Path to the Stethoscope: Mastering the UNIPORT Medicine and Surgery Admission Requirements

Securing a spot in the College of Health Sciences at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) is widely considered one of the toughest academic challenges in Nigeria. As a top-tier “second-generation” federal university, UNIPORT has consistently ranked among the elite institutions in Africa, known for its rigorous training and clinical excellence. If you are eyeing a career in Medicine and Surgery here, simply having the passion isn’t enough you need to align perfectly with the university’s strict entry criteria.

The competition is fierce, but the roadmap is clear. From specific O’Level grades to the mandatory JAMB subject mix, here is exactly what you need to qualify for the 2026/2027 admission cycle.

1. The O’Level Foundation (SSCE)

Before you even sit for the entrance exam, your secondary school results must be impeccable. UNIPORT requires a minimum of five (5) credit passes in your Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (WAEC, NECO, or equivalent). Crucially, these must be obtained in a single sitting for most competitive medical slots and must include:

• English Language
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology

2. The Correct JAMB UTME Subject Mix

Many aspirants lose their admission before the exam starts by picking the wrong subjects. For Medicine and Surgery, there is no room for error. You must register for the following four subjects in your JAMB UTME:

1. Use of English (Compulsory)
2. Biology
3. Chemistry
4. Physics

3. The Cut-Off Mark Benchmark

While the official general cut-off mark for UNIPORT screening is often set at 150, don’t be misled. For a high-demand course like Medicine and Surgery, the departmental merit cut-off is significantly higher. You should aim for a score well above 250 to remain competitive during the Post-UTME screening process.

4. Direct Entry (DE) Conditions

If you are applying with advanced qualifications rather than just a secondary school certificate, you must meet the Direct Entry requirements. This pathway is open to those who have:

• Three ‘A’ Level passes in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Zoology.
• A first degree (B.Sc.) with high grades in a related science discipline.
• Note: You must still possess the five O’Level credits mentioned above.

5. Post-UTME Screening Participation

Meeting the JAMB score is only half the battle. You must participate in the UNIPORT Post-UTME screening exercise. Your final admission status will be determined by a weighted average of your JAMB score and your Post-UTME result. Consistency across both exams is the only way to guarantee a spot on the merit list.