JAMB Subject Combination for Medicine and Surgery: Are you dreaming of becoming a medical doctor in Nigeria? If yes, then one of the most important steps in your journey is understanding the right JAMB subject combination for Medicine and Surgery. Every year, thousands of students lose admission opportunities not because they scored low, but because they chose the wrong subject combination during JAMB registration. This simple mistake can cost you an entire academic year. In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know about the JAMB subject requirements, O’Level requirements, Direct Entry qualifications, universities offering Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria, and tips to help you succeed. By the end of this article, you will have a clear roadmap that can make your admission dream a reality.

What is JAMB Subject Combination?

The JAMB subject combination refers to the four subjects a candidate is required to register for in the UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination), depending on the course they want to study. Each course in Nigeria has its own subject requirements, and failure to choose the correct subjects can automatically disqualify you, even if you score 300+.

For Medicine and Surgery, the JAMB subject combination is carefully designed to test your knowledge in the sciences, especially in areas relevant to human health and medical practice.

Why is Subject Combination Important for Medicine and Surgery?

Medicine and Surgery is one of the most competitive courses in Nigeria, and only students with the right qualifications and subject mix are considered for admission. Choosing the wrong subject combination will:

• Make you ineligible for admission, even with high JAMB and Post-UTME scores.
• Waste your time, effort, and money.
• Delay your dream of becoming a doctor.

On the other hand, choosing the correct subject combination:

• Increases your chances of admission.
• Shows you are academically prepared.
• Keeps you aligned with both JAMB and university requirements.

JAMB Subject Combination for Medicine and Surgery

The official JAMB subject combination for Medicine and Surgery is:

1. English Language (Compulsory)
2. Biology
3. Physics
4. Chemistry

These four subjects are mandatory if you want to study Medicine and Surgery in any accredited university in Nigeria.

Why These Subjects?

• English Language – JAMB makes English compulsory for all courses because it is the primary medium of communication in Nigerian universities.
• Biology – Medicine is centered on the study of life and living organisms, especially the human body. Biology tests your foundational knowledge.
• Chemistry – Medicine involves understanding the chemical processes of life, drug composition, and laboratory analysis.
• Physics – Physics is necessary for understanding radiology, medical imaging, body mechanics, and instrumentation in medical practice.

O’Level Requirements for Medicine and Surgery

Apart from the correct JAMB subject combination, you must also meet the O’Level (WAEC/NECO/GCE) requirements. Candidates must have at least five (5) credit passes in the following subjects:

• English Language
• Mathematics
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Note: Some universities may accept a pass in Mathematics, but it’s always safer to aim for at least a Credit.

Direct Entry Requirements for Medicine and Surgery

For those applying through Direct Entry (DE) instead of UTME, the following qualifications are usually accepted:

• At least two (2) A’Level passes in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Zoology.
• B.Sc. (first class/second class upper) in related medical/biological sciences.
• Registered Nurse (RN), Registered Midwife (RM), or related professional qualification (depending on the university’s policy).
• UTME Score Requirement for Medicine and Surgery

Medicine and Surgery is one of the most competitive courses in Nigeria. To stand a good chance of being admitted:

• Aim for a minimum UTME score of 280+.
• Top federal universities may require 300 and above to stay competitive.
• Some private universities may consider 250 and above, depending on your Post-UTME performance.

Universities That Offer Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria

Medicine and Surgery is one of the oldest and most prestigious courses in Nigeria, and many federal, state, and private universities are accredited to run the program. Below is a list of universities that offer Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria (approved by the NUC and recognized by JAMB):

Federal Universities

• University of Ibadan (UI)
• University of Lagos (UNILAG)
• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
• Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (ABU)
• Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife (OAU)
• University of Benin (UNIBEN)
• University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
• University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
• University of Jos (UNIJOS)
• Bayero University Kano (BUK)
• Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (UDUSOK)
• Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (UNIZIK)
• University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
• University of Calabar (UNICAL)
• Federal University, Dutse (FUD)
• Federal University, Lokoja (FUL) – some still awaiting full accreditation.

State Universities

• Lagos State University (LASU)
• Delta State University (DELSU)
• Ekiti State University (EKSU)
• Kaduna State University (KASU)
• Osun State University (UNIOSUN)
• Imo State University (IMSU)
• Abia State University (ABSU)
• Benue State University (BSU)
• Rivers State University (RSU)
• Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ogun State

Private Universities

• Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD)
• Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo
• Bowen University, Iwo
• Igbinedion University, Okada
• Madonna University, Elele
• Gregory University, Uturu
• Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja
• PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Port Harcourt
• Bingham University, Karu

Cut-off Marks for Medicine and Surgery (2025/2026)

The JAMB general cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery is usually 200, but that does not guarantee admission. Each university sets its own cut-off based on competition.

