The Minimum Requirements For Nursing School In Nigeria

Nursing is a highly respected and essential career in Nigeria, and nursing schools across the country provide different programs for aspiring nurses.

These programs, ranging from basic nursing to advanced specialties, offer comprehensive training in clinical skills, patient care, and healthcare ethics.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the minimum requirements for nursing school admission, a list of institutions offering nursing programs, cut-off marks, tuition fees, application timelines, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Overview of Nursing School Admission Requirements in Nigeria

To be admitted to a nursing school in Nigeria, candidates must meet certain academic, age, and health-related standards. Admission requirements are consistent across most nursing schools, with the following being the basic criteria:

1. Academic Qualifications: Candidates must possess at least five credits in core subjects, including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, in either WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB, with results obtained within two sittings.
2. Age Requirement: The minimum age for nursing school applicants is typically 16, though some schools set this at 18.
3. Entrance Examinations: Candidates are required to sit for an entrance examination that covers science-related subjects, after which successful candidates proceed to an oral interview.
4. Medical Screening: Applicants should be in good health, and pregnancy is not permitted for female candidates at the time of application and admission​

Top Nursing Schools in Nigeria and Cut-Off Marks

Nigeria boasts numerous nursing institutions, each with specific admission quotas and requirements. Below is a list of reputable nursing schools across different states:

1. School of Nursing, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan – Oyo State
2. School of Nursing, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) – Lagos State
3. School of Nursing, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH) – Kaduna State
4. School of Nursing, Joint Hospital, Mbano – Imo State
5. School of Basic Midwifery, Umulogho – Imo State
6. School of Nursing, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC) – Osun State​.

Each institution sets its own cut-off mark, generally around 150 to 200, depending on the school and the level of competition. Some programs may also consider JAMB scores for applicants interested in the Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSC) program, which generally requires higher scores.

Nursing School Fees in Nigeria

Tuition fees for nursing schools vary significantly based on the institution and its location. Here are some estimates:

• Federal Institutions: Nursing schools in federal institutions, such as LUTH or UCH, typically have more affordable fees, averaging between ₦100,000 and ₦250,000 per year.
• State Institutions: Nursing schools under state government often charge between ₦150,000 and ₦300,000 per year.
• Private Nursing Schools: Fees for private institutions are generally higher, ranging from ₦250,000 to ₦600,000 per year, with some specialized programs costing more​

Requirements for Application

To successfully apply, you must follow these steps:

1. Complete the Online Application: Visit the nursing school’s website, download the application form, and pay the required application fee, usually around ₦10,000.
2. Prepare Required Documents: This includes academic transcripts, identification (birth certificate or national ID), and certificates for your O’Level results.
3. Sit for Entrance Exams: After submission, applicants must take an entrance examination, followed by an interview for those who pass.
4. Submit Health Clearance: Most schools require a medical checkup as part of the final documentation process​

Application Opening and Closing Dates

Application dates for nursing schools vary, with the majority opening admissions in May or June and closing in August or September. Specific timelines differ between schools, so it’s essential to regularly check each institution’s website or reach out to the admissions office.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I apply with awaiting results? Yes, some institutions accept applicants with pending results, provided the results are available by the time admission is finalized.
2. Is JAMB required for nursing schools? For diploma programs, JAMB is generally not required. However, Bachelor’s programs in Nursing Sciences (BNSC) require JAMB, and candidates must meet the school’s specific cut-off.
3. What happens if I don’t meet the cut-off mark? If you don’t meet the cut-off mark, some schools may still consider your application based on other academic merits or interview performance, although this is not guaranteed.
4. Are there scholarships available? Yes, several institutions offer scholarships to nursing students based on academic performance, and government grants may also be available.
5. Is the application fee refundable? No, application fees are generally non-refundable, so ensure you’re prepared before beginning the application process.
6. How competitive is admission to nursing schools in Nigeria? Admission is highly competitive due to limited slots and high demand. Preparing thoroughly for entrance exams and interviews is crucial​

Nursing school in Nigeria opens doors to a rewarding career in healthcare, and understanding the requirements can help you get started on the right path. Whether you aim to work locally or internationally, Nigeria’s nursing schools provide a strong foundation to build your career.