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Subject Combinations 3% exam weight

Topic 6

Part of the JUPEB (Nigeria) study roadmap. Subject Combinations topic subjec-006 of Subject Combinations.

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Medicine and Dentistry direct entry requirements through JUPEB are among the most stringent in Nigerian university admissions. Understanding these requirements is critical for students aspiring to become doctors, dentists, or other healthcare professionals.

Minimum Requirements for Medicine

Subject Combination

Most Nigerian medical schools require:

  • Chemistry (Compulsory — most critical)
  • Biology (Compulsory — for anatomy, physiology, biochemistry)
  • Physics (Required by many schools including UNIBADAN, UI, ABU)
  • Mathematics (Required by some schools as fourth subject)

Grade Requirements

  • University of Ibadan (UI): Minimum B grade in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology at JUPEB
  • University of Lagos (UNILAG): Minimum C grade in Physics, Chemistry, Biology; may require Mathematics
  • Ahmadu Bello University (ABU): Minimum C grade in three science subjects
  • Delta State University (DELSU): Minimum C grade in Physics, Chemistry, Biology
  • Nigerian Teaching Hospital Medical Schools: Varying requirements; often require Distinction grades

O-Level Requirements

Candidates must also have:

  • 5 credits at O-Level including English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (at one sitting or combined)
  • Many schools require the 5 credits at one sitting
  • NABTEB and some private exam bodies are sometimes accepted

Dentistry Requirements

Dentistry has similar requirements to Medicine:

  • Biology and Chemistry are non-negotiable
  • Physics is strongly recommended
  • Manual dexterity is assessed in some schools through interviews

Strategic Advice for Medical Aspirants

  1. Prioritize Chemistry, Biology, and Physics: These three subjects open doors to virtually all medical schools
  2. Target A and B grades: Medical school slots are extremely competitive
  3. Consider the 6-year vs 5-year programme: Some schools have 6-year MBBS for JUPEB candidates vs 5-year for UTME candidates
  4. Apply to multiple schools: Different schools have different requirements and cut-offs

⚡ JUPEB Tip: University of Benin (UNIBEN) and University of Jos (UNIJOS) have historically lower cut-offs for medical school. Lagos State University (LASU) requires Chemistry, Physics, Biology and minimum C grades. Check each school’s POST-UME/DE screening requirements annually.