Optometry is a specialized field in the health sector that deals with eye care, vision testing, and correction. It combines medical science and clinical practice, making it both technical and practical. If you’re aiming to study Optometry during the 2026/2027 academic session, it’s important to understand the JAMB score you need, schools offering the course, and how to position yourself for admission.
What Is the JAMB Benchmark for Optometry 2026?
For the 2026 session, the lowest accepted JAMB score for Optometry is 160, which applies mostly to private or less competitive universities. However, if you’re aiming for a federal or state university with a strong health sciences faculty, you’ll need to score 200 to 250 or even higher.
Top universities like UNIBEN and IMSU often require scores close to 230 or above, especially when a large number of candidates apply.
General Requirements for Admission into Optometry
Optometry falls under the health sciences and comes with specific academic expectations. Here’s what you need to qualify:
- JAMB Score: Minimum of 160, but aim for 220 or above for top universities
- O’Level Subjects: At least five credit passes including:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- JAMB Subject Combination:
- Use of English (Compulsory)
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Most schools will also require you to pass their post-UTME screening or written exam.
Nigerian Universities Offering Optometry
Only a few universities in Nigeria offer Optometry as a full degree. These schools provide both clinical and theoretical training in visual health, and here are some of the notable ones:
- Imo State University, Owerri (IMSU)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU)
- Madonna University
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) – Offers related programs in Health Sciences
- Bingham University
These institutions usually run a five to six-year program that includes clinical training, especially for students in their final years.
Polytechnics Offering Optometry or Related Courses
At the polytechnic level, Optometry as a course is not commonly available. However, some polytechnics offer related programmes such as:
- Science Laboratory Technology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Health Technology
- Environmental Health Technology
Institutions that may run such related courses include:
- Federal Polytechnic, Nekede – SLT
- Auchi Polytechnic – Biomedical Engineering
- Kaduna Polytechnic – Health-related programmes
- Federal College of Health Technology, Owerri
These can serve as foundational programs if you plan to move into full Optometry through direct entry later.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the lowest JAMB score for Optometry?
A: 160, but only accepted by few private schools.
Q: Can I study Optometry without Physics?
A: No, Physics is a required subject.
Q: Is Optometry a medical course?
A: Yes, it’s part of the health sciences.
Q: Which university is best for Optometry in Nigeria?
A: IMSU, UNIBEN, and ABSU are among the best.
Q: Can I use Health Science instead of Biology?
A: No, Biology is specifically required.
Q: How many years is the Optometry program?
A: Usually, five to six years including clinical practice.
Q: Is post-UTME required for Optometry?
A: Yes, most schools conduct it.
Q: Do polytechnics offer Optometry?
A: Not directly, but they offer related courses like SLT.
Q: Can I apply for Optometry with a 170 score?
A: Yes, but only in institutions with lower competition.
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