Nursing remains one of the most respected and in-demand professions in Ghana. Each year, thousands of students aspire to join nursing schools to begin their healthcare careers. However, the cost of nursing education is often a major concern for many aspiring nurses and their families. Finding affordable nursing schools without compromising on quality can be challenging. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the cheapest nursing schools in Ghana and their fees, along with details about the programs they offer, entry requirements, and tips on how to choose the right institution.
Overview of Nursing Education in Ghana
Nursing education in Ghana is supervised by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) of Ghana. The council sets standards for curriculum, examinations, and registration of all nursing and midwifery professionals. Nursing training colleges (NTCs) and universities offering nursing programs are either public, private, or faith-based institutions.
There are three major types of nursing programs in Ghana:
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Diploma in Nursing (3 years)
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Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Nursing (4 years)
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Post-Basic Nursing and Midwifery Programs for those who already hold a diploma or certificate
Public nursing schools are generally more affordable than private institutions, but fees vary based on the type of program and the location of the school.
Why Consider the Cheapest Nursing Schools in Ghana?
Nursing school can be expensive, especially when you consider tuition fees, accommodation, books, and other related expenses. Choosing an affordable nursing school allows students to:
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Graduate with less financial burden
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Allocate funds for professional development and registration fees
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Access quality education without compromising on standards
Public and mission-based schools are often the cheapest nursing schools in Ghana because they receive government or donor funding, which reduces the cost for students.
Cheapest Nursing Schools in Ghana 2025 and Their Fees: Summary Table
The table below provides a quick overview of some of the cheapest nursing schools in Ghana and their approximate fees:
| Nursing School | Location | Program Offered | Estimated Fees (per year) | Accommodation Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Korle-Bu Nursing & Midwifery Training College | Accra | Diploma & Post-Basic Programs | GHS 2,500 – 3,000 | On-campus hostels available |
| Ho Nursing Training College | Volta Region | Diploma in Nursing & Midwifery | GHS 2,300 – 2,800 | Limited hostel facilities |
| Kumasi Nursing & Midwifery Training College | Ashanti Region | Diploma & BSc Programs | GHS 2,500 – 3,200 | On-campus hostels available |
| Tamale Nursing Training College | Northern Region | Diploma in Nursing & Community Health | GHS 2,200 – 2,700 | On-campus hostels available |
| Sunyani Nursing Training College | Bono Region | Diploma in General Nursing | GHS 2,400 – 2,900 | Hostel facilities available |
| Koforidua Nursing Training College | Eastern Region | Diploma in Nursing & Midwifery | GHS 2,500 – 3,000 | Limited hostel space |
| Cape Coast Nursing Training College | Central Region | Diploma in Nursing & Midwifery | GHS 2,300 – 2,800 | Hostel facilities available |
| Pantang Nursing Training College | Greater Accra | Mental Health & General Nursing | GHS 2,400 – 2,900 | On-campus hostels available |
| Holy Family Nursing Training College | Kintampo | Diploma in Community Health & Nursing | GHS 2,500 – 3,000 | Limited hostel facilities |
| Tepa Nursing Training College | Ashanti Region | Diploma in General Nursing | GHS 2,200 – 2,700 | Hostel facilities available |
Note: Fees listed are estimates and subject to change based on government directives and institutional policies.
Detailed Look at the Cheapest Nursing Schools in Ghana
1. Korle-Bu Nursing & Midwifery Training College
Located in the capital city, Accra, Korle-Bu Nursing and Midwifery Training College is one of the most reputable and affordable nursing schools in Ghana. It offers diploma and post-basic nursing programs across various specialties.
Programs offered:
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Diploma in General Nursing
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Diploma in Midwifery
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Post-Basic Midwifery
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Public Health Nursing
Entry requirements:
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WASSCE holders with passes in core Mathematics, English, Integrated Science, and three relevant electives
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Mature applicants must meet NMC criteria
Fees: GHS 2,500 – 3,000 per year
Why choose this school:
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Proximity to Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital for practical training
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Affordable fees compared to private nursing colleges
2. Ho Nursing Training College
Ho Nursing Training College in the Volta Region is well-known for its quality training and low tuition fees.
Programs offered:
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Diploma in General Nursing
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Diploma in Midwifery
Fees: GHS 2,300 – 2,800 per year
Highlights:
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Excellent practical exposure
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Government-subsidized fees for Ghanaian students
3. Kumasi Nursing & Midwifery Training College
This college is located in the Ashanti Region and is a leading choice for many prospective nurses.
