The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has set a general minimum cut off mark of 180 to 250 for Medical Laboratory Science programs in Nigerian universities for the 2025-2026 academic session.
Please note that these cut off mark are subject to change and may vary annually based on the institution’s admission policies and the overall performance of applicants.
This article will explain the JAMB cut off mark for Medical Laboratory Science for the 2025-2026 academic year and list the universities where you can study the program.
What is Medical Laboratory Science?
Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) is a healthcare profession focused on the study, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases through laboratory testing and analysis.
Professionals in this field, called Medical Laboratory Scientists or Medical Laboratory Technologists, play a critical role in the healthcare system by providing essential information to physicians for the prevention, diagnosis, and management of diseases.
What is a JAMB Cut Off Mark?
A JAMB cut off mark is the minimum score set by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) required for candidates to be eligible for admission into tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
Knowing the cut off mark for each course is crucial if you want to get into Medical Laboratory Technology or Science programs.
JAMB Cut off Mark For Medical Laboratory Science In Nigerian Universities 2025-2026
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has set a general minimum cut off mark of 180 to 250 for Medical Laboratory Science programs in Nigerian universities for the 2025-2026 academic session.
The table below lists the cut off mark for each university offering Medical Laboratory Science programs.
1. Adekunle Ajasin University: 180
2. Afe Babalola University: 180
3. Babcock University: 180
4. Bayero University: 200
5. University of Benin: 200
6. University of Calabar: 180
7. Ebonyi State University: 180
8. University of Ibadan: 200
9. Igbinedion University: 180
10. Imo State University: 180
11. University of Jos: 180
12. University of Lagos: 200
13. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology: 180
14. Madonna University: 180
15. University of Maiduguri: 180
16. Niger Delta University: 180
17. Usman Dan Fodio University: 180
18. Nnamdi Azikiwe University: 180
19. University of Nigeria: 200
Advice for Admission to Medical Laboratory Science Programs in 2025-2026
1. High JAMB Score: Even though most universities have a minimum cut off mark of 180 to 250, it is always preferable to score higher because a higher score increases your chances of getting admitted, especially if you are competitive.
2. Ger Ready for Post-UTME: Make sure you prepare for the post-UTME exam, which some universities require students to take after the JAMB, as it will also affect your chances of being admitted.
3. Your O’Level Results: You need five credits in your O-level results to study Medical Laboratory Technology or Science. These credits must be earned in subjects like English, mathematics, biology, chemistry, and physics.
Admission Requirements for Medical Laboratory Science 2025-2026
The admission requirements for Medical Laboratory Science in Nigerian universities for the 2025-2026 academic session generally include the following:
1. Minimum JAMB Score: Candidates must meet the general JAMB cut off mark (usually between 180 and 250, depending on the institution).
2. O’Level Requirements (WAEC/NECO): Candidates must have at least five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects, which include English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. These results must be obtained in no more than two sittings.
3. Post-UTME/Screening: Most universities conduct a post-UTME examination or screening.
Candidates must meet the institution’s departmental cut off mark for Medical Laboratory Science (often higher due to the course’s competitive nature).
Direct Entry Requirements (For Advanced Level Candidates)
Direct Entry candidates must have:
1. A National Diploma (ND) in a related field or an equivalent qualification with at least upper credit.
2. Two (2) or more A-Level passes in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics.
3. A good performance in JAMB Direct Entry (DE) registration.
Specific University Requirements
Some universities may have additional criteria, such as:
1. Catchment area considerations (for federal universities).
2. Special certifications or professional qualifications related to the medical field.
3. Interviews or practical skill assessments.
Other Important Factors
1. Candidates must be at least 16 years old by the time of admission.
2. Ensure you have up-to-date information about the specific requirements of your chosen institution.
JAMB Subject Combination for Medical Laboratory Science 2025-2026
The JAMB subject combination for Medical Laboratory Science for the 2025-2026 academic session is as follows:
1. English Language (Mandatory for all candidates)
2. Biology
3. Chemistry
4. Physics
These subjects are essential because they align with the core sciences required for studying Medical Laboratory Science, which involves understanding biological processes, chemical analysis, and technical diagnostic skills.
Additional Notes
Mathematics is not required in JAMB for this course but is essential at the O’Level (WAEC or NECO) stage.
Some universities may require a high aggregate score in these subjects due to the competitiveness of the course.
Ensure you check the specific requirements of the institution you’re applying to, as slight variations may exist.
What Happens if I Score Below the cut off mark?
If your score is below the required cut off mark:
1. Consider applying for a less competitive course and later switching to Medical Laboratory Science through transfer policies.
2. Enroll in a remedial or pre-degree program.
3. Reattempt JAMB in the next session.
FAQs
What is the General JAMB Cut Off Mark for Medical Laboratory Science?
The general minimum cut off mark for Medical Laboratory Science in Nigerian universities is 180 to 250 for most top-tier schools, although it varies based on the institution.
Do all Universities have the same Cut Off Mark?
No, universities set their specific departmental cut off mark for Medical Laboratory Science. For example:
1. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria: 250+
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG): 250
3. University of Benin (UNIBEN): 220–240
4. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN): 200–230
5. Ambrose Alli University (AAU): 200
Does Meeting the Cut Off Mark Guarantee Admission?
No, meeting the cut off mark qualifies you for post-UTME or screening but does not guarantee admission. Other factors include post-UTME performance, O’Level results, admission quotas and available slots, and catchment area considerations.
Can I Study Medical Laboratory Science with a JAMB Score Below 200?
It depends on the university. Some institutions (e.g., state universities) may accept scores slightly below 200, but federal universities generally require higher scores due to competitiveness.
What are the Required JAMB Subjects for Medical Laboratory Science?
The required subjects are: English Language (compulsory), Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
How do I Improve my Chances of Admission with a High Cut-off?
1. Score as high as possible in JAMB.
2. Prepare thoroughly for the university’s post-UTME.
3. Ensure you meet O’Level requirements with excellent grades (especially in core science subjects).
4. Apply to institutions with slightly lower competition if needed.
Can Direct Entry Candidates Apply for Medical Laboratory Science?
Yes, Direct Entry candidates with qualifications like A-Level passes in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, or a National Diploma (ND) in a related field, can apply.
Which Universities Are the Best for Medical Laboratory Science in Nigeria?
Top universities offering Medical Laboratory Science include University of Lagos (UNILAG), University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), University of Benin (UNIBEN), and University of Ilorin (UNILORIN).
When Does JAMB Registration for 2025-2026 Start?
JAMB typically announces registration dates early in the year. Check the official JAMB website for updates.
In Conclusion
If you want to study Medical Laboratory Technology or Science in Nigeria, you must be aware of the JAMB cut off mark that your chosen university requires. In general, the cut off mark ranges from 180 to 250.
Some universities, like Bayero University, the University of Benin, and the University of Nigeria, set their cut off mark at 200, while others, like Adekunle Ajasin University, the University of Calabar, and Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, require 180.
Make sure to work hard in your studies and aim for a score above the cut off mark to increase your chances of being admitted into this crucial course in the medical field.
