For the 2025/2026 academic session, the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO) has set its general cut-off mark at 180 and above for all UTME candidates. If you scored 180 or higher, you’re eligible to apply for admission into any of the offered programs. But here’s the catch—competitive courses like Medicine, Nursing, and Medical Laboratory Science often require much higher scores, especially during internal departmental screening.
What Is FUHSO and Why Should You Care?
As someone deeply invested in Nigeria’s educational growth, I’ve seen how FUHSO quickly emerged as a game-changer in the medical and health sciences sector. Located in Otukpo, Benue State, FUHSO is Nigeria’s first Federal University solely dedicated to health sciences. That alone gives it a special place in the nation’s higher education ecosystem.
So, if you’re looking for a dedicated health institution with federal funding, modern facilities, and a laser focus on producing skilled health professionals, FUHSO is absolutely worth aiming for.
What’s the Official Cut-Off Mark for FUHSO 2025/2026?
180 and above. That’s the baseline.
However, from my experience working with education consultants and candidates who have applied in previous sessions, 180 is just the starting line. Courses like Medicine and Surgery or Nursing Science often see internal screening thresholds climb into the 200–250 range, depending on application volume.
Here’s how it typically plays out:
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180 – 199: Eligible for general programs like Anatomy, Physiology, or basic sciences.
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200 – 219: May qualify for Medical Laboratory Science or Radiography if competition is low.
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220 and above: Stronger chance for Medicine and Surgery, Nursing Science.
Why the Cut-Off Mark Isn’t Enough (And What to Do About It)
Let’s be clear: meeting the cut-off doesn’t guarantee admission. FUHSO follows a merit-based selection process that considers several factors:
1. JAMB Score Strength
You may have the cut-off mark, but how strong is your score compared to others applying for the same course?
2. Subject Combination
A poor UTME subject combo can disqualify you even if your score is high. FUHSO generally requires:
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Medicine/Nursing/Medical Lab: English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics
3. O’Level Results
Your SSCE (WAEC/NECO) should have at least 5 credits including English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
4. Post-UTME or Screening (if applicable)
While FUHSO may adopt screening over Post-UTME exams, this internal review is crucial. Your grades, UTME score, and sometimes even catchment areas all come into play.
Real Talk: My Honest Advice for Aspiring FUHSO Students
I’ve mentored students aiming for highly competitive universities, and here’s what I always emphasize for FUHSO hopefuls:
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Score beyond 200 to stand a real chance at top-tier courses.
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Get your documents ready early. Don’t wait for the eleventh hour to look for your O’level results or local government certificate.
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Don’t rely solely on UTME scores. FUHSO may introduce additional internal evaluation or screening.
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Prepare for relocation. Otukpo isn’t Lagos or Abuja—it’s a quieter town. Be mentally and logistically ready.
Courses Offered at FUHSO (2025/2026)
These are the major courses expected to be available during the 2025/2026 session:
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Medicine and Surgery
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Nursing Science
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Medical Laboratory Science
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Radiography
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Anatomy
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Physiology
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Biochemistry
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Microbiology
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Pharmacology
Each of these has different competitiveness, so aim higher than just the base cut-off mark.
Pros and Cons of Studying at FUHSO
Pros
✔ Federal Government funding and oversight
✔ Specialization in health sciences only
✔ Small, focused student population
✔ Modern curriculum tailored to national health needs
Cons
✘ Still developing in terms of infrastructure
✘ High competition for limited spaces
✘ Some facilities may still be under construction
Verified Details You Should Know
Application Portal:
https://www.fuhso.edu.ng
Email:
[email protected]
Phone:
+234 (placeholder – visit official site for updates)
Social Media:
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Campus Location:
Otada, Otukpo, Benue State, Nigeria.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the minimum JAMB score for FUHSO in 2025?
The minimum JAMB score is 180, but this doesn’t guarantee admission. Target a score above 200 for competitive courses.
Does FUHSO accept second choice candidates?
No, FUHSO typically does not accept second choice candidates. Always choose them as first choice in your UTME registration.
Will FUHSO conduct Post-UTME in 2025?
While the 2024 session used a screening process, FUHSO may introduce Post-UTME for some courses in 2025 depending on applicant volume.
Can I change my course after admission into FUHSO?
Yes, but only under strict academic conditions and availability. You must also meet the cut-off of the new course.
Is FUHSO accredited by NUC and medical councils?
Yes, FUHSO is fully accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and works in tandem with professional health bodies for course accreditations.
How competitive is FUHSO?
Very. The school’s specialized health focus means competition is stiffer than many traditional universities.
Final Words: Should You Apply to FUHSO?
Absolutely—if you’re serious about a career in health sciences. FUHSO offers a rare opportunity to learn in a focused environment with government backing. But remember, admission is not automatic even if you meet the cut-off mark.
Here’s my final tip: Treat FUHSO like your top university dream and not just a backup. Prepare early, score well, and stay alert for updates via their website or social media. The competition is real, but so is the reward.
Disclaimer: WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors such as pricing, hours, or location details. Please consult official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
