JAMB Cut Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery for the 2026/2027 Academic Session: Every year, Medicine and Surgery records some of the highest JAMB scores in Nigeria, yet many strong candidates still lose their admission chances. The reason is rarely failure. It is misunderstanding how the cut off mark actually works. If you plan to study Medicine and Surgery in the 2026/2027 admission year, you cannot afford to guess. This course is highly competitive, and the difference between being shortlisted and being ignored can be just a few marks. The general JAMB cut off mark does not apply the same way here, and relying on it has cost many students their dreams.
This guide breaks down the real JAMB cut off mark for Medicine and Surgery, what top universities expect, and the score you should target if you want a serious chance. Read carefully. For this course, every mark counts.
What is the JAMB Cut Off Mark?
The JAMB cut-off mark is the minimum score set by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board that allows a candidate to be considered for admission into a Nigerian university. It serves as the basic eligibility score. Each university and department may later set a higher score based on competition.
What is the JAMB Cut Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery for the 2026/2027 Academic Session?
JAMB’s general cut-off mark for universities usually falls between 140 and 160, depending on the admission year. However, this score is only the baseline. For Medicine and Surgery, most universities require a much higher score, commonly 250 and above. Highly competitive medical schools may require scores closer to 270–300, depending on demand and available slots.
| University | Type | JAMB Cut-Off Mark Medicine & Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| University of Ibadan | Federal | 275–300 |
| University of Lagos | Federal | 280–300 |
| Obafemi Awolowo University | Federal | 270–290 |
| Ahmadu Bello University | Federal | 260–280 |
| University of Nigeria, Nsukka | Federal | 265–285 |
| University of Benin | Federal | 270–290 |
| University of Ilorin | Federal | 260–280 |
| Bayero University Kano | Federal | 260–280 |
| University of Jos | Federal | 250–270 |
| University of Calabar | Federal | 250–270 |
| University of Port Harcourt | Federal | 260–280 |
| Usmanu Danfodiyo University | Federal | 250–270 |
| University of Uyo | Federal | 250–270 |
| University of Maiduguri | Federal | 250–270 |
| Federal University Lafia | Federal | 240–260 |
| Federal University Oye-Ekiti | Federal | 240–260 |
| Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike | Federal | 240–260 |
| Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare | Federal | 200–230 |
| Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun | Federal | 200–230 |
| Lagos State University | State | 250–270 |
| Delta State University | State | 250–270 |
| Ebonyi State University | State | 240–260 |
| Ekiti State University | State | 240–260 |
| Abia State University | State | 240–260 |
| Benue State University | State | 240–260 |
| Rivers State University | State | 250–270 |
| Bayelsa Medical University | State | 220–240 |
| Olabisi Onabanjo University | State | 240–260 |
| Gombe State University | State | 240–260 |
| Kogi State University | State | 240–260 |
| Prince Abubakar Audu University | State | 240–260 |
| Kano University of Science and Technology | State | 230–250 |
| Babcock University | Private | 250–270 |
| Bowen University | Private | 250–270 |
| Afe Babalola University | Private | 260–280 |
| Madonna University | Private | 240–260 |
| Igbinedion University | Private | 230–250 |
| Lead City University | Private | 220–240 |
| Bingham University | Private | 240–260 |
| PAMO University of Medical Sciences | Private | 220–240 |
| Edwin Clark University | Private | 220–240 |
| Gregory University, Uturu | Private | 220–240 |
Factors Influencing the Cut-Off Mark
Several factors affect the cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery, including:
- Number of applicants for the course
- Admission quota approved for the university
- Overall performance of candidates in JAMB
- School reputation and competitiveness
- Availability of facilities and teaching hospitals
Also Check: Best JAMB Subject Combination for Medicine and Surgery 2026/2027
Why is the Cut Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery so high?
Medicine and Surgery is one of the most competitive courses in Nigeria. The reasons include limited admission spaces, long duration of study, strict professional regulations, and high demand from applicants. Because many candidates apply and only a few are admitted, universities raise their cut-off marks to select the strongest candidates.
How can I increase my chances of meeting the Cut-Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery?
You can improve your chances by:
- Scoring very high in JAMB, especially in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
- Preparing seriously for Post UTME or screening
- Having strong O’Level results with one sitting where possible
- Applying to universities where you meet or exceed previous cut-off trends
What other factors besides the JAMB Cut-Off Mark are considered for admission into Medicine and Surgery?
Apart from JAMB score, universities also consider:
- Post UTME or screening performance
- O’Level grades, especially in science subjects
- Aggregate score calculation
- Admission quota and catchment policies
Meeting the cut-off mark alone does not guarantee admission.
What should I do if I don’t meet the Cut-Off mark for Medicine and Surgery?
If you fall short of the cut-off mark, you can:
- Consider a change of course to a related medical or science program
- Apply to private universities with flexible requirements
- Retake JAMB the following year with better preparation
- Explore alternative career paths in health sciences
How do I apply for Medicine and Surgery once I meet the Cut-Off mark?
Once you meet the cut-off mark:
- Choose Medicine and Surgery during JAMB registration
- Select universities where your score is competitive
- Participate in Post UTME or screening
- Monitor your admission status on JAMB CAPS
- Accept the offer once admitted
Conclusion
The cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery is high because the course is highly competitive and limited in capacity. Candidates should aim far above the minimum requirement, prepare well for Post UTME, and always verify school-specific requirements early. Proper planning and accurate information greatly improve admission chances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the JAMB cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery?
Think of it in two parts. JAMB sets a general minimum score for all universities, but for Medicine and Surgery, most schools look for 250 and above. Competitive universities may expect even higher.
Is meeting the cut-off mark enough to secure admission?
Not really. Meeting the cut-off mark only keeps you in the race. Admission depends on how your score compares with other candidates, plus your Post UTME and O’Level results.
Can I study Medicine and Surgery with a low JAMB score?
In most cases, no. Medicine and Surgery is highly competitive. However, some private universities may consider lower scores, especially if your O’Level results are strong.
Do all universities use the same cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery?
No. Each university sets its own departmental cut-off mark. That’s why one school may accept 250, while another may require 280 or more.
Does Post UTME really affect my chances?
Yes, it does. A strong Post UTME score can significantly boost your aggregate and improve your chances, even if your JAMB score is not the highest.
What happens if I score above the cut-off mark but still don’t get admitted?
This happens often. It simply means other candidates had higher aggregate scores or the school’s admission quota was filled. That’s why aiming far above the minimum is always safer.
Should I still apply if my score is just slightly above the cut-off mark?
You can, but be realistic. It’s better to apply to schools where your score is well above their usual cut-off trend.
