Medicine and Surgery is one of the most sought-after and competitive courses in Nigeria. Every year, thousands of students aspire to become doctors and surgeons, but only a few succeed due to the rigorous admission process and lack of proper guidance. If you’re dreaming of pursuing a career in Medicine and Surgery, it’s crucial to understand the requirements, including the JAMB subject combination, WAEC subjects, direct entry requirements, and the list of accredited universities offering the course. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information to help you prepare effectively for the 2025/2026 admission cycle.
JAMB Subject Combination for Medicine and Surgery 2025/2026
The first step to studying Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria is to register for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). The UTME is a computer-based test that assesses your knowledge in four subjects. To qualify for Medicine and Surgery, you must choose the correct subject combination:
- English Language (compulsory for all courses)
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Physics
These four subjects are mandatory for Medicine and Surgery. Scoring at least 220 out of 400 in JAMB is recommended to increase your chances of admission. However, the cut-off mark may vary depending on the university you choose.
WAEC Subject Combination for Medicine and Surgery 2025/2026
In addition to JAMB, you must also meet the O’level requirements. To study Medicine and Surgery, you need at least five credits in your WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB examinations. The required subjects are:
- English Language (compulsory)
- Mathematics (compulsory)
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Physics
Any other three subjects from Arts or Social Sciences
You must obtain these credits in not more than two sittings to be eligible for admission. A strong O’level result is essential to meet the academic standards for Medicine and Surgery.
Direct Entry Requirements for Medicine and Surgery 2025/2026
If you’re applying through Direct Entry, you must meet specific qualifications. Here are the requirements:
- A’Level: At least two A’Level passes in Chemistry, Biology, Physics, or Mathematics.
- ND/HND: Upper credit in Science Laboratory Technology, Nursing, Radiography, or related fields.
- NCE: Merit pass in Chemistry, Biology, Physics, or Mathematics.
IJMB/JUPEB: A minimum of 13 points in relevant subjects.
Direct Entry candidates must also meet the specific requirements of their chosen university. Ensure you verify the criteria for your preferred institution before applying.
List of Accredited Universities Offering Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria 2025/2026
Choosing the right university is a critical step in your journey to becoming a medical doctor. Below is a list of accredited Nigerian universities offering Medicine and Surgery:
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- University of Port-Harcourt (UNIPORT)
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
- Bayero University Kano (BUK)
- University of Calabar (UNICAL)
- University of Uyo (UNIUYO)
- Babcock University
- Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
- Bowen University
- Madonna University
- Igbinedion University
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT)
Ensure the university you choose is accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