Here are some common trends:

• UI, UNILAG, OAU, UNN, UNILORIN, ABU → usually 280 – 320
• State universities (LASU, DELSU, BSU, etc.) → around 260 – 280
• Private universities (ABUAD, Babcock, Madonna, etc.) → between 240 – 260

The higher your score, the better your chances, especially since Medicine is one of the most competitive courses in Nigeria.

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Why Medicine and Surgery Is Highly Competitive in Nigeria

Medicine and Surgery is one of the most competitive and prestigious courses in Nigeria, and for good reasons:

1. High Demand vs. Limited Slots
   Thousands of students apply every year, but universities can only admit a limited number due to facilities, staff, and accreditation limits.
2. Prestige and Career Opportunities
   Medicine is seen as one of the most respected professions. It offers opportunities in hospitals, research, academics, NGOs, and even international practice.
3. Financial Security
   Medical doctors often earn above average compared to other professions in Nigeria, which makes the course attractive to many students.
4. Parents’ Influence
   Many parents encourage their children to study Medicine because of the perceived prestige and opportunities.
5. Length of Study and Rigorous Training
   Unlike some courses, Medicine and Surgery requires at least 6 years in the university, plus internship and NYSC. Despite the stress, students still go for it because of the long-term reward.

Tips to Secure Admission into Medicine and Surgery (2025/2026)

If you are serious about studying Medicine and Surgery, here are some practical tips:

1. Score High in JAMB
   Aim for at least 280+. The higher, the better. This will give you a competitive edge over others.
2. Prepare Well for Post-UTME
   Some universities place more emphasis on Post-UTME. For instance, UNIBEN, UI, and UNILAG usually screen candidates rigorously.
3. Choose the Right School
   If your JAMB score is not very high, consider state or private universities that accept lower cut-off marks.
4. Have the Correct Subject Combination
   Remember: English + Physics + Chemistry + Biology is compulsory. Any mistake here will disqualify you automatically.
5. Work on Your O’level (WAEC/NECO) Results
   Medicine requires at least 5 credits in one sitting, including English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Some universities do not accept two sittings.
6. Stay Updated
   Always check your chosen university’s website or JAMB CAPS portal for the latest information. Admission policies change almost every year.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) on JAMB Subject Combination for Medicine and Surgery

What is the JAMB subject combination for Medicine and Surgery?

The correct subject combination is:

• Use of English (Compulsory)
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology
• This is the only approved combination by JAMB for Medicine and Surgery.

Can I use Mathematics instead of Physics in JAMB for Medicine?

No. Physics is compulsory. You cannot replace it with Mathematics. However, Mathematics is important at O’level as part of your required credits.

What is the JAMB cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery?

The general JAMB cut-off mark is 200, but most universities set their own. For Medicine and Surgery, you usually need 250 – 300+ depending on the school. For example, UNILAG and UI may demand 280+ to stand a chance.

Which universities are best for Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria?

Some of the top universities offering Medicine include:

• University of Ibadan (UI)
• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
• University of Lagos (UNILAG)
• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria)
• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
• Lagos State University (LASU)
• Delta State University (DELSU)
• Bayero University Kano (BUK)
• Federal University Dutse (FUD)
• Private options: Babcock, Bowen, Madonna, Afe Babalola University

Can I combine WAEC and NECO results to study Medicine?

Yes! Some universities allow two sittings (e.g., LASU, UNN), but most federal universities like UI, UNILAG, and OAU require one sitting with all 5 credits. Always check your chosen school’s admission policy.

How many years does it take to study Medicine in Nigeria?

Medicine and Surgery takes a minimum of 6 years in the university, followed by 1-year internship (housemanship) and 1-year NYSC.

Is Post-UTME compulsory for Medicine and Surgery?

Yes! Almost all Nigerian universities offering Medicine conduct Post-UTME or screening. Your performance in this exam largely determines your admission chances.

Can I gain admission into Medicine with a score of 220 in JAMB?

It depends on the university. Highly competitive schools like UI, OAU, and UNILAG may not admit you with 220. However, some state or private universities might consider you if you perform well in Post-UTME.

What are the O’level requirements for Medicine and Surgery?

You must have at least 5 credits in:

• English Language
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology

Some universities do not accept D7 or E8 in any of these subjects.

Can I switch from another course to Medicine after 100 level?

Yes, many universities allow inter-faculty transfer if you have excellent results (usually a CGPA of 4.5+ on a 5.0 scale). But this depends on the school’s policy.