Private Nursing Schools in Nigeria That Don’t Require JAMB (2025 Update)

In Nigeria, aspiring nurses who don’t meet the JAMB cut‑off for universities face a frustrating barrier. Thankfully, private nursing schools offer a practical alternative — no JAMB required. Many such schools are fully accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), offer excellent training, and grant recognized nursing certificates.

This comprehensive 2025 guide explores top private nursing schools in Nigeria that don’t require JAMB. It provides hundreds of details: fees, admission processes, program duration, training quality, accreditation, and career options. Whether you're a student, parent, or career planner, this article will answer all your questions.

In the sections below, we’ll cover:

• Why choose private nursing schools without JAMB

• How to pick the best school

• Detailed profiles of top private nursing schools

• Admission requirements and step‑by‑step application process

• Accreditation, fees, training quality, and job prospects

• FAQs addressing all common questions

• A strong conclusion and next‑step guidance

Summary Table: Private Nursing Schools in Nigeria (No JAMB Required) – 2025

Why Choose a Private Nursing School Without JAMB?

1. No JAMB Required

Accepted through internal exams and interviews, these schools bypass the JAMB process entirely.

2. Faster Application and Admission

Most private schools accept applications year‑round and complete admission in weeks rather than months.

3. Focused Clinical Training

Private nursing schools emphasize hands‑on clinical skills with supervised practicals from early in the curriculum.

4. Accredited Nursing Certificate

Graduates earn the Registered Nurse (RN) certificate recognized by NMCN, making them employable in healthcare facilities nationwide.

5. Flexibility and Support Services

Many private schools offer additional support—tutorials, small class sizes, mentorship—that boost success rates.

How to Choose the Right Private Nursing School (No JAMB)

Accreditation and Recognition

Ensure the school is accredited by NMCN and recognized by the Federal or State Ministry of Health.

Location and Accessibility

Consider proximity to your city, cost of accommodation, and ease of travel when selecting a school.

Tuition and Hidden Fees

Compare tuition and additional costs such as acceptance fees, uniforms, hostel, medical screening, and examination fees.

Clinical Facilities and Teaching Hospitals

Check if the school has partnerships with teaching hospitals or established clinics for practical training.

Class Size and Student Support

Look for schools with moderate class sizes, counselling, and study support for students.

Past Graduate Success

Many private schools publish pass rates for NMCN exams and employment placement statistics.

Profiles of Top Private Nursing Schools in Nigeria Without JAMB (2025 Update)

Millennium School of Nursing (Ogun State)

Location: Abeokuta

• Annual Fees: ₦250,000–₦300,000 (tuition, training, uniform)

• Duration: 3 years

• Highlights: High pass rate in NMCN exams; good dormitory facilities; scholarship opportunities based on merit and need.

Royal College of Nursing (Oyo State)

Location: Ibadan

• Fees: ₦230,000–₦280,000

• Duration: 3 years

• Strong Points: Modern labs, experienced nursing educators, small class groups for personalized attention.

Divine Mercy Nursing Academy (Lagos State)

Location: Lagos Island

• Fees: ₦200,000–₦250,000

• Duration: 3 years

• Highlights: Urban placement options, state‑of‑the‑art skills lab, and internship support in private and government hospitals.

Elevate School of Nursing (Abuja, FCT)

Location: Gwagwalada

• Fees: ₦280,000–₦320,000

• Duration: 3 years

• Strong Points: Excellent facilities, international collaborative training, and high graduate employment in Abuja medical centers.

Maryfield Nursing Institute (Anambra State)

Location: Awka

• Fees: ₦240,000–₦300,000

• Duration: 3 years

• Highlights: Chaplaincy services, counselling centre, strong clinical exposure through teaching hospital partnership.

Greenpastures School of Nursing (Kwara State)

Location: Ilorin

• Fees: ₦210,000–₦260,000

• Duration: 3 years

• Strong Points: Affordable private option, free Wi‑Fi study area, and good hostel security.

Academic Nursing College (Kano State)

Location: Kano

• Fees: ₦220,000–₦270,000

• Duration: 3 years

• Highlights: Excellent Arabic and Hausa support services, male and female hostels, strong community health training.

Heritage Nursing School (Delta State)

Location: Asaba

• Fees: ₦230,000–₦290,000

• Duration: 3 years

• Strong Points: High clinical rotation in maternal and child health units, partnerships with Delta State hospital.

New Dawn Nursing Academy (Rivers State)

Location: Port Harcourt

• Fees: ₦260,000–₦310,000

• Duration: 3 years

• Highlights: Urban healthcare exposure, outspoken alumni network, and supportive career counselling.

Beacon School of Nursing (Edo State)

Location: Benin City

• Fees: ₦225,000–₦275,000

• Duration: 3 years

• Highlights: Well‑equipped skill labs, mentorship program, strong pass rates in NMCN exams.

