The cut off mark for medicine and surgery in Nigerian universities is one of the most searched topics on our site — and for good reason. Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) is the most competitive undergraduate programme in Nigeria, and knowing the exact JAMB cut-off mark for each university is the first step to planning a successful 2026 admission. In this fully updated 2026 guide, we cover the official JAMB cut-off marks for medicine and surgery across all federal, state, and private universities in Nigeria, plus departmental score requirements, O’Level subject requirements, and practical tips to strengthen your application.
What Is a Cut Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery?
A cut-off mark is the minimum JAMB UTME score a candidate must have to be considered for admission into a particular university and course. For medicine and surgery, this is set by each institution in consultation with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). Scoring at or above the cut-off does not guarantee admission — it only makes you eligible to apply. Actual admission is determined by your combined score (JAMB + Post-UTME) relative to other applicants.
JAMB Requirements for Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria 2026
Before checking individual university cut-offs, every aspiring medical student must meet these baseline JAMB requirements for 2026:
- JAMB subject combination: English Language, Chemistry, Biology, and Physics (or Mathematics in some universities)
- Minimum JAMB score: 200 (national minimum), but most universities set their internal cut-offs much higher
- O’Level requirements: Credits in English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics at WAEC/NECO/NABTEB in not more than two sittings
- Post-UTME: Most universities require a separate Post-UTME screening after JAMB
- Age requirement: Minimum 16 years at the point of entry (some schools require 17+)
Cut Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery in Federal Universities 2026
Federal universities generally have the highest cut-off marks for medicine and surgery in Nigeria. The table below shows the 2026 JAMB cut-off marks for MBBS programmes in federal universities. Note that the JAMB cut-off is the minimum — competitive candidates typically score well above these thresholds.
University | State | JAMB Cut-Off Mark (Medicine) |
|---|---|---|
University of Lagos (UNILAG) | Lagos | 300 |
University of Ibadan (UI) | Oyo | 300 |
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | Osun | 300 |
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | Enugu | 280 |
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) | Kaduna | 280 |
University of Benin (UNIBEN) | Edo | 280 |
University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) | Kwara | 280 |
University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) | Rivers | 270 |
Bayero University Kano (BUK) | Kano | 250 |
University of Calabar (UNICAL) | Cross River | 250 |
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU) | Anambra | 250 |
University of Jos (UNIJOS) | Plateau | 250 |
Usmanu Danfodiyo University (UDUS) | Sokoto | 220 |
University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) | Borno | 200 |
Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) | Ekiti | 200 |
Cut Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery in State Universities 2026
State universities generally set lower cut-off marks than federal universities for medicine and surgery, making them a viable option for candidates with scores below 280. However, state universities still require strong Post-UTME performance.
University | State | JAMB Cut-Off Mark (Medicine) |
|---|---|---|
Lagos State University (LASU) | Lagos | 200 |
Ambrose Alli University (AAU) | Edo | 200 |
Delta State University (DELSU) | Delta | 200 |
Rivers State University (RSU) | Rivers | 200 |
Enugu State University (ESUT) | Enugu | 200 |
Ladoke Akintola University (LAUTECH) | Oyo/Osun | 220 |
Benue State University (BSU) | Benue | 200 |
Niger Delta University (NDU) | Bayelsa | 200 |
Kogi State University | Kogi | 200 |
Ondo State University of Medical Sciences (OSUMS) | Ondo | 200 |
Cut Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery in Private Universities 2026
Private universities accredited to run the MBBS programme in Nigeria often set lower JAMB cut-off marks, but charge significantly higher tuition fees. They remain a strong option for candidates who do not gain entry into federal or state universities.
University | State | JAMB Cut-Off Mark (Medicine) |
|---|---|---|
Babcock University | Ogun | 200 |
Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) | Ekiti | 200 |
Baze University | Abuja | 200 |
Madonna University | Enugu/Anambra | 200 |
Igbinedion University | Edo | 180 |
Bowen University | Osun | 200 |
Achievers University | Ondo | 180 |
Novena University | Delta | 180 |
Note: Cut-off marks are reviewed annually. Always verify the current year’s cut-off on the official JAMB portal (jamb.gov.ng) and the university’s admissions page before applying.
JAMB Cut-Off vs Departmental Cut-Off for Medicine 2026
Many students confuse the JAMB cut-off mark with the departmental cut-off mark. Here is the key difference:
- JAMB cut-off mark: The minimum score set by JAMB below which a university will not consider a candidate. This is the nationally published threshold you see in this article.
- Departmental cut-off mark: The actual minimum aggregate score (JAMB + Post-UTME combined) that the Medicine department of a specific university uses to shortlist candidates for admission in a given year. This changes annually based on the number of applicants and available spaces.
For example, UNILAG may have a JAMB cut-off of 300 for Medicine — but if you scored 310 and performed poorly in the Post-UTME, another candidate who scored 305 in JAMB and excelled in Post-UTME may be admitted over you. The aggregate is what ultimately determines admission.
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Admitted for Medicine and Surgery 2026
- Score as high as possible in JAMB: Aim for 280+ if you are targeting federal universities. Every extra point above the cut-off strengthens your position.
- Prepare seriously for Post-UTME: Medical schools’ Post-UTME tests are rigorous. Past questions, science subject mastery, and time management under exam conditions are essential.
