Getting into a health program at the university level is highly competitive. Thousands of applicants vie for limited spots each year. To have the best chance of admission, students must meet strict cut off grade requirements. This article provides the most up-to-date information on 2024 university admission cut off grades and requirements specifically for health programs.
An Overview of University Admission Cut Off Grades
University admission cut off grades refer to the minimum aggregate score students must achieve to gain admission into their program of choice. Each university sets its own cut off grade thresholds annually. Cut offs vary not only by school but also by program.
For students taking the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), their aggregate score is determined by converting their grades into a numerical system and summing them across six subjects – three core subjects (English, mathematics, integrated science/social studies) and three elective subjects.The table below shows the grade conversion system for WASSCE :
| Grade | Marks |
|---|---|
| A1 | 1 |
| B2 | 2 |
| B3 | 3 |
| C4 | 4 |
| C5 | 5 |
| C6 | 6 |
| D7 | 7 |
| E8 | 8 |
| F9 | 9 |
For instance, if a student received the following WASSCE grades:
- English: B3
- Mathematics: C4
- Integrated Science: B2
- Elective 1: A1
- Elective 2: B3
- Elective 3: C5
Their aggregate score would be calculated as:
- English (B3): 3
- Mathematics (C4): 4
- Integrated Science (B2): 2
- Elective 1 (A1): 1
- Elective 2 (B3): 3
- Elective 3 (C5): 5
- Total: 18
The student would then compare their aggregate score of 18 to the cut off grade for their desired university program to determine eligibility.With this context in mind, let’s now specifically discuss 2024 university admission cut off grades for competitive health programs across Ghana.
2024 University Admission Cut Off Grades for Nursing Programs
Nursing programs are some of the most popular health programs for aspiring university students in Ghana. However, competition is fierce. Here are the 2024 nursing program cut off grades for top universities:
University of Ghana (UG)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Aggregate Cut Off Point:
- 8/12 – Non Science background
- 12 – Science background
- Aggregate Cut Off Point:
- Bachelor of Science in Midwifery
- Aggregate Cut Off Point:
- 8/12 – Non Science background
- 12 – Science background
- Aggregate Cut Off Point:
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Aggregate Cut Off Point: 12
- Bachelor of Science in Midwifery
- Aggregate Cut Off Point: 12
University of Cape Coast (UCC)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Aggregate Cut Off Point:
- Non-Science students: 10
- Science students: 14
- Aggregate Cut Off Point:
- Bachelor of Science in Midwifery
- Aggregate Cut Off Point:
- Non-Science students: 10
- Science students: 14
- Aggregate Cut Off Point:
University for Development Studies (UDS)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Aggregate Cut Off Point:
- Science Students:
- Male: 9
- Female: 10
- Non-Science Students:
- Male: 7
- Female: 8
- Science Students:
- Aggregate Cut Off Point:
- Bachelor of Science in Midwifery
- Aggregate Cut Off Point:
- Science Students:
- Male: 9
- Female: 10
- Non-Science Students:
- Male: 7
- Female: 8
- Science Students:
- Aggregate Cut Off Point:
As shown above, nursing and midwifery programs often share the same or very similar cut off grade requirements. Students interested in these programs should target an aggregate exam score between 8-14 depending on the university and whether they have a science or non-science background.
2024 University Admission Cut Off Grades for Medical Programs
Programs like medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and physician assistants have some of the most competitive cut offs in Ghana. Here’s an overview of 2024 cut off grades for key medical programs:
University of Ghana (UG)
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery: Aggregate Cut Off Point – 7 (first choice), 8 (second choice)
- Doctor of Pharmacy: Aggregate Cut Off Point – 8 (first choice and second choice)
- Bachelor of Dental Surgery: Aggregate Cut Off Point – 9 (first and second choice)
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery: Aggregate Cut Off Point – 6
- Doctor of Pharmacy: Aggregate Cut Off Point – 6
- Doctor of Dental Surgery: Aggregate Cut Off Point – 7
University of Cape Coast (UCC)
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery: Aggregate Cut Off Point – 8
- Doctor of Pharmacy: Aggregate Cut Off Point – 8
University for Development Studies (UDS)
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery: Aggregate Cut Off Point – 9
- Doctor of Pharmacy: Aggregate Cut Off Point – 12
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Fee Paying): Aggregate Cut Off Point – 18
For the most competitive medical programs like medicine, pharmacy, and dentistry, students will need aggregate exam scores generally between 6-9 to meet university cut off requirements. Grades in math and science subjects will also be scrutinized more heavily.
Additional Requirements Beyond Cut Off Grades
While meeting the cut off grade is essential, it does not guarantee admission alone. Universities also consider:
- Exam Subject Requirements: Most programs specify required subjects that students must pass at a minimum grade level. For science and math-based programs like medicine and engineering, applicants may need a minimum of C6 in subjects like chemistry, physics, biology, elective math, etc.
