Do you aspire to become a nurse in Nigeria? Nursing is a highly respected and competitive course in Nigerian universities and colleges, and gaining admission can be challenging if you’re not aware of the requirements.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the complete admission requirements for Nursing in Nigeria for 2025, covering JAMB subject combinations, O’Level requirements, Direct Entry qualifications, and school-specific guidelines.
Is Nursing a Good Career in Nigeria?
Yes, Nursing is a professional course in high demand in Nigeria. Nurses can work in hospitals, clinics, schools, communities, and even overseas.
Earning a Nursing degree provides job security, career advancement, and many opportunities to work internationally.
However, due to its popularity, admission into Nursing programs is very competitive, making it essential to meet all the requirements.
General Admission Requirements for Nursing in Nigeria (2025)
To study Nursing in any Nigerian university, you must meet these basic requirements:
1. O’Level (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB)
You must have at least five (5) credit passes, including: English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
All these credits must be obtained in not more than two sittings.
2. JAMB UTME Requirements
To apply for Nursing through JAMB in 2025, you must:
a. Choose Nursing Science as your course
b. Select a university or college of nursing that offers the course
c. Write and pass the UTME exam.
JAMB Subject Combination for Nursing:
- English Language (compulsory)
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Also keep in mind scoring 200 and above in JAMB increases your admission chances of getting admitted to study Nursing in Nigeria.
Some top universities like UNILAG, UI, UNN, and OAU may require 250+.
3. Post UTME / Screening
After JAMB, your school may conduct a Post UTME exam or screening. The format differs across universities:
a. Some schools write exams. (Example: UNILAG, UI).
b. Others just screen your results online.
Just make sure you meet the school’s cut-off mark and follow their instructions.
4. Direct Entry Admission Requirements for Nursing in Nigeria
If you already have a diploma or A’Level qualification, you can apply for Direct Entry into Nursing (200 level).
Here’s what you need:
1. Acceptable Certificates:
2. Registered Nurse (RN) certificate
3. ND or HND in Health-related courses
4. A’Level / IJMB / JUPEB with passes in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
Other Direct Entry Requirements:
1. At least 5 O’level credits (as listed above)
2. Direct Entry form through JAMB
3. Meet the school’s specific DE requirements.
Top Schools that Offer Nursing in Nigeria.
Here are some of the best universities where you can apply to study Nursing in Nigeria:
1. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
2. University of Ibadan (UI)
3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
6. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
7. Lagos State University (LASU)
8. University of Benin (UNIBEN)
9. Babcock University (Private)
10. Afe Babalola University (Private), and lots more.
Note that each school has its own cut-off mark and Post UTME method, so visit their website for the latest updates.
College of Nursing Admission Requirements (Basic Nursing)
Apart from Universities, you can also study Nursing at Schools/Colleges of Nursing, under the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
Here their Basic Requirements:
a. 5 credits in English, Maths, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
b. Must be at least 17 years old.
c. Apply directly to the school (not through JAMB).
d. Write and pass their entrance exam and interview.
Popular schools of nursing include:
1. LUTH School of Nursing, Lagos
2. UCH School of Nursing, Ibadan
3. NAUTH School of Nursing, Nnewi
4. FMC School of Nursing, Owerri
After 3 years, successful students are awarded Registered Nurse (RN) certificates.
What is the JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing in 2025?
It’s different from one school to another, but most federal universities require at least 200. Competitive schools may demand a jamb cut-off mark of 240 or more.
Can I study Nursing without JAMB?
Yes, if you apply to a School of Nursing (not a university). They usually conduct their own entrance exams without JAMB.
Is Maths compulsory for Nursing?
Yes, Mathematics is required in O’level results, but not part of the JAMB subject combination.
How many years does it take to study Nursing?
a. University Nursing Degree (B.NSc): 5 years
b. Basic Nursing at Schools of Nursing: 3 years
c. Direct Entry B.NSc: 4 years
FAQs on Admission Requirements for Nursing in Nigeria 2025
Q1. What subjects do I need to pass for Nursing in WAEC/NECO?
You need credit passes in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
Q2. Is Nursing competitive in Nigeria?
Yes, very competitive. You’ll need high JAMB scores and good O’level results to stand a better chance.
Q3. Can art students study Nursing?
No. Nursing is a science-based course. Only science students with Biology, Chemistry, and Physics can apply.
Q4. What grade do I need in ND or RN to apply via Direct Entry?
You’ll need a minimum of Upper Credit or Merit for most universities, and a valid RN license if you’re a registered nurse.
Q5. Are there private universities that offer Nursing?
Yes. Examples of Private Universities that offer Nursing include: Babcock University, Afe Babalola University, Bowen University, Lead City University, and more
These schools may have slightly higher tuition but more flexible admission options.
In Summary
Great! Now that you’ve gone through the admission requirements for Nursing in Nigeria for 2025/2026, here’s what you need to do to apply:
a. Obtain at least 5 credits in your O’Level (English, Maths, Biology, Chemistry, Physics).
b. Score well in JAMB with the correct subject combination.
c. Prepare for Post-UTME or any school-specific screening.
d. Alternatively, apply through Direct Entry if you meet the necessary qualifications.
Be sure to check your preferred school’s admission process and stay updated on deadlines.
Nursing is a rewarding career, and with proper preparation, you can secure admission smoothly in Nigeria.
