Admission Requirements for Nursing in Nigeria: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you aspiring to pursue nursing in Nigeria? If yes, then you’re in the right place. Nursing is one of the most respected and in-demand professions in the Nigerian healthcare system. However, gaining admission into a reputable nursing program can be quite competitive. This guide breaks down the full admission requirements for nursing in Nigeria, covering everything from academic qualifications to licensing requirements.

Why Choose Nursing in Nigeria?

Nursing in Nigeria offers a rewarding and secure career path. Here are a few reasons why nursing is a popular choice:

• High job demand across government and private hospitals
• Opportunities for international migration
• A chance to serve humanity and make a difference
• Competitive salaries and job benefits

According to the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), over 200,000 registered nurses currently work in Nigeria, with demand growing annually.

Types of Nursing Programs in Nigeria

There are different pathways to becoming a nurse in Nigeria. Your chosen route determines the admission criteria. The main programs include:

1. Basic Nursing Program

• Duration: 3 years
• Leads to Registered Nurse (RN) qualification
• Offered by Schools/Colleges of Nursing

2. Post Basic Nursing Program

• Duration: 1-2 years
• Requires RN qualification
• For specialization (e.g., Paediatrics, Midwifery, Psychiatry)

3. Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.NSc.)

• Duration: 5 years
• University-based program
• Includes internship and NYSC
• Leads to RN, Registered Midwife (RM), and Bachelor of Nursing degrees

General Admission Requirements for Nursing in Nigeria

Whether you choose a school of nursing or a university program, here are the basic admission criteria:

Academic Qualifications

• Minimum of five (5) O’Level credits in:
  • English Language
  • Mathematics
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
• Results must be from WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB (at not more than two sittings)
• JAMB is required for university-based B.NSc. programs

UTME Requirements (For University Nursing Programs)

• Must choose Nursing/Nursing Science as first choice
• JAMB subject combination:
  • Use of English (compulsory)
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
• Minimum UTME score: 200+ (competitive programs may require 250+)

Post UTME Screening

• Conducted by individual universities
• Includes aptitude tests and sometimes oral interviews
• Cut-off marks vary by institution

Additional Requirements for Nursing School Admissions

For basic and post-basic schools of nursing, in addition to O’Level requirements:

• Age: Applicants must be at least 17 years old
• Health screening: Physical and mental fitness is assessed
• Oral and written entrance exams are administered
• Birth Certificate and Local Government Identification are required

Top Universities Offering B.NSc. in Nigeria

Here are some top-ranked universities offering B.NSc. programs:

University Name	Location	Cut-off Mark
University of Ibadan (UI)	Oyo State	250+
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)	Osun State	240+
University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)	Enugu State	230+
University of Lagos (UNILAG)	Lagos State	240+
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria)	Kaduna State	220+
Bayero University Kano (BUK)	Kano State	210+

How to Apply for Nursing Programs in Nigeria

Follow these steps to apply:

1. Choose your preferred program (Basic Nursing, Post Basic, or B.NSc.)
2. Check eligibility based on academic and age criteria
3. Register for JAMB (for university programs)
4. Apply through JAMB CAPS or directly to schools of nursing
5. Participate in entrance exams/interviews
6. Await admission list and confirm on school portal

Challenges of Gaining Admission to Nursing Schools in Nigeria

Some common obstacles include:

• High competition (limited slots)
• High cut-off marks
• Cost of multiple applications
• Limited number of accredited nursing institutions

Pro Tip: Apply early, prepare rigorously for entrance exams, and consider both federal and state institutions.

Nursing Licensure in Nigeria

After completing any nursing program, candidates must:

1. Pass the professional qualifying examination by the NMCN
2. Register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria
3. Obtain a nursing license to legally practice in Nigeria

Nursing in Nigeria: Career Opportunities

Nurses in Nigeria can work in various fields:

• Public hospitals
• Private clinics
• Military and paramilitary health units
• NGOs and international health organizations
• Telemedicine and online consultation platforms

Specialization options include:

• Midwifery
• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Psychiatric Nursing
• Anesthesia Nursing

FAQs: Admission Requirements for Nursing in Nigeria

What subjects are required to study nursing in Nigeria?

You need credits in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

Is JAMB compulsory for nursing in Nigeria?

Yes, but only for university-based B.NSc. programs. Schools of Nursing have their own entrance exams.

What is the age limit for nursing in Nigeria?

Most nursing schools require applicants to be at least 17 years old.

Can I use NABTEB results to study nursing?

Yes, if the results include the required subjects and are accepted by the institution.

How many years does it take to become a nurse in Nigeria?

• Basic Nursing: 3 years
• B.NSc.: 5 years + 1-year internship + NYSC

Are there online nursing programs in Nigeria?

Currently, no accredited online nursing degrees exist in Nigeria. All programs require physical attendance.

Conclusion

Studying nursing in Nigeria is both a noble and promising career path. But gaining admission requires careful planning, meeting academic qualifications, and preparing for competitive exams. Whether you’re eyeing a basic nursing program or a B.NSc. degree, knowing the admission requirements for nursing in Nigeria is your first step toward success.

Start your journey today by researching schools, preparing your documents, and acing your exams.

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