1. What It Means to Study Medicine & Surgery in Nigeria
Studying Medicine & Surgery in Nigeria means training to become a medical doctor. You will learn to:
- Understand the human body: anatomy, physiology, biochemistry etc.
- Diagnose diseases and health conditions.
- Treat illnesses using drugs, surgeries and other medical procedures.
- Care for patients in hospitals, clinics, research institutions.
Medicine & Surgery is often abbreviated Med / Surg, or MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery). It is usually a six‑year degree in Nigerian universities, sometimes longer depending on the school and required internship or housemanship.
Because it deals with human life, admission requirements are stricter, and the competition is much tougher than for many other courses.
2. Why Medicine Admission Is Highly Competitive
Here are reasons why gaining admission into medicine is harder:
- High demand: Many students want to be doctors because it’s prestigious, offers good career opportunities, and often pays well.
- Limited spaces: Universities have fixed quotas (slots) for medical students. They cannot take unlimited students because of resources: labs, hospitals, lecturers, beds.
- Strict academic standards: Universities require high grades in UTME / JAMB, excellent O’Level results, strong performance in screening and interviews.
- Subject requirements specific: You must have strong performance in Science subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Physics). Any weakness here reduces chance.
- Cut‑off marks tend to be high and vary each year because they depend on performance of all applicants, number of applicants, available slots, school reputation.
Knowing this helps you understand why satisfying the requirements is not enough — you must aim higher.
3. JAMB Cut‑Off Mark for Medicine & Surgery 2025: What You Must Know
3.1 What Is JAMB Cut‑Off Mark
- The cut‑off mark is the minimum UTME score set by JAMB or by the university (or both) for a course. For medicine, this mark is often much higher than the general minimum.
- There are two layers: the JAMB approved cut‑off, and the university / department’s own departmental cut‑off.
3.2 Typical JAMB Cut‑Off Range for Medicine & Surgery 2025
From available data:
- Many federal and state universities set cut‑off for medicine around 240 to 250 UTME score.
- Some universities might allow slightly lower cut‑offs in some years (for example ~220‑230) depending on demand and performance.
- Top institutions like University of Ibadan (UI), University of Lagos (UNILAG), Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) often require the highest cut‑offs (≈ 250 or more) for Medicine & Surgery.
3.3 Why Cut‑Off Marks Vary
- Number of applicants: More people apply, scores trend higher → universities raise cut‑offs.
- Performance level: If many candidates do poorly in UTME for science subjects, cut‑offs might be adjusted downwards (but still high).
- University capacity: Universities with more resources or better reputation tend to have higher cut‑off marks.
- Policy or regulatory adjustments: Sometimes JAMB or government may issue guidelines that affect cut‑offs.
4. Subject Combination Requirements for JAMB Admission into Medicine
To apply for medicine, you must select correct subjects in both UTME and O’Level. There are specific subject combinations university expects.
4.1 Required UTME Subject Combination
When registering for JAMB UTME, you must choose these compulsory subjects:
- English Language (mandatory for all courses)
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
These are the four you need. If you choose any other subject instead of one of these, you may be disqualified or your application rejected. Some universities may also consider Mathematics, but it is less common for Medicine. Usually the science subjects + English are essential.
4.2 O’Level Subject Combination
When writing WAEC, NECO, NABTEB or similar, you need credit in 5 subjects including:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- And one other subject: often Mathematics, or sometimes an elective subject depending on university
These credits must usually be in no more than two sittings (though some universities accept two sittings; some insist on one sitting).
5. O’Level / WAEC / NECO Requirements for Medicine Admission
Having correct subjects is not enough; you need good grades and proper examination sittings.
5.1 Minimum Grade Requirements
- You need credit passes (often grade C or equivalent) in all required subjects (English Language, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, other required subject).
- Some universities require strong credits (such as “B” or “B2” grades) in the science subjects to be competitive. Because medicine is highly selective, just meeting the minimum may not suffice.
5.2 Number of Sittings Allowed
- Many universities accept O’Level results in one or two sittings. If you don’t manage all necessary credits in one exam session, you can combine results from two.
- However, some schools prefer one sitting, especially for highly competitive courses. If you have two sittings, you may be at slight disadvantage.
5.3 Acceptable Examination Bodies
- WAEC, NECO, sometimes NABTEB if relevant, are accepted as valid.
- Some universities require certain practicals (in sciences) to be passed.
- Your results must be verifiable; no fake or unapproved examination documentation.
