Choosing the right institution to study Medical Laboratory Science is one of the biggest decisions for students who dream of working in hospitals, diagnostic centres, research labs, or public health facilities. Many students keep searching online for universities that offer medical laboratory and their school fees, hoping to find clear information that will guide their admission journey. This article gives you a full breakdown of what the course involves, the required cut-off mark, and a detailed list of private, state, federal, and polytechnic institutions that offer the programme, including their school fees.
It also helps you understand how to choose the right school based on fees, learning environment, and career goals. If you’re curious, excited, and ready to take the next big step into the health profession, this guide is written with you in mind.
What is Medical Laboratory?
Medical Laboratory Science is a health-based course that trains students to analyse blood, tissues, and body fluids to detect diseases. Professionals in this field—called Medical Laboratory Scientists—play a key role in diagnosis by providing accurate test results used by doctors to make decisions.
The course teaches:
- Haematology
- Microbiology
- Chemical pathology
- Immunology
- Anatomy and physiology
- Diagnostic techniques
Graduates work in hospitals, research institutes, public health labs, fertility clinics, and private diagnostic centres.
What Is School Fees?
School fees refer to the compulsory charges a student pays to study in a particular institution. It often includes:
- Tuition fee
- Registration
- Departmental dues
- Laboratory fees
- Medical charges
- ICT charges
Each institution sets its fees differently, depending on the facilities they offer. This is why many students compare universities that offer medical laboratory and their school fees before applying.
Cut-off Mark for Medical Laboratory
The cut-off mark for Medical Laboratory Science varies with each school. However, you should aim for:
- JAMB score: 180–250 (most federal universities require 220+)
- Departmental score: 50–70% in Post-UTME
- O’level requirement: 5 credits in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
Competitive institutions demand higher scores. If you want to stand a better chance, target above 230 in JAMB.
Private Universities that Offer Medical Laboratory and Their School Fees
Private institutions provide modern facilities, flexible calendars, and a stable academic environment. Here are major private universities that offer medical laboratory and their school fees:
| Private University | Estimated School Fees (Per Session) |
| Afe Babalola University | ₦1.4 million – ₦2.5 million |
| Babcock University | ₦800,000 – ₦1.5 million |
| Madonna University | ₦700,000 – ₦1.2 million |
| Bowen University | ₦650,000 – ₦1 million |
| Achievers University | ₦600,000 – ₦900,000 |
Private schools tend to be more expensive, but they provide stable calendars and stronger practical training.
Federal Universities that Offer Medical Laboratory and Their School Fees
Federal institutions are the most popular among students because of their affordability and recognition. Some include:
| Federal University | Estimated School Fees |
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | ₦90,000 – ₦150,000 |
| University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) | ₦80,000 – ₦120,000 |
| Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria) | ₦70,000 – ₦120,000 |
| University of Benin (UNIBEN) | ₦85,000 – ₦130,000 |
| University of Calabar (UNICAL) | ₦75,000 – ₦110,000 |
These are some of the most reliable universities that offer medical laboratory and their school fees, especially for students looking for cheaper tuition.
State Universities that Offer Medical Laboratory and Their School Fees
State universities also provide quality training but their fees depend on whether the student is an indigene or non-indigene.
| State University | Fees (Indigene & Non-Indigene) |
| Lagos State University (LASU) | ₦150,000 – ₦300,000 |
| Kaduna State University (KASU) | ₦120,000 – ₦200,000 |
| Imo State University (IMSU) | ₦100,000 – ₦180,000 |
| Ebonyi State University (EBSU) | ₦120,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Osun State University (UNIOSUN) | ₦150,000 – ₦250,000 |
State schools remain among the leading universities that offer medical laboratory and their school fees at a moderate rate.
Polytechnic Universities that Offer Medical Laboratory and Their School Fees
While most polytechnics do not offer full Medical Laboratory Science degrees, some offer related programs like Science Laboratory Technology (SLT) with medical options.
| Polytechnic | Estimated Fees |
| Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) | ₦50,000 – ₦100,000 |
| Federal Polytechnic Nekede | ₦45,000 – ₦90,000 |
| Kaduna Polytechnic | ₦40,000 – ₦80,000 |
| Federal Polytechnic Bida | ₦45,000 – ₦85,000 |
Students who cannot immediately enter full universities that offer medical laboratory and their school fees sometimes start with polytechnics as a foundation before moving to a university through direct entry.
Cheapest Universities that Offer Medical Laboratory
If affordability is your priority, here are the cheapest options:
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) – ₦70,000 – ₦120,000
- University of Calabar (UNICAL) – ₦75,000 – ₦110,000
- University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) – ₦80,000 – ₦120,000
- Kaduna State University – ₦120,000 – ₦200,000
- Federal Polytechnic SLT Options – ₦40,000 – ₦100,000
These are some of the most affordable universities that offer medical laboratory and their school fees, especially for students with budget limits.
How to Choose a University as a Medical Laboratory Student
Choosing from the many universities that offer medical laboratory and their school fees requires careful thinking. Consider these factors:
- Accreditation
Make sure the programme is fully accredited by the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN). - Laboratory Facilities
Good practical exposure gives you an advantage after graduation. - School Fees
Pick a school you can afford throughout your programme. - Location
Consider distance, cost of living, and safety. - Competition Level
Federal universities may require higher scores. - Career Goals
Choose institutions known for strong clinical exposure and research. - Academic Calendar Stability
Private universities are more stable, while others may have occasional interruptions.
With this guide, you can confidently compare and pick the right school.
FAQs About Studying Medical Laboratory Science
Is Medical Laboratory Science the same as SLT?
No. SLT is more general, while MLS trains you specifically for diagnostic and hospital-based laboratory work.
How many years is Medical Laboratory Science in Nigeria?
It takes 5 years, plus 1 year internship and NYSC.
Can I study Medical Laboratory Science without Physics?
No. Physics is compulsory in O’level for MLS.
Do universities accept direct entry for Medical Laboratory Science?
Yes. ND/HND holders in SLT or related fields may be accepted.
Which university is the best for Medical Laboratory Science in Nigeria?
UNN, ABU, UNILAG, UNIBEN, and UNICAL are among the top choices.
Are private universities better for Medical Laboratory Science?
They offer better facilities, but federal universities provide stronger clinical exposure at lower fees.
What subjects are required for JAMB?
Use of English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
This article has highlighted the full list of universities that offer medical laboratory and their school fees, including private, federal, state, and polytechnic options. For students trying to pick the best school, comparing school fees, facilities, and admission requirements is the smartest way to make a good decision. Whether you want a budget-friendly federal school or a stable private university, there are plenty of options available to help you achieve your dream of becoming a Medical Laboratory Scientist.