The JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing in 2025 ranges from 160 to 270+, depending on your university choice. Federal universities like UNICAL demand 270+, while private institutions like Babcock accept 160+. But here’s the truth: meeting the minimum won’t guarantee admission.
You’re competing with thousands of brilliant minds for limited spots. That 180 “minimum” at UNIMAID? Most admitted students scored 200+. The game has changed, and you need insider knowledge to win.
Why Nursing Cut-Off Marks Are Sky-High in Nigeria
Nursing isn’t just popular—it’s become the golden ticket for Nigerian youth. The reasons are crystal clear:
Healthcare jobs abroad pay ₦2-5M monthly. UK hospitals actively recruit Nigerian nurses. That’s generational wealth we’re talking about.
Limited university slots create brutal competition. UNILAG accepts 80 nursing students from 4,000+ applicants. Do the maths.
NMCN accreditation rules restrict how many nursing programmes universities can run. Fewer programmes = higher competition.
The result? Cut-off marks that would make your grandfather’s generation weep. But don’t worry—we’ve got the strategy to beat the system.
Federal Universities: Where Dreams Meet Reality
Federal universities remain the holy grail for most students. Free tuition, international recognition, alumni networks that open doors. But their nursing cut-offs? Brutal.
Top-Tier Federal Universities (250+ Required)
- University of Ibadan (UI): 250+
- University of Benin (UNIBEN): 250+
- University of Calabar (UNICAL): 270+
- Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo: 270+
These schools reject 95% of applicants. You need more than good grades—you need strategy.
Mid-Tier Federal Options (220-240 Range)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG): 240+
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN): 240+
- University of Uyo (UNIUYO): 240+
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN): 230+
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU): 230+
Still competitive, but slightly more forgiving. Perfect if you scored 230-250.
Federal Universities with Lower Barriers (150-200)
| University | Cut-Off Mark | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Federal University, Lokoja | 150+ | Kogi State |
| Federal University, Kashere | 150+ | Gombe State |
| Federal University, Dutse | 150+ | Jigawa State |
| Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare | 160+ | Bauchi State |
| Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila Orangun | 160+ | Osun State |
| University of Maiduguri | 180+ | Borno State |
| University of Port Harcourt | 180+ | Rivers State |
Don’t sleep on these options. Quality education without the Lagos/Abuja competition madness.
State Universities: Hidden Gems and Fierce Competition
State universities offer excellent nursing programmes, often with better lecturer-student ratios than overcrowded federal schools. But some compete directly with federal institutions.
Highly Competitive State Schools
- Lagos State University (LASU): 220+
- Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU): 250+
- Benue State University (BSU): 230+
- Rivers State University (RSU): 220+
LASU particularly brutal—Lagos parents push their kids hard, driving up competition.
Moderate Competition State Options
- University of Medical Sciences, Ondo (UNIMED): 200+
- Kaduna State University (KASU): 200+
- Enugu State University (ESUT): 200+
- Delta State University (DELSU): 200+
- Osun State University (UNIOSUN): 200+
Sweet spot for students scoring 200-220. Good programmes, reasonable competition.
Lower Cut-Off State Universities
- Ebonyi State University (EBSU): 170+
- Zamfara State University: 200+
- Ekiti State University (EKSU): 200+
Perfect backup options. Don’t let location bias cloud your judgement—these schools produce excellent nurses.
Private Universities: Your Safety Net (With a Price Tag)
Private universities saved countless nursing dreams. Lower cut-offs, smaller classes, modern facilities. The catch? Tuition fees between ₦800K-₦3M per session.
Premium Private Options
- Afe Babalola University (ABUAD): 200+
- Al-Hikmah University: 220+
- Atiba University: 200+
Mid-Range Private Schools
- Madonna University: 180+
- Babcock University: 170+
- Redeemer’s University: 180+
- Lead City University: 180+
- Bowen University: 180+
Budget-Friendly Private Options
- Adeleke University: 160+
- Achievers University: 160+
- Chrisland University: 160+
- Rhema University: 160+
If your JAMB score is 160-190, these schools offer genuine opportunities. Many graduates work abroad successfully.