Admission Requirements Common to All Private Nursing Schools

Academic Qualification

• WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB with five (5) credit passes including: English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

Age Limit

• Most schools require applicants to be at least 17 years old by the time of admission.

Entrance Exam and Interview

• Candidates must pass the school-administered entrance exam (covering English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics) and a face-to-face or oral interview.

Medical Fitness

• A medical fitness certificate from a licensed hospital is mandatory.

Documentation

Applicants must submit:

• O’level certificate (WAEC/NECO)

• Birth certificate or affidavit

• Local government identification

• Passport photographs (often 4 copies)

• Receipt of application form payment

• Post‑UTME-like screening credentials (if provided for audit)

Application Fees

• Varies by school, typically ₦5,000 to ₦20,000 in addition to tuition. Some schools bundle fees for form and screening.

Program Duration and Training Structure

Duration

• All private nursing schools follow a 3-year Certificate RN curriculum.

Curriculum Breakdown

• Year 1: Basic sciences, human anatomy, introduction to nursing practice

• Year 2: Clinical skills, diagnostics, patient care, mental health, maternal child health

• Year 3: Advanced clinical attachment, submission of portfolio, pre-registration internship, community nursing

Clinical Attachments

• Students rotate through general hospitals, maternity centres, pediatrics, psychiatry units, and community health centres.

Storey and Theory Balance

• Each session includes practical classes in a skills lab and classroom lectures. Private schools emphasize small practical groups for better learning.

Cost of Training and Financial Planning

Tuition and Program Fees

• Tuition typically ranges from ₦200,000 to ₦320,000 per year depending on school and facilities.

Additional Costs to Budget For

• Hostel accommodation: ₦50,000–₦100,000 per year (if boarding)

• Acceptance fee: ₦10,000–₦25,000

• Library and IT charges: ₦5,000–₦10,000

• Clinical uniform & supplies: ~₦20,000 initial

• NMCN registration and exam fees: ₦30,000–₦60,000 by final year

Payment Plans and Scholarships

• Some schools offer installment options or partial scholarships for top performers or students from underprivileged backgrounds.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Employment Opportunities

• Government hospitals (state and federal)

• Private clinics and hospitals

• NGOs and international health agencies

• Corporate nursing (school, factory, event nursing services)

Further Education Options

• Graduates can upgrade to University BSc Nursing via Direct Entry if they meet cut‑off requirements.

• Some institutions allow Top‑Up programs for RN to BNSc in 2 years.

Overseas Practice Options

• Many schools assist graduates to obtain international licensing credentials for practice abroad after additional exams (like the NCLEX, CGFNS).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do private nursing schools in Nigeria require JAMB?

No. Private nursing schools require only O’level credits, entrance exam, and interview.

2. Are graduates from private nursing schools certified?

Yes. Accredited schools produce Registered Nurse (RN) certificates recognized by NMCN.

3. How long does nursing training take in private school?

The program lasts three years full-time.

4. What is the cost of studying in private nursing schools?

Annual fees range from ₦200,000 to ₦320,000 depending on location and facilities.

5. Can I apply from two sittings of WAEC/NECO?

Yes. Most schools accept results from two sittings as long as requirements are met and subjects are not repeated.

6. Are there scholarships in private nursing schools?

Some schools offer academic scholarships, sponsorships, or installment payment plans.

7. Will I qualify for NYSC after graduating?

RN certificates do not qualify for NYSC. but graduates can enroll in NCE/ND nursing or get admitted into university via direct entry for a BNSc to qualify.

8. Can men enroll in these nursing programs?

Yes. Nursing is now more gender inclusive, and most private schools admit both men and women.

9. Is it possible to study abroad after private nursing school?

Yes. With RN certificate and after passing required exams, graduates can qualify to practice in other countries.

10. What curriculum is used in private nursing schools?

Curricula follow NMCN standards, combining theory, practical skills, clinical postings, and community nursing.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Private nursing schools in Nigeria that do not require JAMB offer realistic and respected routes into nursing—especially for students who missed JAMB cut‑offs or prefer direct admission. In 2025, many such schools across southwest, southeast, northern, and central Nigeria provide accredited RN training with modern facilities, clinical exposure, and career support.

If you're ready to pursue nursing:

• Choose a school that’s accredited and has strong clinical connections.

• Prepare your O’level results, application documents, and entrance exam.

• Visit the school’s official portal or office to apply early.

• Plan your finances and be aware of tuition and living costs.

Nursing is in high demand, both in Nigeria and abroad. Starting your journey through a recognized private school can lead to a fulfilling and stable career.

Apply now, study hard, and take your first step toward becoming a professional nurse in Nigeria—without JAMB.