Nursing Cut-Off Mark for 2026/2027: JAMB Score Required for Admission into Universities and Colleges

Nursing Cut-Off Mark for 2026/2027: JAMB Score Required for Admission into Universities and Colleges

Nursing remains one of the most sought-after courses in Nigeria, attracting thousands of candidates every year. The profession offers excellent career opportunities, job security, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in healthcare.

However, gaining admission to study Nursing is not as simple as meeting the minimum JAMB requirement. Due to the high number of applicants and limited admission slots, Nursing is considered one of the most competitive courses in Nigerian universities.

Many candidates make the mistake of focusing only on the general JAMB cut-off mark while ignoring departmental requirements, Post-UTME performance, and O’Level qualifications. Unfortunately, this often leads to disappointment during the admission process.

If you’re planning to study Nursing in the 2026/2027 academic session, this guide explains everything you need to know, including the expected JAMB cut-off mark, subject combination, O’Level requirements, admission tips, and the scores you should realistically target to improve your chances of gaining admission.

Why Nursing Is One of the Most Competitive Courses in Nigeria

The demand for Nursing education has increased significantly in recent years.

Several factors contribute to this growing interest:

Increased demand for healthcare professionals
Better employment opportunities after graduation
Opportunities to work abroad
Attractive salary prospects
High respect for the profession

As a result, universities receive thousands of applications for Nursing every admission cycle. In some institutions, only a small percentage of applicants are eventually offered admission.

This is why scoring the minimum JAMB requirement is often not enough.

What Score Should You Target for Nursing in 2026/2027?

Many candidates ask:

Can I study Nursing with 180?

Is 200 enough for Nursing?

What score guarantees admission?

While there is no guaranteed score, the following guide can help.

280 and Above

Excellent score.

You stand a strong chance in highly competitive institutions such as:

University of Ibadan (UI)
University of Lagos (UNILAG)
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
University of Benin (UNIBEN)

250–279

Very competitive score.

You have a realistic chance in most federal and state universities, provided your O’Level results and Post-UTME performance are strong.

220–249

Good score.

You may qualify for many state universities and some federal universities depending on the year’s competition.

200–219

Moderate chance.

Admission is possible, but competition becomes tougher.

Below 200

You should consider:

Colleges of Nursing
Nursing schools attached to teaching hospitals
Some private universities offering Nursing

Absolutely. Here’s a completely rewritten version that preserves the information while sounding original, professional, and SEO-friendly.

Federal Universities Offering Nursing Science in Nigeria

Federal universities remain the preferred destination for many Nursing applicants because they combine academic excellence, recognized qualifications, affordable tuition, and access to teaching hospitals for clinical training.

Admission into Nursing Science at federal universities is highly competitive, with thousands of applicants competing for a limited number of spaces every year. As a result, candidates are generally expected to score well above the minimum JAMB requirement to stand a realistic chance of admission.

The table below provides an overview of some federal universities offering Nursing Science, including their typical admission score range, estimated tuition costs, and level of competitiveness.

Federal University	Expected JAMB Score Range	Estimated Annual School Fees	Admission Competitiveness
University of Lagos (UNILAG)	260–280	₦126,000 – ₦200,000	Very High
University of Ibadan (UI)	260–290	₦100,000 – ₦170,000	Very High
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria	250–290	₦80,000 – ₦150,000	Very High
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)	240–270	₦90,000 – ₦170,000	High
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)	230–260	₦70,000 – ₦150,000	High
University of Benin (UNIBEN)	230–260	₦100,000 – ₦180,000	High
University of Calabar (UNICAL)	220–250	₦75,000 – ₦140,000	Moderate to High
University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)	220–250	₦90,000 – ₦170,000	Moderate to High
Bayero University Kano (BUK)	210–240	₦65,000 – ₦130,000	Moderate
University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)	210–240	₦80,000 – ₦160,000	Moderate
University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)	200–230	₦70,000 – ₦140,000	Moderate

Why Federal Universities Are Highly Competitive

Several factors contribute to the intense competition for Nursing admission in federal universities:

Lower tuition fees compared to most private institutions
Access to accredited teaching hospitals
Strong academic reputation across Nigeria
Better research and laboratory facilities
Wider recognition by employers and professional bodies

Because of the large number of applicants, candidates should aim for scores significantly higher than the official cut-off mark. In many cases, admission decisions are based on aggregate scores that combine JAMB, Post-UTME, and O’Level performance.

State Universities Offering Nursing Science in Nigeria

State universities also provide excellent opportunities for students interested in pursuing a career in Nursing. Many of these institutions have well-equipped teaching hospitals and established healthcare training programmes.