O’Level Requirements: The Foundation You Can’t Ignore
Your WAEC/NECO results must include five credit passes in:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Maximum two sittings allowed. No exceptions, no negotiations.
Pro Tip for O’Level Improvement
Got D7 in Chemistry? Retake it before university admission. Many students focus only on JAMB, ignoring weak O’Level grades that kill their chances.
Direct Entry: The Smart Alternative Route
Direct Entry bypasses UTME cut-offs entirely. Requirements include:
Academic Qualifications:
- OND/HND in Nursing or related health sciences
- Two A-Level passes in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics
- IJMB/JUPEB certificates with science subjects
- Registered Nurse (RN) certificates
Age Requirement: 16+ by admission month (no exceptions)
Many mature students use this route successfully. Less competition, faster admission process.
Post-UTME: Where Good Students Become Great Ones
JAMB score gets you to the door. Post-UTME decides if you enter.
Typical Post-UTME Format
- Biology: 40% of questions
- Chemistry: 30% of questions
- Physics: 20% of questions
- English: 10% of questions
Scoring Strategy
Universities combine JAMB and Post-UTME scores:
- JAMB: 50% weight
- Post-UTME: 50% weight
Example: JAMB 250 + Post-UTME 60% = Final score 65%
Many 270+ JAMB scorers get rejected because they bombed Post-UTME. Don’t make this mistake.
Why Your 200+ Score Didn’t Guarantee Admission
The hidden quota system explains everything:
Federal University Admission Formula
- State of Origin: 40% (locals get priority)
- Educationally Disadvantaged States: 20% bonus
- Merit: 40%
If you’re from Lagos competing for UNILAG’s 80 nursing slots against 3,000 applicants, your 240 might not suffice. The system favours geographical balance.
Catchment Area Politics
Universities reserve slots for their immediate environment. UNICAL prioritises Cross River students. UNIMAID favours North-East candidates. Know the game before playing.
7 Proven Strategies to Secure Nursing Admission
1. Target Multiple Score Ranges
Don’t put all eggs in one basket. Apply to:
- Reach schools (your dream universities)
- Match schools (realistic based on your score)
- Safety schools (guaranteed admission options)
2. Master Post-UTME Past Questions
Universities recycle 60-70% of questions yearly. Get past questions from seniors, practice daily for two weeks before screening.
3. Consider Geographical Strategy
Yoruba student? Apply to northern universities where you’re a minority—automatic quota advantage. Hausa student? Consider southern schools for similar benefits.
4. Time Your Application Smartly
Apply early when cut-offs are lower. Late applications face higher competition as remaining slots shrink.
5. Network with Current Students
Get insider information about departmental preferences, screening formats, interview questions. WhatsApp groups and social media help here.
6. Prepare Alternative Plans
Have Colleges of Nursing as backup. LUTH School of Nursing, UNTH School of Nursing offer excellent 3-4 year programmes leading to RN certification.
7. Consider Foundation Programmes
Some universities offer pre-degree programmes for students who missed direct admission. One extra year, guaranteed progression to degree level.
Colleges of Nursing: The Overlooked Gold Mine
Nigerian students obsess over university degrees, ignoring quality nursing colleges. Big mistake.
Top Nursing Colleges
- Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) School of Nursing
- University College Hospital (UCH) Ibadan School of Nursing
- Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital School of Nursing
- University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital School of Nursing
These colleges produce nurses who work globally. Lower competition, focused training, direct hospital exposure.
RN-to-BSN Bridge Programmes
Many colleges partner with universities for degree completion. Graduate as RN, work while studying for BSN part-time. Smart financial strategy.
Common Mistakes That Kill Nursing Dreams
Mistake #1: Focusing Only on JAMB Score
Post-UTME matters equally. Many 270+ scorers get rejected because they ignored screening preparation.
Mistake #2: Ignoring State/Private Universities
Nursing quality doesn’t depend on federal status. LASU Nursing graduates work in UK hospitals successfully.
