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Securing admission into highly sought-after courses like Medicine, Nursing, and other clinical programs in federal universities is a dream for many students.
However, a significant number of students face challenges in meeting the cut-off marks required for these courses.
In this article, drawing on my experience, I’ve highlighted the reasons behind this issue, while shedding light on the hurdles that students encounter during the admissions process.
1. Stiff competition and high cut-off marks
One of the main reasons students struggle to beat the cut-off marks is the stiff competition for limited slots in these programs.
The demand for these courses often surpasses the available capacity, resulting in higher cut-off marks that are difficult to achieve. As a result, many deserving candidates fall short despite their best efforts.
2. Inadequate preparation and misguided expectations
Lack of proper preparation and unrealistic expectations contribute to students’ inability to meet the required cut-off marks. Some students underestimate the level of academic rigor and dedication needed to excel in these courses. Insufficient preparation for the entrance examinations, such as the UTME, leaves them ill-prepared to achieve the desired scores, leading to disappointment.
3. Challenging academic requirements
Medicine, Nursing, and clinical courses demand a strong academic foundation. Students who do not perform well in subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics often struggle to meet the stringent academic requirements.
These courses require a comprehensive understanding of complex scientific concepts, making it difficult for students with weaker foundations in these subjects to excel.
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4. Limited availability of admissions slots
Federal universities have limited slots available for these highly competitive courses. Recently, News Round The Clock gathered that about 367,499 candidates applied for the 43,717 slots available in Medicine Departments in Nigerian universities for the 2022 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination conducted by JAMB.
Despite scoring very high in UTME, many students are still unable to secure admission due to the limited capacity of these programs. This further intensifies the competition and increases the challenges faced by prospective students.
5. Insufficient guidance and counseling
Inadequate guidance and counseling services can contribute to students’ failure to beat the cut-off marks. Many students lack proper information and guidance regarding the specific requirements and strategies to enhance their chances of admission.
Without access to accurate information and expert advice, they may make decisions that hinder their prospects.
In conclusion, meeting the cut-off marks for Medicine, Nursing, and other clinical courses in federal universities is a formidable challenge for many students. The intense competition, high cut-off marks, inadequate preparation, challenging academic requirements, limited availability of slots, and insufficient guidance all contribute to this issue.
Students must be aware of these challenges and take proactive steps to enhance their preparedness, seek proper guidance, and develop a strategic approach to increase their chances of success. With the right mindset and support, aspiring students can navigate these hurdles and pursue their dreams of studying in these esteemed programs.
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