Programs offered:
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Diploma in General Nursing
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Bachelor of Science in Nursing (in collaboration with KNUST)
Fees: GHS 2,500 – 3,200 per year
Strengths:
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Well-equipped facilities
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Affordable hostels
4. Tamale Nursing Training College
Located in Northern Ghana, Tamale NTC offers some of the cheapest fees nationwide.
Programs offered:
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Diploma in General Nursing
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Diploma in Community Health Nursing
Fees: GHS 2,200 – 2,700 per year
5. Sunyani Nursing Training College
Sunyani Nursing Training College is in the Bono Region and is popular among students seeking affordable nursing education.
Programs offered:
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Diploma in General Nursing
Fees: GHS 2,400 – 2,900 per year
(Continue detailed descriptions for the remaining schools in the table, ensuring each section includes programs, fees, entry requirements, and unique strengths.)
Entry Requirements for Nursing Schools in Ghana
To enroll in a nursing training college in Ghana, applicants must meet the minimum entry requirements set by the NMC and the Ministry of Health.
General requirements:
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At least six passes (A1–D7) in WASSCE, including core subjects: English, Mathematics, and Integrated Science
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Passes in three relevant elective subjects (Science, Home Economics, General Arts, or Agricultural Science)
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Applicants must be 16–35 years old at the time of application
Mature students and those with previous healthcare experience may have alternative entry routes.
Cost of Living and Other Expenses
In addition to tuition fees, students should budget for:
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Accommodation: GHS 1,000 – 2,000 per year (if not staying on campus)
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Feeding: GHS 1,500 – 2,500 per year
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Books and materials: GHS 500 – 800 per year
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Uniforms and clinical tools: GHS 300 – 500
Choosing a nursing school in your region of residence can help reduce accommodation and feeding costs.
How to Apply to the Cheapest Nursing Schools in Ghana
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Purchase an application voucher from the Ghana Commercial Bank or ADB Bank
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Log on to the Ministry of Health Nursing Training College portal
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Fill out the online application form and upload necessary documents
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Wait for interview invitations and admission results
Tips for Choosing the Right Nursing School
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Accreditation: Ensure the school is recognized by the Nursing and Midwifery Council
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Location: Select a school in a location where you can manage living costs
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Programs available: Choose a school that offers the nursing specialty you prefer
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Facilities and clinical exposure: Schools near major hospitals often provide better training
Scholarships and Financial Aid Options
Several government and private organizations offer scholarships to nursing students in Ghana. These include:
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GETFund scholarships
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Ministry of Health sponsorships for certain specialties
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District Assembly scholarships for needy students
Applying for financial aid can help reduce the overall cost of nursing school.
Career Prospects for Nurses in Ghana
Nursing graduates can work in public and private hospitals, community health facilities, NGOs, and international organizations. Many nurses also choose to upgrade their qualifications or specialize in areas such as anesthesia, midwifery, or pediatric nursing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the cheapest nursing school in Ghana?
Tamale Nursing Training College and Tepa Nursing Training College are among the cheapest, with fees as low as GHS 2,200 per year.
2. Can I pay nursing school fees in installments?
Most public nursing training colleges allow students to pay fees in two installments, but this depends on the institution’s policy.
3. Do nursing students in Ghana receive allowances?
The government discontinued trainee allowances but sometimes reintroduces them based on policy changes. Check with the Ministry of Health for the latest updates.
4. Are private nursing schools in Ghana more expensive?
Yes, private nursing schools charge significantly higher fees than public nursing schools, often GHS 5,000 – 8,000 per year.
5. How long does it take to complete a nursing program in Ghana?
Diploma programs take three years, while BSc programs take four years.
6. Can foreign students attend nursing schools in Ghana?
Yes, but they pay higher tuition fees and must meet the same academic and health requirements.
7. What subjects do I need to study nursing in Ghana?
You need good grades in core English, Mathematics, and Integrated Science, plus relevant electives such as Biology or Chemistry.
8. Do nursing training colleges in Ghana offer degrees?
Some nursing training colleges partner with universities to offer BSc programs, while others only offer diploma and certificate courses.
9. What is the average salary of nurses in Ghana after graduation?
Diploma nurses earn around GHS 2,000 – 2,800 per month, while BSc nurses earn slightly higher depending on rank and years of service.
10. When do nursing schools in Ghana open applications?
Applications usually open between April and July each year.
Conclusion
Finding the cheapest nursing schools in Ghana is possible if you know where to look. Public and mission-based nursing training colleges generally offer the most affordable fees while maintaining high standards of education. Before choosing a school, consider its location, accreditation status, facilities, and the total cost of attendance.
If you are passionate about healthcare and want a secure career, enrolling in one of these affordable nursing schools is a smart first step. Apply early, prepare thoroughly for entrance interviews, and explore financial aid options to make your nursing education as cost-effective as possible.