Mistake #3: Poor Subject Combination Planning
Choosing Literature instead of Physics? Automatic disqualification. Verify requirements before registration.
Mistake #4: Late Application Submission
Universities fill slots on first-come, first-served basis. Early birds get the worms.
Mistake #5: Ignoring Catchment Area Advantages
Apply to universities where your state gets quota benefits. Free advantage many students waste.
Financial Planning for Nursing School
Federal Universities
- Tuition: ₦45K-₦150K per session
- Accommodation: ₦50K-₦100K per session
- Feeding/Miscellaneous: ₦200K-₦400K per session
- Total Annual Cost: �N300K-₦650K
State Universities
- Tuition: ₦100K-₦400K per session
- Other Costs: Similar to federal schools
- Total Annual Cost: ₦400K-₦900K
Private Universities
- Tuition: ₦800K-₦3M per session
- Accommodation: Usually included
- Total Annual Cost: ₦1M-₦3.5M
Plan finances early. Nursing school demands expensive textbooks, uniforms, clinical equipment.
Career Prospects After Nursing School
Local Opportunities
- Fresh Graduate Salary: ₦80K-₦150K monthly
- Experienced Nurses: ₦200K-₦500K monthly
- Nurse Managers: ₦600K-₦1.2M monthly
International Opportunities
- UK Staff Nurses: £25K-£35K annually (₦20M-₦28M)
- Canada RNs: CAD $70K-$90K annually (₦42M-₦54M)
- USA RNs: $60K-$80K annually (₦48M-₦64M)
- Middle East: $30K-$50K annually (tax-free)
The investment pays off handsomely. Many Nigerian nurses buy houses within 5 years of relocating abroad.
Updated Cut-Off Marks Summary Table
| University Type | Score Range | Competition Level | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top Federal | 250-270+ | Extreme | Apply if you scored 260+ |
| Mid Federal | 220-250 | Very High | Good option for 230+ scorers |
| Lower Federal | 150-200 | Moderate | Excellent value, less competition |
| Top State | 220-250 | High | Consider for 220+ scores |
| Mid State | 200-220 | Moderate | Sweet spot for many students |
| Premium Private | 200-220 | Low-Moderate | If you can afford fees |
| Budget Private | 160-180 | Low | Great opportunity for 160+ scorers |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I study Nursing with 150 JAMB score?
Yes, but only at select federal universities like FULOKOJA (150+) or private universities like Rhema (160+). Federal/state mainstream schools won’t consider such scores.
Does JAMB cut-off include Post-UTME performance?
No. JAMB cut-off is just eligibility for screening. Final admission depends on combined JAMB and Post-UTME scores.
What if I missed Physics in O’Level?
You must retake WAEC/NECO. No nursing programme accepts candidates without Physics credit. Non-negotiable NMCN requirement.
Can I combine JAMB results from different years?
No. Universities only consider your latest UTME score. 2024’s 190 + 2025’s 210? They’ll use 210 only.
Is nursing still valuable without immediate job prospects?
Absolutely. Nigeria’s nurse-to-patient ratio is 1:5,000 (WHO recommends 1:300). Job offers come before graduation.
Which universities accept second choice candidates for nursing?
Very few, and competition is brutal. Universities prioritise first-choice candidates. Choose your first choice wisely.
How do I improve my chances with average O’Level grades?
Focus on excellent JAMB performance (250+) and ace Post-UTME. Some universities overlook average O’Levels for exceptional UTME scores.
Final Words: Your Nursing Journey Starts Now
Nursing admission in Nigeria is competitive but completely achievable with smart strategy. Don’t just meet minimum requirements—exceed them. Target multiple universities, prepare thoroughly for Post-UTME, and keep alternatives ready.
The healthcare industry needs passionate, qualified nurses. Whether you score 160 or 270, there’s a nursing programme waiting for someone with your determination.
Your stethoscope is calling. Time to answer.
Remember: These cut-off marks change annually based on competition and university policies. Always verify current requirements from official university sources before making final decisions.