One major advantage of state universities is that indigenes often enjoy reduced tuition fees, making them an attractive option for candidates seeking affordable education.

Below are some state universities that offer Nursing Science and their typical admission requirements.

State University	Expected JAMB Score Range	Estimated Annual School Fees	Admission Competitiveness
Lagos State University (LASU)	230–260	₦130,000 – ₦250,000	High
Ekiti State University (EKSU)	200–230	₦150,000 – ₦220,000	Moderate
Delta State University (DELSU)	200–230	₦95,000 – ₦180,000	Moderate
Rivers State University (RSU)	210–240	₦120,000 – ₦200,000	High
Ebonyi State University (EBSU)	200–230	₦90,000 – ₦160,000	Moderate
Imo State University (IMSU)	200–220	₦100,000 – ₦180,000	Moderate
Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)	200–230	₦120,000 – ₦200,000	Moderate
Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT)	200–220	₦110,000 – ₦190,000	Moderate
Abia State University (ABSU)	200–220	₦100,000 – ₦170,000	Moderate
Nasarawa State University (NSUK)	200–220	₦95,000 – ₦170,000	Moderate

Colleges of Nursing Offering Nursing Programmes in Nigeria

For candidates who may not meet the highly competitive cut-off marks required by universities, Colleges of Nursing provide an excellent alternative pathway into the nursing profession. These institutions focus on practical healthcare training and produce qualified nurses who can work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities across Nigeria.

Many Colleges of Nursing have lower admission requirements than universities, although competition has increased in recent years due to growing interest in the profession.

The table below highlights some popular Colleges of Nursing in Nigeria, their typical admission score range, and estimated school fees.

College of Nursing	Expected JAMB Score Range	Estimated Annual Fees
OAUTHC College of Nursing, Ile-Ife	180–220	₦150,000 – ₦300,000
UBTH College of Nursing, Benin	180–220	₦120,000 – ₦250,000
University College Hospital (UCH) School of Nursing, Ibadan	180–220	₦150,000 – ₦300,000
Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) School of Nursing	180–220	₦150,000 – ₦350,000
School of Nursing Kano	170–210	₦80,000 – ₦180,000
School of Nursing Birnin Kebbi	170–210	₦80,000 – ₦180,000
School of Nursing Sokoto	170–210	₦80,000 – ₦180,000
School of Nursing Gombe	170–210	₦80,000 – ₦180,000
School of Nursing Maiduguri	170–210	₦80,000 – ₦180,000
School of Nursing Makurdi	170–210	₦90,000 – ₦200,000
School of Nursing Akure	170–210	₦90,000 – ₦200,000
School of Nursing Abeokuta	170–210	₦90,000 – ₦200,000
School of Nursing Umuahia	170–210	₦90,000 – ₦200,000
School of Nursing Calabar	170–210	₦90,000 – ₦200,000
School of Nursing Yola	170–210	₦90,000 – ₦200,000

Why Consider a College of Nursing?

Colleges of Nursing offer several advantages:

Lower admission competition compared to many universities
Strong emphasis on practical and clinical training
Faster route into the healthcare sector
Affordable tuition in many states
Opportunities to continue to higher nursing qualifications later

Admission Requirements for Colleges of Nursing

Although requirements vary by institution, candidates generally need:

At least five credits in English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB results
A valid JAMB score (where applicable)
Successful performance in the school’s screening or entrance examination
Minimum age requirement set by the institution

What JAMB Score Is Good for Colleges of Nursing?

For most Colleges of Nursing in Nigeria:

140–159: Limited options available
160–179: Eligible for some colleges
180–199: Competitive for many colleges
200 and above: Strong chance of admission

University Nursing vs College of Nursing

Feature	University Nursing	College of Nursing
Qualification	Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.NSc.)	Nursing Diploma/ND/HND pathway
Duration	5 Years	Usually 3–4 Years
Competition	Very High	Moderate
Typical JAMB Score	220–290	160–220
Clinical Training	Yes	Yes
Career Opportunities	Extensive	Extensive

Important Note

Admission requirements, tuition fees, and cut-off marks can change yearly. Candidates should always verify the latest information from their preferred College of Nursing before applying for the 2026/2027 academic session.

Choosing the Right University for Nursing

Instead of applying only to highly competitive institutions, candidates should consider creating a balanced admission strategy.

For example:

High-risk choice: Universities requiring 260+ scores
Moderate-risk choice: Universities requiring 220–250 scores
Safer choice: Institutions accepting 200–220 scores

This approach increases your chances of securing admission if competition becomes tougher than expected.