6. Age, Physical & Other Miscellaneous Requirements
Besides academics, there are other non‑academic factors many universities consider for medicine.
6.1 Age and Health / Physical Requirements
- There is usually no fixed age requirement published, but you must be old enough and able to undergo the rigors of medical training. Some universities require you to be at least 16 years at the time of admission.
- Good health is often required: medicine is physically strenuous (hospital rotations, surgeries etc.). Some schools may require medical fitness certificate.
6.2 Moral Character / Conduct and Certificates
- You may need to submit attestation of character, good conduct from school or local authority.
- Must have identification documents: birth certificate, local government area of origin, state of origin etc.
6.3 Other Documentation
- Passport photograph(s) in correct format.
- O’Level results (original or certified copies).
- UTME result slip.
- JAMB registration details: profile code, UTME registration number etc.
7. Post‑UTME / Screening / Interview Requirements for Medicine
After UTME, there are further steps for final admission into Medicine.
7.1 Post‑UTME Screening Exams
- Most universities will require you to write Post‑UTME / Screening test for Medicine. This might be multiple‑choice or essay questions covering science subjects.
- Some private universities may include additional tests (e.g. Biology, English essay).
7.2 Scoring in Screening
- The screening score is often combined with UTME score and O’Level grades to compute a final score or aggregate.
- Good performance in screening can make up for marginal UTME scores. But if your screening is weak, admission may not be offered even with good UTME.
7.3 Interview / Oral / In‑School Tests
- Some schools conduct interviews or oral tests, to assess communication ability, understanding of medical school challenges, sometimes moral / ethical reasoning.
- Sometimes micro‑practical or lab tests are involved, depending on the university.
7.4 Submission of Additional Requirements
- Some universities require candidates going into Medicine to undergo aptitude test, medical fitness test, or bring recommendation letters.
- You may need to attend orientation or pre‑admission briefing.
8. How to Apply and Meet the Medicine Admission Requirements (Step by Step)
Here is a step‑by‑step guide on how you can fulfill all requirements and maximize chances for admission into Medicine & Surgery in Nigeria in 2025.
Step 1: Check University Lists & Entry Requirements
- Make a list of universities you want to apply to that offer Medicine & Surgery.
- Visit their official websites to check entry requirements, cut‑off marks, Post‑UTME screening tests, subject combinations etc.
Step 2: Prepare Academics Early (O’Level and UTME Subjects)
- Ensure your O’Level (WAEC/NECO) grades in required subjects are good. If you haven’t done exams yet, prepare well.
- Choose correct UTME subject combination: English Language, Biology, Chemistry, Physics. None can be missing.
Step 3: Aim High in UTME Score
- Because medicine cut‑offs are high (≈ 240‑250 or more for top universities), aim to achieve well above those marks if possible.
- Use past JAMB exams and practice tests, focus on speed, accuracy.
Step 4: Register Correctly & Fulfill Academic Documents
- When registering for JAMB, ensure your name, birth date, state/local government, subjects etc. are correct.
- Gather your O’Level certificates, birth certificate, passport photos etc.
Step 5: Prepare for Post‑UTME / Screening
- When UTME result comes out, if you meet the cut‑off mark (or close), apply for Post‑UTME in your chosen universities.
- Practice past screening questions; revise major science subjects.
Step 6: Attend Interview / Medical / Practical Tests
- If any university requires an oral or medical test, attend well prepared. Dress well, bring required documents.
Step 7: Accept Admission via CAPS & Register
- If admission offer comes, you accept via JAMB’s CAPS (Central Admissions Processing System).
- Proceed to pay school fees, matriculate, begin medical school training.
9. Pros and Cons of the Medicine Requirements
Knowing both sides helps you decide if the effort and cost are worth it.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Medicine is a highly respected and rewarding profession. | Very high competition; you need excellent academic results. |
| Doctors are needed; often good pay and job security. | Entry requirements are demanding; UTME cut‑offs are high. |
| Many universities offer strong practical and clinical training. | School fees (especially in private universities) can be very high. |
| The training educates you in many sciences, critical thinking, care. | Medical school is long (often 6 years), with difficult workload. |
| Once qualified, many career paths open: surgery, research, public health etc. | Stressful training; possible financial sacrifice; high expectations. |
10. Comparison: Medicine Admission vs Other Highly Competitive Courses
Medicine is often grouped with courses like Law, Engineering, Pharmacy. Here is how admission requirements compare.
