JAMB Subject Combination for Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) 2026/2027– Complete Guide

Choosing the right JAMB subject combination for Medical Laboratory Science is one of the most important steps for any student who wants to study MLS in a Nigerian university. Every year, thousands of candidates lose admission not because they scored low in JAMB, but because they selected the wrong subjects.

This guide is designed to ensure you do not make that mistake. Here, you will find the official JAMB subject combination, WAEC requirements, direct entry qualifications, how universities admit MLS students, and additional tips to increase your chances of gaining admission.

Medical Laboratory Science, also known as Medical Laboratory Technology or Medical Laboratory Science (MLS), is a professional and in-demand health science course in Nigeria. Professionals in this field play a vital role in diagnosing and monitoring diseases through laboratory investigations. It’s a competitive but rewarding course with excellent career prospects in hospitals, diagnostic labs, public health sectors, and private medical institutions.

What is Medical Laboratory Science?

Medical Laboratory Science is the branch of health science that deals with clinical laboratory testing to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. MLS students are trained to analyze blood, tissues, and bodily fluids using sophisticated laboratory equipment. The program typically spans 5 years, including clinical training, practical sessions, and internships in accredited medical laboratories.

The demand for medical lab scientists continues to grow in Nigeria and globally due to the increasing need for accurate medical diagnosis and advancements in medical technology.

Is Medical Laboratory Science Competitive in Nigeria?

Yes. MLS is one of the most competitive health courses, just after Medicine & Surgery, Nursing, Dentistry, and Pharmacy. Many students apply for it yearly, and universities usually admit only a limited number.

This is why choosing the correct JAMB subjects and meeting the cut-off mark is extremely important.

Official JAMB Subject Combination for Medical Laboratory Science

Below is the approved JAMB subject combination for applicants seeking admission into Medical Laboratory Science (MLS):

1. Use of English (mandatory for all candidates)

2. Biology

3. Chemistry

4. Physics

This combination is the standard and only acceptable one for MLS across all universities in Nigeria.

These subjects reflect the scientific and analytical nature of the course. Chemistry and Biology play a major role because they cover essential foundational topics in medical science, while Physics helps students understand technical diagnostic procedures.

Choosing any other subject outside these will automatically disqualify your admission chances, no matter how high your JAMB score is.

Correct WAEC/NECO/O’Level Requirements for MLS

To study Medical Laboratory Science, you must have at least five (5) credits in the following subjects:

• English Language

• Mathematics

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Physics

These results must be obtained in not more than two sittings. However, most competitive universities prefer one sitting, especially federal institutions.

A deficiency in any of these subjects means you are not eligible for MLS until you correct it.

Direct Entry Requirements for Medical Laboratory Science (MLS)

If you are applying through Direct Entry (DE), here are the qualifications required by most Nigerian universities:

• A minimum of Upper Credit in relevant ND programs such as Science Laboratory Technology (SLT).

• A’Level passes in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

• NCE with good grades in science subjects.

• JUPEB or Cambridge A’Level certificates with acceptable points.

Direct entry students typically start from 200 Level, but in some universities, they may begin from 300 Level depending on the equivalency of their previous qualifications.

How Many Years is Medical Laboratory Science in Nigeria?

The standard duration for MLS in Nigerian universities is:

• 5 years for UTME candidates

• 4 years for DE candidates

The program includes:

• Basic science training

• Professional medical laboratory courses

• Clinical postings

• Industrial training

• Laboratory practical sessions

• Research project

Upon graduation, students are inducted by the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) and can begin their professional career.

Top Universities Offering Medical Laboratory Science in Nigeria

Many universities in Nigeria offer MLS, but some have stronger facilities, better laboratories, and higher accreditation statuses.

Here are some of the best institutions:

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)

• University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)

• University of Ibadan (UI)

• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

• University of Benin (UNIBEN)

• Bayero University Kano (BUK)

• University of Calabar (UNICAL)

• Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)

• University of Uyo (UNIUYO)

• Lagos State University (LASU)

• Ebonyi State University (EBSU)

• University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)

Each of these universities follows the same JAMB subject combination and O’Level requirements.

JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Medical Laboratory Science

The general JAMB cut-off mark for MLS varies by institution:

• Federal Universities: 200 – 250

• State Universities: 180 – 220

• Private Universities: 160 – 200

However, most competitive institutions set their internal departmental cut-off between:

• MLS Departmental Cut-off: 65% – 75% aggregate

This means scoring high in JAMB alone is not enough—you must also perform well in Post-UTME or screening.

Post-UTME Subjects for MLS

Most universities test students in the following:

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Physics

• Sometimes English (depending on the school)

If you already passed these subjects well in JAMB, prepare thoroughly to score even higher in post-UTME.

Why MLS is a Great Career Choice

Medical Laboratory Science is one of the most respected and rewarding careers in the health sector. MLS graduates enjoy:

• Strong job demand

• Career stability

• Attractive salaries

• Opportunities for specialization

• International job opportunities

• Ability to work in private or public sectors

MLS professionals contribute directly to saving lives through precise laboratory diagnosis.

Major Job Opportunities for MLS Graduates in Nigeria

After graduation, MLS professionals can work in:

• Government hospitals

• Private hospitals

• Diagnostic laboratories

• Research institutes

• Public health agencies

• NGOs and international health organizations

• Educational institutions

• Pharmaceutical companies

They can also start private diagnostic labs after gaining the required licenses.

How to Increase Your Chances of Gaining Admission for MLS

Because MLS is competitive, you need a smart strategy. Below are practical tips:

Score above 250 in JAMB

A high score gives you an advantage when the university is selecting students.

Get at least one-sitting O’Level results

This increases your eligibility and ranking during screening.

Choose universities wisely

Some universities have tougher competition than others.

Prepare very well for Post-UTME

Many students lose points at this stage. Aim for 70% and above.

Upload your O’Level early on JAMB CAPS

Failure to upload results can deny you admission even if you meet all requirements.

Choose the right subject combination

Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and English are the only acceptable subjects.

Common Mistakes Students Make When Applying for MLS

Many students are denied admission because of avoidable errors. These include:

• Choosing wrong JAMB subjects

• Low O’Level grades in science subjects

• Selecting highly competitive universities without a backup

• Ignoring post-UTME preparation

• Using two-sitting results in schools that prefer one sitting

• Not uploading O’Level results

Avoid these mistakes to improve your success rate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I study MLS without Physics?

No. Physics is compulsory in both WAEC and JAMB.

Is Mathematics required for MLS?

Yes. Mathematics is compulsory at the O’Level.

What is the JAMB subject for MLS?

English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics.

Can commercial or art students study MLS?

Only if they have required science subjects in WAEC/NECO.

Is Medical Laboratory Science the same as Microbiology?

No. MLS is a professional medical program with clinical training, while Microbiology is a pure science degree.

Read Also: JAMB Subject Combination for Computer Science (2026/2027 Complete Guide)

The correct JAMB subject combination for Medical Laboratory Science is:

• Use of English

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Physics

To gain admission into MLS, you must also meet the required WAEC grades, score high in JAMB/Post-UTME, and choose your university wisely. With the information provided in this guide, you now have everything you need to avoid common mistakes and position yourself for success in the 2026/2027 admission cycle.