General Admission Requirements for Nursing in Nigeria

Meeting the cut-off mark alone does not guarantee admission. Candidates must also satisfy several academic and eligibility requirements before they can be considered for Nursing programmes.

O’Level Requirements

Applicants must possess at least five credit passes in the following subjects:

English Language
Mathematics
Biology
Chemistry
Physics

These results may be obtained through:

WAEC
NECO
NABTEB
GCE

Most institutions accept results from a maximum of two sittings, although some universities may have stricter requirements.

JAMB Subject Combination

Candidates applying for Nursing must register the following UTME subjects:

English Language (Compulsory)
Biology
Chemistry
Physics

Using the wrong subject combination may lead to disqualification during admission screening.

Minimum JAMB Score

Applicants must score at least the minimum cut-off mark specified by their chosen institution. However, because Nursing is highly competitive, candidates should aim for scores well above the minimum requirement.

Post-UTME Screening

Many universities conduct additional screening exercises after JAMB. Performance in the Post-UTME often contributes to the final admission decision.

Age Requirement

Most institutions require candidates to be at least 16 years old before admission can be finalized.

Medical Fitness

Successful candidates may be required to present a medical fitness report before beginning clinical training and hospital placements.

Supporting Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide:

Birth Certificate or Declaration of Age
National Identification Number (NIN)
JAMB Result Slip
O’Level Results
Other documents requested by the institution

Important Reminder

Even if you meet the minimum admission requirements, aiming for a higher JAMB score and performing well in Post-UTME can significantly improve your chances of securing admission into Nursing Science for the 2026/2027 academic session.

Colleges of Nursing vs Universities: Which Has Lower Cut-Off Marks?

Many students do not realize that there are different pathways into the nursing profession.

University Nursing Programmes

These lead to a Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc or B.NSc.) degree.

Examples include:

University of Ibadan
University of Lagos
University of Ilorin
Ahmadu Bello University
University of Benin

Admission into university Nursing programmes is highly competitive.

Colleges of Nursing

These institutions often have:

Lower admission requirements
Lower JAMB cut-off marks
Separate entrance examinations

Examples include:

State Colleges of Nursing
Federal Colleges of Nursing
Teaching Hospital Nursing Schools

For candidates with lower UTME scores, these institutions may provide a viable alternative pathway.

Common Reasons Students Lose Nursing Admission

Every year, many candidates with impressive JAMB scores fail to gain admission.

Here are some common mistakes:

Wrong Subject Combination

Using incorrect UTME subjects can automatically disqualify an applicant.

Poor O’Level Results

Even a high JAMB score cannot compensate for missing required credits.

Weak Post-UTME Performance

Some candidates score well in UTME but perform poorly during screening.

Failure to Upload Results

Candidates who fail to upload O’Level results to JAMB CAPS may encounter admission problems.

Choosing Highly Competitive Universities

Applying only to schools with extremely competitive Nursing programmes can reduce admission chances.

Best Universities to Study Nursing in Nigeria 2026

The following institutions are among the most respected Nursing schools in Nigeria.

University of Ibadan (UI)

Known for academic excellence and strong healthcare training.

University of Lagos (UNILAG)

One of Nigeria’s most competitive Nursing programmes.

University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

Highly respected for Nursing and health-related courses.

University of Benin (UNIBEN)

Popular among Nursing applicants due to quality training and facilities.

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

Offers strong academic and clinical exposure.

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

One of Northern Nigeria’s leading institutions for Nursing education.

University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

Known for stable academic calendars and quality healthcare programmes.

How to Increase Your Chances of Gaining Nursing Admission

Aim Above the Minimum Cut-Off

Do not settle for the minimum score.

If the expected cut-off is 200, target 250 or higher.

Prepare for Post-UTME Early

A strong Post-UTME score can significantly improve your aggregate.

Obtain Strong O’Level Results

Try to secure excellent grades in:

English Language
Mathematics
Biology
Chemistry
Physics

Choose Institutions Wisely

Apply to schools that realistically match your UTME score.

Monitor Admission Updates

Stay informed about:

Post-UTME registration
Screening dates
Admission lists
JAMB CAPS updates

Nursing Career Opportunities After Graduation

One reason Nursing remains popular is the wide range of career opportunities available.

Graduates can work in:

Government hospitals
Private hospitals
Primary healthcare centres
Teaching hospitals
International healthcare organisations
NGOs
Public health agencies
Educational institutions

Many Nigerian nurses also pursue international opportunities in countries such as:

United Kingdom
Canada
Australia
United States
Saudi Arabia

Final Advice for Nursing Aspirants

If you are serious about studying Nursing in the 2026/2027 admission cycle, your goal should not be to meet the minimum requirement—it should be to exceed it.