| Feature | Medicine & Surgery | Engineering / Pharmacy / Law |
|---|---|---|
| Required UTME subject combo | Biology, Chemistry, Physics + English | Engineering: Maths, Physics, Chemistry; Pharmacy similar; Law: English, Literature etc. |
| O’Level requirements | Strong science credits, often high grades in Biology, Chemistry, Physics | Also strong grades but depending on course, science subjects may differ; Law needs more arts/humanities |
| UTME / Cut‑off score | Very high; among highest in universities | High but sometimes slightly lower than medicine in many universities |
| Post‑UTME screening | Often includes science tests and sometimes medical fitness / interview | Similar but may have different emphases (e.g. math skills for engineering) |
| Duration of studies | Usually 6 years (plus internship) | Engineering often 5 years; Law 5‑6 years; Pharmacy similar depending on curriculum |
11. Examples / Student Scenarios Illustrating the Requirements
Example A: Adebola aiming for University of Ibadan (UI)
- Adebola has O’Level credits in English B2, Physics B2, Chemistry B1, Biology B2, Maths C4, obtained in one sitting.
- She picks correct UTME subjects: English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics.
- She scores 255 in JAMB UTME. UI’s medicine cut‑off is ~250. She meets it.
- She applies for UI’s Post‑UTME, writes well. Also meets all other screening requirements. She gets offer.
Example B: Chukwu with Lower Score but Strong O’Levels
- Chukwu scores 230 in UTME; below UI’s medicine cut‑off but maybe enough for some state university.
- His O’Level: English C6, Physics C5, Chemistry B3, Biology B2, Maths B3 in two sittings.
- He applies to a less competitive federal or state university whose cut‑off for medicine that year is 230. Writes Post‑UTME, does interview well. Gets admitted to medicine in that less competitive university.
Example C: Maria via Private University Route
- Maria aims for private university with medical program. Private University X has cut‑off 240 for medicine.
- She meets O’Level, picks correct subjects, scores 242 in UTME.
- Private university includes internal screening + interview + medical test. Maria prepares, passes them. She is admitted and begins medical school in private university.
12. Summary Table: All Medicine Admission Requirements at a Glance
| Requirement | Minimum / Typical Standard for Medicine & Surgery (2025) | Why It Is Important | How to Meet / Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| UTME Cut‑Off Mark | ~240‑250 (can vary per university) | To qualify for screening and show academic strength among applicants | Aim for high score; use past questions; study hard; focus on speed & accuracy |
| UTME Subject Combination | English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics | If you pick wrong subjects, you may be disqualified | Register correctly; double‑check subject codes; ask guidance counsellor |
| O’Level Subjects & Grades | Credit passes in English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics + one other; strong grades | Good foundation in sciences; many schools require good grades to compete | Revise well; attend extra classes if needed; do both theory & practicals |
| Number of Sittings Allowed | Typically one or two sittings | Multiple sittings accepted, but one sitting seen more favourable | Plan to get all credits in one sitting if possible; prepare early |
| Screening / Post‑UTME | Good performance in screening; sometimes other tests/interview/appraisal | It filters candidates further after UTME; can compensate for small deficits | Practice screening past questions; prepare for interview; understand medical school expectations |
| Physical / Age / Fitness | Likely minimum age (~16+); good health; physical fitness | Medical training is demanding; hospitals rotations require stamina | Maintain health; get medical check if required; meet safety / health standards |
| Documentation | O’Level results, UTME result, birth certificate, ID, passport photo etc. | Without correct documents admission may be delayed or rejected | Gather early; ensure documents correct; avoid forgeries |
| Admission via CAPS / Acceptance | Must accept offer in JAMB CAPS; register school properly | Official admission depends on CAPS system and registration | Monitor CAPS; accept when offered; pay fees on time |
14. Conclusion
Getting admitted to study Medicine & Surgery in Nigeria in 2025 demands hard work, careful preparation, and meeting strict requirements. Here are the key takeaways:
- You must choose the correct subjects in UTME: English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics.
- You must excel in O’Level (WAEC/NECO etc.) in science subjects with credit passes, ideally strong grades.
- You must meet high JAMB / UTME cut‑off marks; for top schools usually ~240‑250 or more.
- You must perform well in Post‑UTME / screening and interview stages.
- Other requirements: health, documentation, possibly age, character.
If you prepare early, study well, gather your documents, and aim high, you have a good chance to succeed. Medicine is demanding, but with discipline and good planning, many have done it before and you too can.
