Gaining admission into medical school in Nigeria is a dream for many students. With its prestige, career prospects, and impact on society, Medicine is one of the most competitive courses in the country. However, with the right information and strategy, you can significantly increase your chances of getting admitted. This updated 2025 guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from academic requirements to smart tips on how to stand out.
1. Meet the O'Level Requirements
The first and most essential step is to have the correct WAEC/NECO results.
Required Subjects:
You must have at least five (5) credits in:
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English Language
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Mathematics
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Physics
All credits must be obtained in not more than two sittings.
2. Choose the Right JAMB Subject Combination
To be eligible for admission, you must register for the correct JAMB UTME subjects. For Medicine and Surgery, these include:
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Use of English (compulsory)
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Physics
Scoring high in JAMB is crucial. Aim for a score of 270 or above to be competitive, especially for top federal universities like UI, UNILAG, OAU, UNN, and ABU Zaria.
3. Score High in Post-UTME
Post-UTME screening tests or assessments are conducted by most Nigerian universities. These can be written or online, depending on the school.
Tips to Excel:
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Study past Post-UTME questions of your chosen university
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Focus on Biology and Chemistry
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Practice CBT-based questions if your school uses computers
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Keep track of your target school's admission deadlines and screening details
4. Apply to Less Competitive Universities
While many students rush to apply to popular schools like UNILAG or UI, there are other reputable universities with slightly lower cut-off marks. Consider schools like:
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University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
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Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
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Lagos State University (LASU)
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Abia State University (ABSU)
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Bayero University Kano (BUK)
These schools still offer quality medical education but may have slightly more accessible admission processes.
5. Consider Private or State Universities
Private universities like Babcock University, Afe Babalola University, and Igbinedion University offer MBBS programs with world-class facilities. Though tuition may be higher, the admission process is often less stressful than federal universities.
State universities like:
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Delta State University (DELSU)
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Rivers State University
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Kaduna State University
also provide excellent medical programs and are worth exploring.
6. Use Direct Entry (DE) if You’re Qualified
If you have a degree, diploma, A-level, or are a registered nurse, you may apply through JAMB Direct Entry into medical school.
Accepted Qualifications for DE:
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BSc in related sciences
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Registered Nurse (RN) certificate
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JUPEB or IJMB A-Level passes in Biology, Chemistry & Physics
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OND or HND in health sciences (for some institutions)
Direct Entry admissions often start from 200 level, making it a faster route for qualified candidates.
7. Take Advantage of Catchment Areas and Educationally Less Developed States (ELDS)
Nigerian universities sometimes offer preferential admission to candidates from their catchment states or ELDS like:
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Zamfara
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Yobe
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Kebbi
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Ebonyi
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Taraba
If you’re from one of these states, your cut-off mark might be lower, giving you an edge.
8. Prepare Early and Avoid Common Mistakes
Avoid These Errors:
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Wrong subject combinations in JAMB
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Low JAMB or WAEC scores
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Missing deadlines for registration or Post-UTME
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Choosing only competitive schools without backup options
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Submitting incomplete documents or incorrect data
9. Try a Pre-Degree/Foundation Program
Many universities offer pre-degree or foundation programs that feed directly into 100 or 200 level of MBBS.
Some examples:
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UNILAG Foundation Program
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UNN JUPEB
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LASU Pre-degree
These programs help prepare you academically and give you a higher chance of admission.
10. Stay Informed and Seek Guidance
Stay up to date with:
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JAMB announcements
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University cut-off marks
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Application deadlines
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Post-UTME news
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Changes in admission policies
Also, talk to mentors, older students, or teachers who can guide you through the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the best JAMB score to gain admission into Medicine?
Aim for at least 270 or above, although the exact cut-off depends on the school and year.
Q2: Is Maths compulsory in WAEC for Medicine?
Yes. A credit in Mathematics is compulsory in WAEC/NECO for MBBS.
Q3: Can I study Medicine without writing Post-UTME?
No. Most universities require a Post-UTME or screening before offering admission.
Q4: Are private universities easier to gain admission into for Medicine?
Yes, private universities typically have less competitive admission processes, though fees are higher.
Q5: What if I fail JAMB, can I still study Medicine?
You can try again next year, or consider a pre-degree program or apply to a less competitive course and switch later if possible.
Conclusion
Getting into medical school in Nigeria is challenging, but not impossible. With excellent WAEC and JAMB scores, the right subject combinations, and smart school choices, your dream can come true. Consider all admission options, prepare early, and remain focused. Medicine is a noble and rewarding career, and your journey starts with a well-informed plan.