A high JAMB score, excellent O’Level results, and strong Post-UTME performance significantly improve your admission chances.

Because Nursing is highly competitive, candidates should prepare early, choose the correct subject combination, and target universities that match their academic profile.

The higher your score, the more options you will have during admission.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I study Nursing with 180 in JAMB?

Yes, it is possible to study Nursing with a JAMB score of 180, but your options may be limited. Most federal universities require significantly higher scores due to the competitiveness of Nursing. However, some state universities, private universities, and Colleges of Nursing may consider candidates with scores around 180, provided they meet other admission requirements.

Can I study Nursing with 200 in JAMB?

Yes. A JAMB score of 200 gives you a better chance of gaining admission into Nursing compared to lower scores. While highly competitive universities may require 230–270 or higher, many state universities and private institutions consider candidates with scores around 200, especially when combined with strong O’Level results and good Post-UTME performance.

What is the cut-off mark for Nursing in UNILAG?

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is one of the most competitive universities for Nursing Science in Nigeria. The departmental cut-off mark for Nursing typically falls between 240 and 260, depending on the admission year and the performance of applicants. Candidates should aim for 250 or above to improve their chances.

What is the cut-off mark for Nursing in UI?

The University of Ibadan (UI) has one of the most competitive Nursing programmes in Nigeria. Nursing applicants often need a JAMB score between 250 and 270 or higher to be considered for admission. Since admission requirements can vary yearly, candidates should always check the latest admission guidelines released by the university.

Is Nursing a competitive course in Nigeria?

Yes. Nursing is among the most competitive courses in Nigeria due to the increasing demand for healthcare professionals both locally and internationally. Thousands of candidates apply each year, while universities have limited admission slots. This high demand often leads to higher cut-off marks and stricter admission requirements.

Does Nursing require Physics in JAMB?

Yes. Physics is generally required for Nursing admission in most Nigerian universities. The standard JAMB subject combination for Nursing is:

English Language
Biology
Chemistry
Physics

Candidates are advised to confirm the specific subject requirements of their preferred institution before registering for UTME.

Can I combine WAEC and NECO for Nursing?

Yes. Many universities allow candidates to combine WAEC and NECO results for Nursing admission, provided the required five credit passes are obtained. However, some institutions and highly competitive programmes may prefer or require one sitting. Always verify the admission policy of your chosen school.

Which private universities offer Nursing in Nigeria?

Several private universities in Nigeria offer accredited Nursing programmes, including:

Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
Babcock University
Bingham University
Achievers University
Adeleke University
Benson Idahosa University
Skyline University
Gregory University

Admission requirements and cut-off marks may vary from one institution to another.

Which university has the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing?

There is no single university with the lowest Nursing cut-off mark every year because admission requirements change based on competition and available spaces. However, some newer federal universities, state universities, and private universities may accept lower scores compared to highly competitive institutions like UI, UNILAG, and UNN.

How many years does it take to study Nursing in Nigeria?

A Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.NSc.) programme in Nigeria typically lasts five years for UTME candidates. The programme includes classroom learning, laboratory practicals, clinical training, and professional examinations. Direct Entry students may complete the programme in a shorter period depending on the institution’s regulations.

Can I study Nursing through Direct Entry?

Yes. Candidates can gain admission into Nursing through Direct Entry if they possess relevant qualifications such as:

ND or HND in a related field
Registered Nursing certificate
IJMB or A-Level qualifications
Other accepted equivalent qualifications

Applicants must also meet the O’Level requirements and any additional conditions set by the university.

Is Mathematics compulsory for Nursing?

Yes. Mathematics is one of the compulsory O’Level requirements for Nursing in Nigeria. Candidates are generally required to have at least a credit pass in:

English Language
Mathematics
Biology
Chemistry
Physics

Without a credit pass in Mathematics, most universities will not consider an applicant for Nursing admission.

Can I study Nursing without Biology?

No. Biology is a core subject for Nursing and is compulsory at both the O’Level and UTME levels. Candidates without Biology cannot qualify for admission into Nursing programmes.

What is a safe JAMB score for Nursing in 2026/2027?

A safe score depends on your preferred institution. Generally:

250+ is considered highly competitive.
220–249 provides a good chance in many universities.
200–219 may be sufficient for some state and private universities.
Below 200 may require considering Colleges of Nursing or less competitive institutions.

Do I need Post-UTME to study Nursing?

Most universities require candidates to participate in their Post-UTME screening process. Your Post-UTME score often contributes to the aggregate score used for admission decisions. Performing well in Post-UTME can significantly improve your chances of securing admission into Nursing.