JAMB Subject Combination for Surgery (2026 Update): Complete Guide for Aspiring Medical Students

Choosing the correct JAMB subject combination for Surgery is one of the most important steps for any student who wants to study Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria. Each year, thousands of candidates make mistakes during registration, leading to automatic disqualification even before the admission process begins. To avoid such issues, you must understand the approved UTME subjects, O’level requirements, Direct Entry criteria, and the best admission strategies.

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to successfully apply for Medicine and Surgery in any Nigerian university for the 2026/2027 academic session.

What Is the Correct JAMB Subject Combination for Surgery?

The official JAMB subject combination for Surgery (also known as Medicine and Surgery) includes:

1. Use of English (Compulsory for all courses)

2. Biology

3. Chemistry

4. Physics

This is the only approved combination. Any deviation from these subjects will automatically prevent you from being considered for admission into any medical program in Nigeria.

Why This Subject Combination Is Important

Medicine and Surgery is one of the most competitive courses in Nigeria. Universities use specific subject combinations to evaluate whether applicants have the required scientific foundation needed to succeed in medical school.

• Biology evaluates your understanding of human anatomy, cell biology, and physiology.

• Chemistry is essential for biochemistry, pharmaceuticals, and metabolic processes.

• Physics helps students understand medical instruments, radiography principles, and biomechanics.

• English ensures strong communication, writing, and comprehension skills—essential for clinical practice.

Using the right combination positions you as a qualified candidate right from the start.

O’Level (WAEC, NECO, GCE) Requirements for Surgery

To study Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria, you must have at least five (5) credit passes in the following compulsory subjects:

• English Language

• Mathematics

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Physics

These credits must be obtained in not more than two sittings, but note that:

• Most top universities prefer one sitting.

• Some universities accept two sittings, especially state universities.

Direct Entry Requirements for Surgery

If you are applying through Direct Entry (DE), the requirements include:

• A minimum of Upper Credit in relevant science-related diplomas.

• A-Level passes in Biology/Zoology, Chemistry, and Physics.

• Candidates with a B.Sc. degree (First Class or Second Class Upper) in related fields like Biochemistry, Physiology, or Anatomy have higher chances of being accepted.

However, even with Direct Entry, Medicine and Surgery remains extremely competitive.

JAMB Score Required for Medicine and Surgery

To gain admission into Medicine and Surgery, you should aim for:

• 270 – 350 in JAMB for federal universities

• 250 – 280 for state universities

• 240+ for private universities

Although some universities may accept lower scores, remember that meeting the cutoff doesn’t guarantee admission. You must also perform very well in Post-UTME.

Post-UTME Requirements

After passing JAMB, most universities require you to:

• Write a Post-UTME examination

• Upload your O’level results

• Participate in departmental screening

Post-UTME is usually based on:

• English

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Physics

Scoring high in Post-UTME significantly boosts your admission chances.

Top Nigerian Universities That Offer Surgery

Almost all medical schools in Nigeria offer Medicine and Surgery, but the most competitive and highly rated include:

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)

• University of Ibadan (UI)

• University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

• University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)

• Lagos State University (LASU)

• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

• University of Benin (UNIBEN)

• Bayero University Kano (BUK)

• University of Jos (UNIJOS)

Private universities include:

• Babcock University

• Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)

• Bowen University

• Igbinedion University

• Madonna University

How Competitive Is Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria?

Medicine and Surgery is considered the most competitive course in Nigerian universities. Why?

• High number of applicants

• Limited number of available spaces

• Strict admission requirements

To stand out, you must:

• Use the correct JAMB subject combination

• Score exceptionally high

• Meet O’level requirements

• Perform well in Post-UTME

• Prepare early

Tips to Prepare for JAMB to Study Surgery

Here are practical tips to help you achieve a competitive score:

1. Start Studying Early

The earlier you begin, the better your chances of mastering Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

2. Use Recommended Textbooks

Stick to JAMB-approved textbooks and past questions.

3. Practice Past Questions Regularly

Past questions help you understand exam patterns and manage your time effectively.

4. Focus on Speed and Accuracy

JAMB is time-limited; being fast and accurate is essential.

5. Attend Tutorials or Join Online Classes

This boosts understanding and helps you stay consistent in your study routine.

6. Create a Balanced Study Schedule

Allocate more time to difficult subjects and revise regularly.

Common Mistakes Students Make When Applying for Surgery

Many students jeopardize their chances due to avoidable mistakes such as:

• Choosing the wrong subject combination

• Scoring too low in JAMB

• Uploading incomplete O’level results

• Underestimating the Post-UTME exam

• Applying to highly competitive universities with a low score

• Not researching admission requirements

Avoiding these mistakes increases your admission success rate.

Best Universities for Medicine and Surgery Based on Facilities

Some universities have exceptional medical facilities, teaching hospitals, and laboratories. These include:

• University of Ibadan (UI)

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)

• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

• University of Nigeria (UNN)

• University of Benin (UNIBEN)

• Lagos State University (LASU)

If you want quality training, you should consider these schools.

Can I Study Surgery Without Physics in JAMB?

No.
Physics is compulsory in the JAMB subject combination for Medicine and Surgery. Without it, you cannot gain admission into any Nigerian university offering Surgery.

Can I Combine WAEC and NECO for Medicine and Surgery?

Yes, but only for universities that accept two sittings.
Check your chosen university’s admission policy before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the JAMB subject combination for Surgery?

English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

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

Typically 6 years, excluding internship and NYSC.

What JAMB score is safe for Medicine and Surgery?

Aim for 270 and above.

Which exam is harder, JAMB or Post-UTME?

Both are challenging, but Post-UTME determines final ranking.

Does every university offer Medicine and Surgery?

No. Only accredited universities offer it.

Read Also: JAMB Subject Combination for Medicine – 2026/2027

Studying Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria is highly rewarding but extremely competitive. With the correct JAMB subject combination, strong academic performance, and proper preparation, you can secure admission into top universities.

Make sure you:

• Select English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics in JAMB

• Achieve high scores in both JAMB and Post-UTME

• Meet all O’level requirements

• Apply strategically with your results