JAMB 2026: Top 9 most sought-after courses in Nigerian universities

As competition for university admission intensifies across Nigeria, some courses continue to attract thousands of candidates yearly because of their prestige, earning potential and global career opportunities.

Here are the nine most competitive courses for the 2026 admission cycle and the likely scores candidates may need to secure admission.

Medicine and Surgery
Medicine remains Nigeria’s most competitive course due to high demand and limited admission spaces. Most top universities are expected to require scores above 280 in UTME, alongside excellent post-UTME performance.

Law
Law continues to attract students interested in politics, advocacy and corporate careers. Competitive universities may require candidates to score 270 and above because of the large number of applicants yearly.

Pharmacy
Pharmacy has become increasingly attractive because of growing opportunities in healthcare and pharmaceuticals. Many universities are expected to set cut-off marks around 270.

Read also: JAMB to begin printing 2026 UTME result slips May 18

Nursing Science
The rising global demand for healthcare professionals has pushed Nursing Science higher on students’ preference lists. Competitive institutions may require scores above 260.

Computer Science
With technology and artificial intelligence reshaping industries, Computer Science is now one of the fastest-growing courses in Nigeria. Strong competition is expected, especially in federal universities, with cut-off marks around 250 and above.

Accounting
Accounting remains a favourite among commercial students because of opportunities in banking, consulting and finance. Many universities are expected to maintain high cut-off marks due to sustained interest in the profession.

Economics
Economics continues to attract students interested in business, policy and finance careers. Demand for the course remains high in top universities, especially among candidates aiming for careers in banking and economic analysis.

Mass Communication
Mass Communication remains one of the most competitive courses in Nigeria because of growing interest in media, public relations, digital marketing, broadcasting and content creation. The rise of digital media and social platforms has also increased demand for communication-related careers, especially among young Nigerians.

Engineering
Engineering, especially Mechanical, Petroleum, Civil, Electrical and Computer Engineering, continues to attract a high number of applicants yearly due to opportunities in infrastructure, energy, manufacturing and technology sectors. Competitive universities often require high UTME scores for engineering programmes because of limited admission slots and strong demand.