve admission prospects.

Practice Post-UTME Questions

Preparation should continue after JAMB.

Consider Multiple Institutions

Applying strategically increases opportunities.

Monitor Admission Updates

Staying informed prevents missed deadlines.

Real-Life Admission Scenarios

Scenario One: Candidate Scores 210 in JAMB

Although the score may qualify for many courses, admission into Medicine becomes extremely difficult.

Likely outcome:

• Consider alternative health-related programmes.

Scenario Two: Candidate Scores 275 in JAMB

The candidate becomes moderately competitive.

Likely outcome:

• Better opportunities in several universities.

Scenario Three: Candidate Scores 310 in JAMB

The candidate becomes highly competitive.

Likely outcome:

• Strong admission prospects in many institutions.

Scenario Four: Candidate Has Excellent JAMB but Weak O’Level Results

Likely outcome:

• Admission difficulties despite strong UTME performance.

Alternative Courses for Candidates Unable to Secure Medicine Admission

Students who do not gain admission into Medicine may consider related programmes.

Nursing

Pharmacy

Medical Laboratory Science

Physiotherapy

Radiography

Public Health

Anatomy

Physiology

Biomedical Science

Many professionals in these fields enjoy successful careers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum JAMB score for Medicine and Surgery?

Although the national benchmark may be lower, most universities consider candidates with 250 and above, while the most competitive institutions often admit students who score 280 or higher.

Is 300 a Good Score for Medicine?

Yes.

A score above 300 significantly improves admission competitiveness.

Can Two Sittings Be Used for Medicine?

Many universities accept two sittings, though some highly competitive institutions prefer one sitting.

How Many Years Does Medicine Take?

The MBBS programme generally takes six years.

Is Medicine the Most Competitive Course in Nigeria?

Yes.

Medicine consistently ranks among the most competitive programmes nationwide.

Which University Has the Highest Medicine Cut-Off Mark?

Institutions such as:

• University of Lagos
• University of Ibadan
• University of Nigeria
• Obafemi Awolowo University

often record some of the highest admission benchmarks.

Which university has the lowest cut-off mark for Medicine?

Cut-off marks vary every admission cycle. Some state and private universities may admit candidates with lower scores than the most competitive federal universities, depending on available spaces and admission policies.

Is 300 a good JAMB score for Medicine?

Yes. A score of 300 is excellent and gives you a strong chance of admission into many Nigerian universities, provided you also meet the university's other admission requirements.

Can I study Medicine with 240 in JAMB?

Admission with 240 is possible in a few institutions, but competition is intense. You should also consider related health science courses if your preferred university has a much higher departmental cut-off mark.

Conclusion

Gaining admission to study Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria requires careful planning, excellent academic performance, and a competitive JAMB score. While the official benchmark gives you a starting point, many universities admit students based on much higher departmental cut-off marks because Medicine remains one of the most competitive courses in the country.

If you're preparing for the 2026/2027 admission exercise, aim to score as high as possible in JAMB, meet all O'Level requirements, and stay updated with your preferred university's admission guidelines. A strong score, combined with proper preparation and the right subject combination, will greatly improve your chances of securing admission into your dream medical school.

With dedication, consistent study, and the right information, you can move one step closer to becoming a medical doctor in Nigeria.

This educational content was carefully researched and prepared by the editorial team at Labari Web Education to support students, researchers, educators, and lifelong learners. Our goal is to provide practical, accurate, and easy, to, understand resources for JAMB, POST, UTME, WAEC, WAEC/GCE, NECO, undergraduate studies, postgraduate research, thesis and dissertation writing, academic success, scholarships, and career development. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, readers are encouraged to verify official information where applicable.

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