If you wish to study nursing in Africa without spending too much, you’re not alone. Many students dream of becoming nurses, but the high cost of nursing education in some countries can make that goal seem out of reach.
The good news is that there are affordable, accredited nursing schools in Africa where you can get quality training without paying a fortune.
In this detailed guide, I’ll show you:
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The cheapest nursing schools in Africa
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Affordable accredited nursing programs
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Tuition fees
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Admission requirements
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Program duration
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Why these schools are so budget-friendly
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How international students can apply
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Tips for finding accredited low-cost nursing programs
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Scholarships available for nursing students in Africa
Let’s dive in and explore everything you need to know.
Why Nursing Schools in Africa Are Cheaper
Before we dive into the list of the cheapest nursing schools in Africa, let’s understand why nursing education there is relatively affordable.
Nursing programs in Africa usually cost less than in Europe or North America for several reasons:
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Government subsidies help lower tuition fees.
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Lower cost of living makes housing, food, and transport more affordable.
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Community-run teaching hospitals reduce laboratory and clinical expenses.
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Smaller administrative costs compared to Western schools.
These factors make Africa an ideal choice for both local and international students who want quality nursing training at a reasonable price.
Cheapest Nursing School in Africa – Top Choice
After comparing tuition fees, training quality, accreditation status, and affordability across different countries, below are the cheapest nursing schools in Africa that consistently stand out:
1. School of Nursing, Kampala International University – Uganda
Average Tuition Fee: $750 – $1,100 per year
Program Duration: 3 years
Accreditation: Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council (UNMC)
Location: Kampala, Uganda
Why KIU School of Nursing Is Considered the Cheapest in Africa
- Low tuition compared to private universities.
- Well-equipped teaching hospital for clinical practice.
- Internationally recognized nursing qualifications.
- High acceptance rate and affordable accommodation.
- Friendly environment for foreign students.
Requirements for Admission
- O-level or equivalent (5 credits including Biology & English)
- Passport photograph
- Birth certificate
- Application form
- Medical fitness report
What Makes It Stand Out
Students love KIU because it offers theory and strong hands-on clinical training, which is essential for a nursing career.
For a nursing school that charges less than $1,100 per year, the value is unmatched compared to other universities out there.
2. Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) – Tanzania
Average Tuition Fee: $1,000 – $1,500 per year
Program Duration: 3–4 years
Accreditation: Tanzania Nursing and Midwifery Council
Why MUHAS Is a Top Option
MUHAS is one of the cheapest nursing schools in Africa because it’s known for producing some of the finest nurses in East Africa.
Additionally, it offers low tuition while maintaining world-class teaching standards and practical exposure in top hospitals.
Program Benefits
- Modern labs
- Experienced lecturers
- High employability after graduation
- Scholarships available for outstanding students
3. University of Zambia, School of Nursing Sciences – Zambia
Average Tuition Fee: $1,200 – $1,800 per year
Program Duration: 4 years
Accreditation: General Nursing Council of Zambia
Highlights
- One of the most respected nursing schools in Southern Africa.
- Affordable tuition despite a high academic reputation.
- Excellent facilities for clinical and theoretical training.
4. Addis Ababa University, School of Nursing – Ethiopia
Average Tuition Fee: $700 – $1,200 per year
Program Duration: 4 years
Accreditation: Ethiopian Nursing Association
Why It’s Affordable
Addis Ababa University offers government-subsidized nursing programs that make it one of the lowest-cost nursing schools in Africa for local and foreign students.
5. Ahmadu Bello University School of Nursing – Nigeria
Average Tuition Fee: ₦150,000 – ₦250,000 per year (~$120 – $200)
Program Duration: 3 years
Accreditation: Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN)
Why It’s Among the Cheapest Nursing Schools in Africa
ABU Zaria is known for extremely low tuition fees, especially for Nigerians.
Even international students enjoy friendly rates, making it one of the cheapest accredited nursing schools in West Africa.
Other Affordable Nursing Schools in Africa
Here are more of the cheapest nursing schools in Africa worth considering:
- Gulu School of Nursing, Uganda: $600–$900 yearly
- University of Ibadan School of Nursing, Nigeria: $150–$300 yearly
- University of Ghana School of Nursing: $1,500–$2,500 yearly
- Mbarara University of Science & Technology (MUST), Uganda: $800–$1,200 yearly
- Makerere University School of Nursing, Uganda: $1,000–$1,300 yearly
These schools are known for affordability, standard training, and recognized certificates.
General Requirements to Study Nursing in Africa
Although requirements differ slightly by school, here are the common ones:
- High school certificate (with credits in Biology, Chemistry, Physics & English)
- Birth certificate
- Identification (national ID or passport)
- Medical fitness report
- Passport photographs
- Completed application form
- Application fee
Note that some institutions also require an entrance exam or interview.
How to Study Nursing in Africa at the Lowest Cost
Here are proven strategies to reduce your expenses to enjoy the cheapest nursing schools in Africa to the fullest:
Apply to government-owned nursing schools
They are heavily subsidized and can be 70% cheaper than private ones.
Choose a country with a lower cost of living
Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Zambia offer cheap accommodation and food.
Apply for available scholarships
Many governments offer bursaries for nursing students.
Examples include ICT fees, acceptance fees, medical fees, lab fees, etc.
Consider diploma programs
Diploma nursing programs are shorter and cheaper while still accredited.
Is It Worth Studying Nursing in Africa?
Here’s why studying at the cheapest nursing schools in Africa is worth it:
- Africa has some of the cheapest nursing tuition fees globally.
- There is a high demand for trained nurses within Africa and abroad.
- Many schools have international recognition.
- Opportunities for migration pathways (Canada, UK, Ireland, UAE, etc.).
- Strong clinical exposure from day one.
Nursing graduates from Africa are widely accepted in global healthcare systems, especially when additional licensing exams like NCLEX, IELTS, or CBT are completed.
Can International Students Apply to Nursing Schools in Africa?
Ye, Africa welcomes thousands of international students yearly because:
- Tuition is cheaper
- Visa processes are simple
- Living expenses are low
- Degrees are globally recognized
Countries like Uganda, Tanzania, Ghana, Nigeria, and Zambia have dedicated international student offices.
Is Nursing Hard to Study?
Nursing requires dedication, compassion, and good study habits.
You’ll deal with:
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Clinical rotations
- Long study hours
But the career benefits are completely worth it.
Final Words
If you’re searching for the cheapest nursing schools in Africa, there are many excellent and affordable options across Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Zambia, and Nigeria.
Schools like Kampala International University and Ahmadu Bello University are extremely cheap while still offering accredited, globally respected nursing programs.
Overall, studying nursing in Africa gives you a solid foundation, hands-on clinical experience, and internationally recognized qualifications, all at the lowest cost.
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