As Nigerian students continue to compete for limited admission slots in tertiary institutions, certain courses have emerged as the most competitive, driven by high demand, job prospects, and social prestige.
Below, EduTimes Africa breaks down the seven top courses with the highest UTME cut-off marks in 2025, including the required subjects for O’Level.
1. Medicine and Surgery
Cut-off Mark: 280+
Why it’s competitive: It’s the dream course of many students due to the prestige of becoming a doctor and the limited slots available in medical schools.
O’Level Requirements:
English Language
Mathematics
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
2. Law
Cut-off Mark: 270+
Why it’s competitive: Law offers prestige, career diversity, and opportunities in politics, judiciary, and advocacy.
O’Level Requirements:
English Language
Literature-in-English
Government or Civic Education
Mathematics
Any other relevant subject
3. Pharmacy
Cut-off Mark: 270+
Why it’s competitive: Pharmacy offers strong job security and opportunities in healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry.
O’Level Requirements:
English Language
Mathematics
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
4. Nursing Science
Cut-off Mark: 260+
Why it’s competitive: Nursing is globally recognized and offers stable and flexible career opportunities.
O’Level Requirements:
English Language
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Mathematics
5. Accounting
Cut-off Mark: 250+
Why it’s competitive: With the rise of financial firms and the demand for certified professionals (like ICAN holders), Accounting remains a top choice.
O’Level Requirements:
English Language
Mathematics
Economics
Financial Accounting
Any other subject
6. Computer Science
Cut-off Mark: 250+
Why it’s competitive: As tech drives global development, students are increasingly turning to Computer Science for careers in programming, cybersecurity, and AI.
O’Level Requirements:
English Language
Mathematics
Physics
Computer Studies
Any other subject
7. Economics
Cut-off Mark: 250+
Why it’s competitive: Economics provides a foundation for careers in banking, policy, research, and development sectors.
O’Level Requirements:
English Language
Mathematics
Economics
Government or Commerce
Any other subject
Admission Insight:
If you’re aiming for any of these top courses, prepare early, aim for scores well above the general cut-off, and ensure your subject combinations match university requirements. Remember, a high UTME score is just one part of the admission puzzle—your O’Level results must also be solid.
Stay updated with more admission tips and trends at EduTimes Africa.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.
