Yes, you can study Medicine and Surgery in Nigerian universities using either the IJMB or JUPEB programme through Direct Entry admission into 200 level. Both routes are widely accepted alternatives to JAMB UTME for gaining admission into medical programmes.
However, Medicine and Surgery is one of the most competitive courses in the university system, so it requires excellent performance in either IJMB or JUPEB before admission can be secured.
IJMB / JUPEB Subject Requirements for Medicine
To qualify for Medicine and Surgery through either IJMB or JUPEB, you must register for core science subjects such as:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
These subjects are compulsory because they form the academic foundation required for medical studies.
Required Scores for Medicine and Surgery
Since Medicine is highly competitive, the required performance level is very high:
IJMB
- Usually requires 13 – 16 points
- Lower scores may not be considered for Medicine in most universities
JUPEB
- Requires strong grades, typically:
- A’s and B’s in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
- Most universities expect a high overall score (around A/B combination equivalent)
In both programmes, the higher your result, the better your chances of admission.
O’Level Requirements (Very Important)
Regardless of IJMB or JUPEB, candidates must also have:
- At least 5 credit passes in:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Obtained in not more than two sittings
Duration of Study
- IJMB: Approximately 9 months
- JUPEB: Approximately 9–12 months
After completion, successful candidates proceed to 200-level Direct Entry admission.
Universities That Accept IJMB / JUPEB for Medicine
Many Nigerian universities accept both IJMB and JUPEB for Medicine and Surgery, including:
- Bayero University Kano (BUK)
- University of Jos (UNIJOS)
- University of Calabar (UNICAL)
- University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
- University of Abuja (UNIABUJA)
- Several private universities across Nigeria
Admission is based on performance, competition, and departmental quota availability.
Important Notes
- Medicine and Surgery is extremely competitive in all universities.
- Only candidates with very strong results (high IJMB/JUPEB scores) are considered.
- Requirements may vary slightly between universities.
- Always confirm admission requirements from the official Direct Entry brochure of your chosen institution.
Final Verdict
Yes, you can study Medicine and Surgery through IJMB or JUPEB, but it is not an easy route. It requires serious academic performance, strong science grades, and a high overall score to secure admission into a medical programme in Nigeria.