- CASPer Test: Some medical schools like KNUST require applicants to complete the Computer-Based Assessment for Sampling Personal Characteristics test (CASPer) to assess personal and professional characteristics like empathy, communication skills, and ethics.
- Interviews: Students who meet cut off marks and other eligibility criteria are invited for an interview. The interview allows universities to further assess students’ interpersonal skills, teamwork ability, critical thinking, enthusiasm for the program, and fit.
When applying to competitive health programs, students should thoroughly research requirements beyond cut off grades and prepare application materials accordingly.
Tips for Students to Meet University Health Program Cut Off Requirements
Here is some advice for aspiring university students hoping to meet health program cut off requirements:
- Start preparation early: Students should begin studying for exams like WASSCE by SSS2 to give ample time to master course material. Beginning early and studying consistently is key to achieving top grades.
- Get extra help in science subjects: Science, math, and English are vital subjects for meeting aggregate cut off score requirements. Students who struggle in these areas should pursue tutoring or extra classes to strengthen skills.
- Know the cut off grades and requirements: Research competitive cut off grades and subject requirements for your desired institutions and programs well in advance. This allows time to adjust your study strategy if needed.
- Take the program seriously: Admission to health programs is extremely selective. Students must be fully committed to their academics and exam preparation to achieve the high cut off marks.
- Have realistic expectations: Have backup university and program options in case you miss the cut offs for your top-choice program. Still pursue health-related fields that interest you.
With diligent preparation, realistic expectations, and an understanding of university health program cut off grades, students can put themselves in a strong position for admission.
An Overview of Fee-Paying Programs and Cut Off Grades
Some universities offer fee-paying programs where students pay full tuition costs rather than receiving government subsidy. Fee-paying programs often have higher cut off grade requirements.
Here are some other health program fee-paying cut off grades for 2024:
University for Development Studies (UDS)
- Doctor of Pharmacy: Aggregate Cut Off Point – 18
University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Fee-Paying): Aggregate Cut Off Point – 15
- Bachelor of Science Midwifery (Fee-Paying): Aggregate Cut Off Point – 15
The benefit of fee-paying programs is that they reserve spots for students who can afford full fees but fall slightly below competitive cut offs. The disadvantage is the higher financial burden. Students should carefully weigh pros and cons when considering applying.
How Universities Calculate and Determine Cut Off Points
Wondering how universities determine cut off grades each year? Here is an inside look at the process:
Finally, universities analyze any changes in national exam difficulty and student performance when setting cut off marks. If a particular year’s exam proves more challenging, they may slightly drop cut offs and vice versa.In the end, cut off grades are a quantitative way for universities to filter applicants and select candidates most likely to succeed. They reflect both academic preparedness and the level of competition universities face.
Tips for Writing Strong University Health Program Applications
Beyond achieving the required cut off aggregate exam score, students need to craft exceptional application documents to stand out from the crowd.
Follow these tips when preparing your university health program application:
1. Start early
Begin drafting key pieces of your application like your personal statement and CV a year in advance. This provides ample time for multiple draft revisions. It also allows time to gather any supplemental application requirements.
2. Understand selection criteria
Research the student selection process and criteria for your target programs. Tailor your application documents to align directly with qualities and skills programs seek in candidates.
3. Highlight relevant experience
Include plenty of details on health-related volunteering, clubs, research, job roles, and shadowing. This shows genuine commitment to your chosen field.
4. Showcase leadership skills
Admissions committees look for leadership potential. Discuss any team captain, club executive, manager or mentor roles you have held.
5. Get feedback
Have teachers, mentors, and even university students in your desired program review your full application. Implement the constructive feedback you receive. Following these five application tips will help you craft an outstanding application capable of catching a university’s eye despite intense competition.
Future Outlook for Health Program Cut Off Grades
With demand growing for healthcare workers, all signs point to health program cut off grades continuing to rise in coming years.For example, between 2017 and 2022, the University of Ghana Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery program saw its cut off aggregate score increase from 6 to 7 for standard applicants and 7 to 8 for fee-paying applicants.
Also Read
- Nursing School Entry Requirements in 2024: Everything You Need to Know to Get Accepted: This article covers the key details on grades, test scores, prerequisites, essays, volunteer work, and more that schools evaluate for nursing school admission.
- When Will 2024 Nursing School Applications Open? Tips to Get Ready: This article provides advice on how to prepare and submit your nursing school application as early as possible, and what requirements you need to meet.
- Becoming a Registered Nurse in New York: This article outlines the steps and requirements to obtain licensure as a registered nurse in New York state, including education, exams, and application process.
