If you aspire to study Medicine or any medical-related course in Nigeria, choosing the right university is crucial. Nigeria is home to several top-rated universities that offer accredited and competitive medical programs. These institutions provide world-class education, intensive clinical exposure, and high standards for academic and professional development.
In this post, we’ll highlight the top 10 best universities in Nigeria that offer medical courses, along with their admission requirements for undergraduate applicants.
1. University of Ibadan (UI)
Location: Ibadan, Oyo State
Popular Courses: Medicine and Surgery, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Public Health, Dentistry
Admission Requirements:
- Minimum of 5 credits in WAEC/NECO including English, Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology
- Minimum JAMB UTME score: 270+
- Post-UTME screening and high aggregate score
Why UI:
The oldest and most prestigious university in Nigeria, UI boasts well-equipped teaching hospitals and advanced research facilities.
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
Location: Lagos State
Popular Courses: Medicine and Surgery, Nursing Science, Medical Laboratory Science, Dentistry
Admission Requirements:
- 5 O’Level credits in relevant science subjects
- JAMB UTME score: 260+ for Medicine
- Competitive post-UTME screening
Why UNILAG:
UNILAG College of Medicine is highly regarded for its quality medical training and clinical partnerships with Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).
3. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
Location: Zaria, Kaduna State
Popular Courses: Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Radiography, Medical Laboratory Science
Admission Requirements:
- Minimum of 5 O’Level credits
- JAMB score: 250+ for Medicine
- Post-UTME and physical screening
Why ABU:
With a large student base and well-resourced teaching hospital, ABU is a hub for northern Nigeria’s medical education.
4. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State
Popular Courses: Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Medical Rehabilitation
Admission Requirements:
- 5 credits in O’Level exams including English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Maths
- JAMB score: 260+ for MBBS
- OAU Post-UTME score: Very competitive
Why OAU:
OAU offers one of the most rigorous and reputable medical training programs in West Africa.
5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
Location: Enugu State
Popular Courses: Medicine, Medical Laboratory Science, Nursing, Dentistry, Physiotherapy
Admission Requirements:
- 5 O’Level credits including core science subjects
- UTME score: 260+ for Medicine
- Post-UTME cut-off depends on course competitiveness
Why UNN:
UNN’s College of Medicine is renowned for its strong academic curriculum and practical experience through UNTH (University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital).
6. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
Location: Benin City, Edo State
Popular Courses: Medicine, Nursing, Medical Laboratory Science, Pharmacy
Admission Requirements:
- 5 O’Level credits in relevant science subjects
- UTME score: 250+
- Strong performance in post-UTME exam
Why UNIBEN:
UNIBEN has one of the best teaching hospitals in southern Nigeria and an excellent track record of graduate success.
7. Lagos State University (LASU)
Location: Lagos State
Popular Courses: Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Pharmacology
Admission Requirements:
- 5 credits in WAEC/NECO
- JAMB score: 250+ for Medicine
- LASU post-UTME and physical screening
Why LASU:
Affordable tuition, quality training, and strategic location in Lagos make LASU a top choice.
8. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
Location: Kwara State
Popular Courses: Medicine, Nursing, Anatomy, Physiology
Admission Requirements:
- 5 relevant credits in O’Level exams
- JAMB score: 250+
- Post-UTME: Highly competitive
Why UNILORIN:
UNILORIN is known for its uninterrupted academic calendar and disciplined learning environment.
9. Niger Delta University (NDU)
Location: Bayelsa State
Popular Courses: Medicine, Nursing, Medical Laboratory Science
Admission Requirements:
- Minimum of 5 credits in core science subjects
- JAMB score: 230+ for Medicine
- NDU post-UTME screening
Why NDU:
Emerging as a strong contender in the Niger Delta, NDU has well-structured medical programs with growing infrastructure.
10. Delta State University (DELSU)
Location: Abraka, Delta State
Popular Courses: Medicine, Nursing, Anatomy, Medical Biochemistry
Admission Requirements:
- Minimum of 5 science credits
- UTME score: 240+ for Medicine
- DELSU post-UTME screening
Why DELSU:
DELSU’s Faculty of Medicine is known for academic excellence and access to government health facilities for training.
General Admission Tips for Medical Courses in Nigeria
- Aim for high JAMB and post-UTME scores (especially for competitive courses like MBBS).
- Choose science-based subjects in WAEC/NECO, especially Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics.
- Stay updated on cut-off marks and departmental requirements as they vary yearly.
- Prepare for possible interviews or screening exercises at some institutions.
- Apply early during JAMB registration and be strategic with your school choices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which university is the best for Medicine in Nigeria?
The University of Ibadan (UI) is widely regarded as the best for Medicine due to its long-standing reputation and facilities.
2. What is the JAMB cut-off for Medicine in Nigeria?
Most top universities require a minimum JAMB score of 250–270 for Medicine and Surgery.
3. Can I study Medicine without Physics in WAEC?
No. Physics is generally a required subject for Medicine and many other medical-related courses.
4. Are private universities offering Medicine in Nigeria?
Yes. Schools like Babcock University, Afe Babalola University, and Madonna University offer accredited medical programs.
5. What’s the duration of studying Medicine in Nigeria?
Medicine typically takes 6 years plus 1 year of housemanship and 1 year of NYSC.
Conclusion
Selecting the right university is vital for a successful medical career in Nigeria. These 10 institutions stand out for their academic excellence, professional training, and consistent performance in the health sector. Whether you aim to become a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or lab scientist, make sure you meet the requirements and start preparing early to secure your admission.
