In Nigeria, state universities offer this course with different cut‑off marks each year.
A cut‑off mark is the minimum score you need in your UTME (JAMB) result to be considered for admission.
After that, most schools also use POST‑UTME screening, O‑Level results, or catchment area scores.
What is the UTME cut‑off mark for Medical Laboratory Science at the University of Lagos (Unilag)?
The University of Lagos (a state university) uses a merit system and catchment quota.
For the 2024/2025 academic session, the merit cut‑off for Medical Laboratory Science was 74.675 percent (UTME only).
This means candidates with UTME scores of at least 74.68 made the merit list.
Note also that Unilag combines UTME (50 %), O‑Level results (20 %), and POST‑UTME scores (30 %) to select students .
Does Unilag give different cut‑off marks based on state of origin?
Yes. Unilag sets separate scores for merit and catchment areas (Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, etc.).
For example, catchment scores ranged from 73.125 in Oyo to 69.875 in Lagos.
However, for simplicity, students should aim for the merit mark of 74.675, which applies regardless of state of origin.
Do other state universities have Medical Laboratory Science and what are their cut‑offs?
Aside from Unilag, several state universities offer Medical Laboratory Science:
- University of Ilorin (Unilorin) offers the course in its Basic Medical Sciences faculty. Official cut‑off details weren’t available online. However, Unilorin typically uses a UTME minimum of 200–220 and a competitive POST‑UTME score.
- Western Delta University (private but state-affiliated) and Lead City University (private) offer Medical Laboratory Science. They require the usual UTME minimum (200–180) and five O‑Level credits. Precise cut‑off marks must be checked on their admission portals each year.
How can I find the exact cut‑off mark for other state universities?
To get correct numbers:
- Visit each university’s official admission portal.
- Download the latest PDF showing UTME and POST‑UTME cut‑offs.
- Note if they use merit or catchment systems.
- If not published, email the admission office or use the contact information on the school’s site.
Cut‑off marks often vary each year and by course, depending on the number of applicants and available seats.
What factors affect cut‑off marks for this course?
Cut‑off marks change because of:
- Number of applicants: More candidates push scores higher.
- Faculty quality: A more popular or well‑ranked faculty draws stronger candidates.
- Quota systems: Schools that allow catchment quotas may set lower cut‑offs for residents.
- Post‑UTME performance: Schools like Unilag include scores from their screening exams to adjust final admission decisions.
What minimum UTME score should I aim for?
For Unilag, aiming above 75% in UTME gives a good chance. For other state universities, aiming at least 200–250 in JAMB is safe.
This places you above the usual minimum and competitive in screening.
Combine this with strong O‑Level results and good POST‑UTME preparation.
What O‑Level subjects are needed for admission?
All state universities require at least five credits: English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
Make sure these are in a single sitting or use up to two sittings where the school allows.
What is the difference between merit and catchment admission?
Merit means ranking candidates solely by score order, regardless of where they come from.
Catchment gives a lower cut‑off mark for people from the state where the university is located. For instance, Unilag awarded marks like 69.875 for Lagos indigenes.
However, merit remains more competitive. Students from outside the state should aim for the merit mark.