UNICAL Admission Requirements 2026
The University of Calabar (UNICAL), located in Cross River State, is one of the better-established federal universities in the South-South region. Known for its scenic campus, decent academic programs, and growing research output, UNICAL is worth a serious look if you’re mapping out your 2026 university options. Here’s what the admission process looks like.
About the University of Calabar
UNICAL was established in 1975 and sits on a well-landscaped campus in Calabar, the capital of Cross River State. It offers programs across faculties including Sciences, Social Sciences, Arts, Law, Education, Agriculture, Management Sciences, and a College of Medical Sciences. The university has a reputation for a relatively calm and academic-focused environment compared to some busier urban campuses.
UNICAL JAMB Cut Off Mark 2026
The general JAMB cut off for UNICAL is 180. But as with all federal universities, what matters more is the departmental cut off — which is set by the university itself and tends to be significantly higher. Medicine and Surgery at UNICAL typically requires 260 and above. Law is usually around 240. For Engineering and Computer Science, expect 220 and above. Social Sciences and Education are more accessible at 190 to 210.
O’Level Requirements
Five O’Level credit passes in relevant subjects in not more than two sittings. English Language is required across all courses. The specific subject combination depends on your chosen faculty. Medicine needs Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics. Engineering needs Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and one other Science. Law needs English and four other subjects at credit level. Social Sciences typically need English, Mathematics, Economics, and two other relevant subjects.
UNICAL Post UTME 2026
UNICAL conducts a Post UTME aptitude test for candidates who made it their first-choice institution. The test is computer-based and usually covers subjects related to your area of study. Registration opens on UNICAL’s official website after JAMB releases results — typically between May and August. The registration fee is usually in the ₦2,000 to ₦3,500 range. Print your screening slip after registering and keep your JAMB result handy for exam day.
Departmental Cut Off Marks (Estimated for 2026)
Medicine and Surgery: 260 and above. Law: 240 and above. Pharmacy: 245 and above. Computer Science: 220 and above. Engineering (all departments): 215 to 230. Accounting: 205 and above. Mass Communication: 200 and above. Education and related programs: 180 to 195.
Popular Courses at UNICAL
Law, Medicine, Pharmacy, Computer Science, Accountancy, Mass Communication, and Tourism and Hospitality Management are among the most enrolled programs. UNICAL’s Tourism program is unique — Cross River State is one of Nigeria’s tourism hubs and the program has strong industry ties. Guidance and Counselling and Psychology are also well-regarded here.
How to Apply
The process is standard: sit JAMB UTME with UNICAL as first choice, score above the departmental cut off, register for Post UTME on UNICAL’s portal once results are out, sit the aptitude test, then check your status on JAMB CAPS and the UNICAL admissions portal. Nothing complicated — just don’t miss the Post UTME window.
Final Thoughts
UNICAL offers a good federal university education in an environment that many students find more relaxed and conducive than the large, crowded campuses of some other federal institutions. If you’re from the South-South or want a quality degree away from the chaos of Lagos or Abuja, it’s worth considering. Bookmark this page for official UNICAL 2026 admission updates.
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