All state universities in nigiera
Admission to a Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) program via the Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB) is one of the most competitive Direct Entry (DE) routes in Nigeria. For the 2025/2026 academic session, universities have tightened their requirements, with some top-tier institutions no longer accepting IJMB for high-competition medical courses.
Below is the updated list and specific requirements for universities accepting IJMB for Pharmacy in 2026.
Top Universities Accepting IJMB for Pharmacy (2026)
While most Northern and many Federal universities remain open to IJMB candidates, there are significant updates for Southern “Ivy League” schools.
| University | Status (2025/2026) | Minimum IJMB Points Needed |
| Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) | Accepts | 10 – 12 Points |
| University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) | Accepts | 12 – 14 Points |
| University of Benin (UNIBEN) | Accepts | 12+ Points |
| University of Jos (UNIJOS) | Accepts | 11+ Points |
| University of Nigeria (UNN) | Accepts | 12 – 13 Points |
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | Closed for IJMB | Only accepts JUPEB or UNILAG Foundation |
| University of Ibadan (UI) | Closed for IJMB | Does not accept IJMB/JUPEB for DE |
University of Ilorin

University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
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IJMB Requirement: Minimum of 12 points in Chemistry, Biology, and Physics.
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O’Level: Must have 5 credits in ONE SITTING for Pharmacy.
University of Benin

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IJMB Requirement: UNIBEN typically requires at least 12 points.
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Constraints: They do not accept Mathematics as a substitute for Physics in Pharmacy.
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Degree Holders: Accepts B.Sc. (Second Class Upper) in related science fields.
University of Lagos (Closed for IJMB)

Only accepts JUPEB or UNILAG Foundation
University of Jos

- Direct Entry candidates must have five (5) ‘O’ Level credit passes in English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in addition to the ‘A’ Level requirements.
- UNIJOS accepts students with a B.Sc. second class or above in relevant programs.
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

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IJMB Requirement: Three ‘A’ level passes in Chemistry, Biology/Zoology/Botany, and Physics.
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O’Level: Must satisfy UTME requirements in no more than two sittings.
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Link: UNN Faculty of Pharmacy
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
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IJMB Requirement: At least 10 points in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
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Note: ABU is the primary moderator of IJMB, making it the “home” for IJMB candidates.
University of Benin (UNIBEN)
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IJMB Requirement: UNIBEN typically requires at least 12 points.
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Constraints: They do not accept Mathematics as a substitute for Physics in Pharmacy.
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Degree Holders: Accepts B.Sc. (Second Class Upper) in related science fields.
University of Lagos (UNILAG) – CRITICAL UPDATE
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Warning: As of the 2025/2026 session, UNILAG does not accept IJMB for Pharmacy. They strictly accept their own Foundation Program (JUPEB) or very high-grade B.Sc. degrees in related fields.
University of Ibadan (UI) – CRITICAL UPDATE
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Warning: UI does not accept IJMB or JUPEB for Direct Entry. Admission into Pharmacy at UI is almost exclusively through UTME or for candidates with a previous first degree from a recognized university.
How to Calculate Your IJMB Points
To see if you qualify for the 12–14 point threshold, use this scale:
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A = 5 Points
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B = 4 Points
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C = 3 Points
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D = 2 Points
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E = 1 Point
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F = 0 Points
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Bonus: 1 extra point is added if you have no “F” in your three subjects.
2026 Success Tips for Pharmacy DE
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JAMB DE Registration: Even with your IJMB result, you must register for JAMB Direct Entry and select your chosen school as the first choice.
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O’Level Single Sitting: Most top schools (UNILORIN, UNN, UNIBEN) now insist on one sitting for O’Level results when applying for Pharmacy.
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Verification: Ensure your IJMB result is verified and uploaded to the JAMB CAPS portal.
Top Private Universities for Pharmacy (5–9 IJMB Points)
If your IJMB score falls between 5 and 9 points, you may find it difficult to get into top federal universities for Pharmacy. However, several high-quality private universities in Nigeria offer a “Plan B” route. These institutions are often more flexible with points while still maintaining Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) accreditation.
Below is your “Plan B” list for the 2025/2026 session, including the estimated points and tuition expectations.
| University | Location | Estimated IJMB Points | 2025/2026 Tuition (Approx.) |
| Madonna University | Elele, Rivers | 7 – 9 Points | ₦2,500,000 – ₦2,800,000 |
| Igbinedion University | Okada, Edo | 6 – 8 Points | ₦3,000,000 – ₦3,500,000 |
| Lead City University | Ibadan, Oyo | 5 – 7 Points | ₦2,000,000 – ₦2,500,000 |
| Al-Hikmah University | Ilorin, Kwara | 5 – 8 Points | ₦1,500,000 – ₦2,000,000 |
| Bingham University | Karu, Nasarawa | 7 – 9 Points | ₦2,200,000 – ₦2,600,000 |
| Achievers University | Owo, Ondo | 5 – 7 Points | ₦1,800,000 – ₦2,200,000 |
Why These Schools Are Great “Plan B” Options
1. Madonna University (Elele)
Madonna is famous for its strict discipline and was one of the first private universities to offer Pharmacy in Nigeria. They are generally more interested in your O’Level foundations (Maths, English, Physics, Chemistry, Biology) than a high IJMB score.
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Pro Tip: They often require an oral interview for Direct Entry candidates.
2. Igbinedion University (Okada)
IUO has a very established College of Pharmacy. While their tuition is on the higher side, they have a “special consideration” policy for IJMB students who show strong potential in their O’Level results even if their ‘A’ Level points are mid-range (6–8).
3. Lead City & Al-Hikmah
These schools are excellent for students on a tighter budget compared to the “mega” private universities. They are known for faster processing of Direct Entry applications and often accept 5–7 points for Pharmacy, provided you have good grades in Chemistry and Biology.
💡 The “Secret” Strategy for Low Points
If you have 5 or 6 points, some of these universities may not admit you directly into 200 Level Pharmacy. Instead, they might offer you:
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Transfer Option: Admission into 100 Level (skipping JAMB UTME) so you don’t lose the year.
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Related Science Entry: Admission into Biochemistry or Microbiology with an option to transfer to Pharmacy in 200 Level if you maintain a high CGPA (usually 4.0/5.0).
🛠️ Important Check: PCN Accreditation
Before paying your acceptance fee at any “Plan B” school, always verify their current status on the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) Accredited Schools List. Accreditation can change, and you cannot be licensed as a pharmacist if your school loses its status.

