Universities that offer Medical Laboratory Science and their cut off Mark 2025

Many students in Nigeria dream of studying Medical Laboratory Science (MLS), a key health profession that trains lab scientists to work in hospitals, research centers, and diagnostics. 

In this article, we list Nigerian universities that offer a Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (BMLS), explain their UTME cut‑off marks, and guide students on what to expect.

What is the UTME cut-off mark for Medical Laboratory Science at the University of Lagos?

The University of Lagos (UNILAG), one of Nigeria’s top universities, has set its UTME merit cut‑off at around 74.675 for Medical Laboratory Science in recent cycles. 

This means you generally need to score above 74.675 in UTME to be considered. In 2021, that same cut‑off applied. 

The figure may vary slightly from year to year, but aiming for at least 75 is safe. 

UNILAG splits admission into merit and catchment areas, but the broad figure for merit stays the same.

Do other universities use the same cut-off mark?

Each university sets its own cut‑off. For example, the University of Calabar (UNICAL) has a

Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, but published cut‑off marks are not yet available online.

Private schools like Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) offer MLS, but they typically follow JAMB’s minimum UTME mark (usually 180–200) and use their own internal scoring. 

Western Delta University also offers MLS, but exact cut‑off marks are not public.

Does the University of Calabar offer Medical Laboratory Science?

Yes. UNICAL has a Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, created in 2021. It is part of its Allied Medical Sciences group. 

This faculty runs a BMLS, not just as a program, but as a structured department with its own intake. 

While official cut‑off numbers are not published, they likely align with similar federal universities. Be ready to score in the mid‑70s if you apply.

Which private universities offer MLS in Nigeria?

Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) offers a BMLS degree through its College of Medicine and Health Sciences. ABUAD is known for smaller class sizes and stronger infrastructure. 

Western Delta University also runs a BMLS course, admitting via JAMB UTME or Direct Entry based on O’Level results. 

While they don’t publish cut‑off marks, candidates usually need UTME scores above 200.

What O’Level results do I need to study MLS?

Most universities require at least five O’Level credits in subjects including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. UNILAG lists this requirement in its 2024/2025 admission guide. 

Private schools usually follow the same rules. If you have credit in the five core science subjects, you are eligible academically.

How are cut-off marks decided each year?

Federal universities set cut‑off marks based on national JAMB data, departmental slot limits, and past admission trends. 

UNILAG, for example, adjusts its merit cut‑off (74.675 for MLS) after reviewing all UTME scores. 

Private universities decide based on infrastructure, quality control, and program demand. They often publish cut-offs when screening begins.

Can direct entry (DE) students study Medical Laboratory Science?

Yes. Both UNILAG and UNICAL allow Direct Entry students to enter into second‑year MLS programs if they have A‑Level, NCE, or ND qualifications in relevant science subjects. 

They must apply through JAMB DE and the university’s own DE form. DE applicants skip the UTME cutoff but must meet O’Level and merit DE standards.

How do I check the current year’s cut-off mark?

For UNILAG, go to the official admissions site under “Admission Cut‑Off Mark” or check in the UTME/PUTME portal. 

UNICAL and ABUAD publish theirs during JAMB screening season on their school websites.

Always check the university’s official portal or communications office for the latest number, usually 1–2 weeks after JAMB result release.