- Have strong O’Level results: Credits in all five required subjects (English, Maths, Biology, Chemistry, Physics) are mandatory. Distinctions in Biology and Chemistry strengthen your application.
- Apply to multiple universities: Use JAMB’s change of institution process strategically. Some candidates apply to a less competitive university as a backup.
- Consider state and private universities: If your score is between 200–260, state and private universities offer legitimate pathways into medicine with MDCN-accredited programmes.
Related Guides on Universities.ng
- Cut Off Mark for Pharmacy in All Nigerian Universities — Full Updated List
- LASU Cut Off Mark for Pharmacy and All Courses
- List of Universities That Accept 140 Cut Off Mark in Nigeria
Frequently Asked Questions: Cut Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery 2026
What is the JAMB cut off mark for Medicine and Surgery in 2026?
The JAMB national minimum cut-off mark is 200 for all federal universities. However, individual universities set their own internal cut-offs — ranging from 200 (less competitive schools) to 300+ (UNILAG, UI, OAU). Always check your target university’s specific cut-off in the table above.
Can I study Medicine with a JAMB score of 200?
Yes — but only in universities that have set their cut-off at 200. These include some state universities (like LASU, AAU, DELSU) and certain private universities. However, scoring exactly 200 means you will need a near-perfect Post-UTME performance to be competitive, as Medicine typically has far more applicants than available spaces.
Which Nigerian university has the lowest cut off mark for Medicine?
Several private universities and some state universities accept candidates with as low as 180 (e.g., Igbinedion University, Achievers University). Among federal universities, universities like UNIMAID and FUOYE have cut-offs of 200. However, the school’s accreditation status with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) should always be verified before applying.
What JAMB subjects are required for Medicine and Surgery?
The standard JAMB subject combination for Medicine and Surgery is: English Language, Chemistry, Biology, and Physics. Some universities accept Mathematics in place of Physics — always confirm with your target school before registering for JAMB.
What O’Level subjects do I need for Medicine and Surgery admission?
You must have five credit passes at WAEC/NECO/NABTEB in: English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics — all in not more than two sittings. Some universities accept two sittings; others insist on one sitting. Check your target university’s specific requirement.
How is the Medicine and Surgery admission aggregate score calculated?
Most Nigerian universities use a weighted formula: JAMB score contributes approximately 60% and Post-UTME score contributes 40% of your total aggregate. Some universities may weight these differently — confirm the exact formula on your target school’s admissions page or in their official Post-UTME guidelines.
Final Thoughts: Securing Medicine and Surgery Admission in Nigeria 2026
The cut off mark for medicine and surgery is just the starting point — not the finish line. Scoring above your target university’s cut-off, performing well in Post-UTME, having strong O’Level results, and applying strategically across multiple options gives you the best chance of securing an MBBS admission in 2026. Use the tables in this guide to identify universities where your score is competitive, then prepare intensively for Post-UTME.
Bookmark this page for the latest 2026 updates. If your score currently falls below your dream school’s cut-off, do not give up — focus on maximising your Post-UTME performance, as that is the component you still have full control over. For more admission guides, browse the related articles below or visit our Cut Off Marks section.
Understanding the MBBS Programme Duration and Structure in Nigeria
Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) in Nigerian universities is a six-year programme for UTME entrants (five years for Direct Entry candidates with relevant A-Level or pre-degree qualifications). The first one to two years are typically spent in pre-clinical studies covering Anatomy, Physiology, and Biochemistry. Years three and four cover pathology, pharmacology, and microbiology, while the final years focus on clinical rotations across specialties including Internal Medicine, Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Paediatrics, and Community Medicine. After completing the programme and passing the final professional examinations, graduates receive the MBBS degree and must complete a one-year housemanship before obtaining full MDCN registration.
Is Your Target Medical School Accredited by MDCN?
Before choosing a university based solely on its cut-off mark, confirm that its MBBS programme is accredited by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN). An MDCN-accredited programme ensures your degree is nationally recognised and that you can proceed to housemanship and full medical practice. Studying at an unaccredited school risks receiving a degree that cannot be used for professional registration. Check the MDCN website or contact the university directly to confirm accreditation status before applying.
Medicine and Surgery Tuition Fees in Nigeria 2026: What to Expect
Tuition fees for medicine and surgery vary significantly by institution type:
- Federal universities: Subsidised by the federal government. Most charge between ₦50,000 and ₦200,000 per session depending on the school.
- State universities: Generally charge between ₦150,000 and ₦500,000 per session for medicine programmes.
- Private universities: Fees can range from ₦1.5 million to ₦4 million or more per session. Some private medical schools charge even higher for MBBS.
Factor in the total cost of the 6-year programme (including hostel, feeding, and materials) when choosing between federal, state, and private options. A scholarship or loan scheme may be necessary for private medical schools.
One final piece of advice for aspiring medical students in Nigeria: do not limit yourself to a single university choice. The Nigerian medical school admission process is highly competitive — even candidates with JAMB scores above 300 are sometimes not admitted on the merit list due to high volume of applicants. Applying strategically, scoring maximally in Post-UTME, ensuring all your O’Level documents are complete and verified, and staying updated on supplementary admission lists are all critical habits that set successful medical students apart. Stay connected with universities.ng for the most up-to-date cut-off mark information and admission news for the 2026 academic session.