The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) plays a vital role in the university admission process in Nigeria. For the 2025/2026 academic session, JAMB sets the minimum scores that candidates must achieve to be considered for admission into various programs, including Medicine and Surgery. These cut-off marks are essential in determining whether a candidate can proceed to the next stage of the admission process, typically the post-UTME screening.
What is the JAMB Cut-Off Mark?
JAMB determines a national minimum cut-off mark for all courses. For the 2025/2026 academic session, this minimum score is set at 160. Candidates who score 160 or above in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) are eligible to participate in the post-UTME or other selection processes, depending on the university’s specific admission requirements.
However, for highly competitive courses like Medicine and Surgery, the minimum cut-off mark is typically much higher, as there is intense competition due to the high demand for limited spots in medical schools across Nigeria.
Cut-Off Marks for Medicine and Surgery by University
While the general JAMB cut-off mark is a starting point, each university may set its own specific cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery, based on factors such as the number of applicants, the availability of spaces, and institutional priorities. Below is a breakdown of the cut-off marks for some prominent Nigerian universities offering Medicine and Surgery:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
The minimum JAMB score required for Medicine and Surgery at UNILAG is typically around 240. However, candidates should be aware that meeting this cut-off mark does not guarantee admission, as post-UTME and other admission criteria will also be considered. - University of Benin (UNIBEN)
UNIBEN usually sets a cut-off mark of 200 for Medicine and Surgery. As this is a competitive program, applicants must aim to score well above this to increase their chances of being shortlisted. - University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
For Medicine and Surgery at UNN, candidates generally need to score 200 or higher in their JAMB exams. Again, achieving the cut-off mark is only the first step, and performance in the post-UTME and other assessments is crucial. - University of Calabar (UNICAL)
UNICAL’s cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery is 200. The high demand for spots in this program means that candidates must be prepared for intense competition. - University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
UNIPORT typically requires a JAMB score of 180 or higher for admission into Medicine and Surgery. However, as with other universities, this is just the initial threshold, and applicants must perform well in subsequent stages of the admission process. - Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife
For OAU, the cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery is 200. As this is a highly sought-after program, applicants are advised to score higher to be competitive. - Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
The cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery at ABU is typically set at 190, but as with other universities, exceeding this mark is advisable for applicants aiming for a spot in the program.
Factors Influencing the Cut-Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery
Several factors determine the cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery, including:
- Demand vs. Supply: The number of applicants for Medicine and Surgery often far exceeds the available spaces. This means that universities may increase their cut-off marks to limit the number of candidates who can proceed to the next stage of admission.
- Performance of Candidates: If the overall performance of candidates in the UTME is exceptionally high, universities might raise their cut-off marks to select the best candidates. Conversely, if performance is lower than expected, universities might reduce the cut-off marks slightly.
- Institutional Policies: Each university has its own admission policies and may decide to adjust the cut-off mark based on internal factors, such as academic performance trends or available teaching resources.
- Quota and Capacity: Some universities have limited spaces for certain programs, and this can affect the cut-off marks. Higher cut-off marks may be set when the available slots are few.
How to Increase Your Chances of Admission into Medicine and Surgery
- Aim for a High UTME Score: As Medicine and Surgery is one of the most competitive programs in Nigerian universities, it is crucial to score significantly above the minimum cut-off mark to increase your chances of being shortlisted for further screening.
- Perform Well in Post-UTME and Other Tests: Many universities require candidates to undergo post-UTME exams or other forms of screening. It is essential to perform well in these assessments, as universities often use them to further filter candidates.
- Stay Updated: Admission requirements can change, so it is important to stay updated by regularly checking the official websites of the universities you are interested in. You can also follow news from JAMB to ensure you are aware of any changes in the admission process.
- Prepare Early: Preparation for the UTME and post-UTME requires dedication and time. Start preparing well in advance to increase your chances of success. Consider taking preparatory courses or using study materials designed specifically for the JAMB exam.
Conclusion
Admission into Medicine and Surgery is highly competitive, and candidates need to aim for high JAMB scores, typically above the general cut-off mark of 160, to have a good chance of being considered. Each university sets its own cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery, with top universities often requiring scores in the range of 200 and above. By aiming for a high score in the UTME, excelling in post-UTME screenings, and staying informed about the admission process, you can improve your chances of securing a spot in this prestigious program.
Be sure to check the official JAMB website and your chosen university’s admissions portal for the latest information regarding cut-off marks and other requirements for the 2025/2026 academic session.
