Becoming a qualified nurse in Nigeria starts with gaining admission into a recognized nursing school. However, many prospective candidates are unsure about the requirements, qualifications, and steps involved in applying for nursing programmes in Nigeria.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explain the nursing school admission requirements in Nigeria for 2025, including O’level subject combinations, age limit, entrance exams, required documents, and more.
Whether you want to study nursing through a School of Nursing, a College of Nursing Sciences, or a University degree in Nursing (BNSc), this article will help you understand the requirements clearly and prepare for success.
Summary of Key Admission Requirements for Nursing in Nigeria (2025)
| Requirement Type | Minimum Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| O’level Subjects | 5 credits in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics | Must be in WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB (maximum 2 sittings) |
| Age Limit | Minimum age is 17 years | Required by most Schools and Nursing Councils |
| JAMB Requirement | Required for BNSc, Not required for Schools of Nursing | Depends on the institution type |
| Entrance Examination | Yes (for all Schools of Nursing) | Often includes English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics |
| Mode of Application | Online or Manual | Through school portals or official sales outlets |
| Medical Fitness | Mandatory | Applicants must pass a physical and mental test |
| Certificate Type Awarded | RN, RM, BNSc | Depending on the type of institution |
| Interview Screening | Yes (after entrance exam) | Includes oral interview and credentials check |
| Passport Photograph | Yes (usually 2–4 copies) | For identification and application forms |
| Application Fee | ₦5,000 – ₦15,000 | Varies by school |
What Are the Nursing Admission Requirements in Nigeria?
1. O’Level Requirements for Nursing Admission
One of the most important requirements for nursing admission in Nigeria is your O’level result.
Required Subjects:
To study nursing, candidates must have at least five (5) credit passes in the following core subjects:
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English Language
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Mathematics
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Physics
Accepted Exam Bodies:
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WAEC
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NECO
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NABTEB (accepted in many nursing schools but not always for university admission)
Sitting Limit:
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A maximum of two sittings is allowed. Some schools prefer one sitting only, especially top-ranking ones.
2. JAMB Requirement for Nursing Schools in Nigeria
When Is JAMB Required?
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JAMB is required for admission into universities offering Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc).
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JAMB is NOT required for admission into most Schools of Nursing and Colleges of Nursing Sciences.
JAMB Subject Combination for Nursing:
If you're applying through JAMB for a university BNSc program, your subject combination should include:
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English Language (compulsory)
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Physics
3. Age Requirement for Admission into Nursing School
Most nursing schools in Nigeria require candidates to:
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Be at least 17 years old at the time of application.
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Some schools may require age declaration or birth certificate to verify your age.
4. Entrance Examination for Nursing Schools
Every school of nursing conducts a written entrance examination, which usually tests candidates on:
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English Language
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Physics
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General knowledge (sometimes)
Preparing thoroughly for this entrance exam increases your chances of admission.
5. Interview Screening After Exams
If you pass the entrance examination, you will be invited for an oral interview or screening. This typically includes:
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Verification of academic credentials
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Oral questions (personal motivation, general awareness)
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Health fitness interview or test
6. Medical Fitness Requirements
Because nursing is a physically and mentally demanding career, many schools require a medical fitness report from a recognized hospital. This report will assess:
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Your mental health
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Physical stamina
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Absence of infectious diseases
7. Mode of Application
Online Application:
Some nursing schools allow online registration via their official websites. Candidates are to:
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Fill in bio-data
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Upload documents
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Make payment online
Manual Application:
Other schools may require you to:
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Purchase forms physically
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Submit at designated locations
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Attend in-person verification
Always follow the school’s official announcement or portal instructions.
8. Documents Required for Nursing Admission in Nigeria
Applicants should have the following ready:
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WAEC/NECO/NABTEB certificate or printout
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Birth certificate or declaration of age
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Local government identification letter
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Medical fitness report
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Passport photographs (2 to 4 copies)
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Application payment receipt
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Primary school leaving certificate (some schools may request this)
9. Nursing School Duration in Nigeria
The duration of study depends on the type of nursing programme:
| Type of Institution | Duration |
|---|---|
| School of Nursing | 3 years |
| College of Nursing (ND + HND) | 5 years total |
| University (BNSc) | 5 years |
After completion, students must also undergo one year of mandatory internship and NYSC (if applicable).
10. Types of Certificates Awarded in Nursing Programmes
| Programme Type | Certificate Awarded |
|---|---|
| School of Nursing | Registered Nurse (RN) |
| School of Midwifery | Registered Midwife (RM) |
| College of Nursing ND/HND | RN, RM, and/or Public Health certs |
| University BNSc | Bachelor of Nursing Science + RN |
11. Nursing School Application Fees
Most application forms cost between ₦5,000 and ₦15,000. Prices vary based on:
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Location of the institution
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Type (private, state, or federal)
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Number of applicants competing for space
12. Accreditation and Recognition
Always confirm that your chosen nursing school is:
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Accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN)
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Recognized by relevant state or federal ministries of education
Graduating from an unaccredited school can affect your license eligibility and job opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I enter nursing school without JAMB in Nigeria?
Yes, most Schools of Nursing and Colleges of Nursing in Nigeria do not require JAMB. Only universities offering BNSc need JAMB.
2. What is the minimum O’level requirement for nursing?
Five (5) credit passes in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
3. What is the age limit for applying to nursing schools?
Applicants must be at least 17 years old before admission.
4. Can I use NABTEB for nursing school admission?
Yes, most Schools of Nursing accept NABTEB, but not all universities do.
5. Do all nursing schools require an entrance exam?
Yes, all nursing schools conduct an entrance examination before admission.
6. What is the duration of nursing training in Nigeria?
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Schools of Nursing: 3 years
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BNSc (University): 5 years
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ND/HND Nursing Colleges: 5 years total
7. Is there an interview after the entrance exam?
Yes, most schools invite successful candidates for an interview before final admission.
8. Do I need a medical test before being admitted?
Yes, candidates must present a medical fitness certificate from a certified hospital.
9. Are there scholarships available for nursing students?
Some federal and state governments offer scholarships, especially in public schools. NGOs may also support indigent students.
10. Can I combine WAEC and NECO results for nursing admission?
Yes, most schools allow combined results from WAEC and NECO for O’level.
Conclusion
Understanding the nursing school admission requirements in Nigeria is crucial if you want to start a successful nursing career. In 2025, candidates must meet the minimum O’level subject requirements, pass an entrance exam, and fulfill all age and documentation criteria.
Whether you choose a School of Nursing, College of Nursing, or university degree in Nursing, ensure the institution is accredited and meets your career goals.
If you’re planning to apply, start preparing your documents early and stay updated with application dates and screening announcements from your chosen institution.