In Nigeria today, the demand for qualified nurses continues to rise. However, many prospective students are held back by one major obstacle JAMB. Fortunately, not all nursing schools in Nigeria require you to pass the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination. Some accredited institutions allow you to apply directly and begin your journey into the nursing profession.
This article provides a detailed, easy-to-understand guide to the top 10 best school of nursing in Nigeria without JAMB, their tuition fees, admission requirements, and application process. Whether you're a WAEC/NECO holder or seeking a nursing career without UTME, this guide is tailored just for you.
Why Choose a School of Nursing Without JAMB?
There are several good reasons to consider applying to a nursing school that does not require JAMB:
-
Faster Admission Process: Direct entry into the program without the delays of JAMB cut-offs or re-writes.
-
Less Competitive: You’re competing with fewer people compared to university degree programs.
-
More Focused Training: These schools focus strictly on nursing, offering a hands-on and professional environment.
-
Accredited Certification: Upon graduation, you receive a license from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
-
Opportunities Abroad: Graduates of accredited nursing schools are eligible for further studies and work abroad.
Who Can Apply to Nursing Schools Without JAMB?
Most of these nursing schools require the following:
-
Minimum of 5 credits in WAEC, NECO or NABTEB in subjects like English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics (not more than 2 sittings).
-
Age requirement: Between 17 and 35 years old.
-
Physically and mentally fit for clinical work.
-
Willingness to undergo training for at least 3 years.
-
Some schools may conduct entrance exams and interviews before admission.
Top 10 Best School of Nursing in Nigeria Without JAMB and Their Fees
Here is a list of the best schools of nursing that do not require JAMB in Nigeria. These institutions are accredited and produce well-trained, professional nurses.
1. School of Nursing, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan
Overview:
UCH Ibadan is one of Nigeria’s oldest and most reputable nursing schools. It is government-owned and offers strong clinical training and academic instruction.
Location: Ibadan, Oyo State
Fees: ₦150,000 – ₦200,000 per session
Duration: 3 years
Admission Requirements:
-
5 credits in WAEC/NECO
-
Must be at least 17 years
-
Entrance exam and oral interview required
Application: Online or at the school during the admission window
2. Lagos State School of Nursing, Igando
Overview:
Operated by the Lagos State Government, this school is popular for its high standards and affordable training.
Location: Igando, Lagos
Fees: ₦200,000 – ₦250,000 per session
Duration: 3 years
Admission Requirements:
-
Minimum of 5 O’level credits
-
Applicants must pass the school’s entrance test
Application: Online through the Lagos State Ministry of Health portal
3. School of Nursing, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife
Overview:
OAUTHC School of Nursing is one of the most competitive and professionally-run institutions in Nigeria.
Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State
Fees: ₦150,000 – ₦180,000
Duration: 3 years
Admission Requirements:
-
5 credits in relevant subjects
-
Pass entrance exam and interview
Application: Available yearly on the OAUTHC website
4. School of Nursing, Joint Hospital Mbano
Overview:
This Catholic missionary nursing school offers faith-based and clinical nursing education with affordable fees.
Location: Umuduru, Isiala Mbano, Imo State
Fees: ₦120,000 – ₦150,000
Duration: 3 years
Admission Requirements:
-
5 credits including English and Biology
-
Entrance exam required
Application: Apply at the school’s premises or official site
5. School of Nursing, Federal Teaching Hospital Ido-Ekiti (SONFTHI)
Overview:
This school provides both theoretical and practical experience at one of Nigeria’s top federal hospitals.
Location: Ido-Ekiti, Ekiti State
Fees: ₦130,000 – ₦160,000
Duration: 3 years
Admission Requirements:
-
SSCE/GCE/NECO with 5 credits
-
Age: 17+
-
Entrance examination and oral interview
Application: Direct via the school or federal portal
6. School of Nursing, ATBUTH Bauchi
Overview:
A federal institution known for high academic excellence and discipline.
Location: Bauchi State
Fees: ₦120,000 – ₦140,000 per session
Duration: 3 years
Admission Requirements:
-
5 credits in WAEC/NECO/NABTEB
-
Pass school’s screening test
Application: Apply through the official ATBUTH website
7. School of Nursing, University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH)
Overview:
UBTH runs a modern school of nursing with excellent facilities and high placement rates.
Location: Benin City, Edo State
Fees: ₦170,000 – ₦200,000
Duration: 3 years
Admission Requirements:
-
WAEC/NECO with minimum 5 credits
-
Applicants sit for entrance test
Application: Online via UBTH portal
8. School of Nursing, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH)
Overview:
This is a northern-based school producing skilled nurses and midwives annually.
Location: Sokoto State
Fees: ₦100,000 – ₦140,000
Duration: 3 years
Admission Requirements:
-
SSCE/NECO/NABTEB with 5 credits
-
Entrance screening and interview
Application: Application forms are available yearly
9. School of Nursing, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH)
Overview:
One of the most respected medical institutions in the North with competitive admissions.
Location: Zaria, Kaduna State
Fees: ₦120,000 – ₦160,000
Duration: 3 years
Admission Requirements:
-
5 O’level credits
-
Entrance examination required
Application: Online on the ABUTH school website
10. School of Nursing, Bishop Shanahan Hospital Nsukka
Overview:
This Catholic-run private institution is known for its spiritual and academic training.
Location: Nsukka, Enugu State
Fees: ₦130,000 – ₦150,000
Duration: 3 years
Admission Requirements:
-
5 credits including English and Biology
-
Must pass internal screening
Application: Purchase application form at the school or contact their office
Summary Table: Best School of Nursing in Nigeria Without JAMB
| School Name | Location | Tuition Fee (₦) | Duration | JAMB Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UCH School of Nursing | Ibadan | 150k – 200k | 3 Years | No |
| Lagos State SON | Igando | 200k – 250k | 3 Years | No |
| OAUTHC SON | Ile-Ife | 150k – 180k | 3 Years | No |
| SON Joint Hospital | Mbano | 120k – 150k | 3 Years | No |
| SON FTH Ido-Ekiti | Ekiti | 130k – 160k | 3 Years | No |
| SON ATBUTH | Bauchi | 120k – 140k | 3 Years | No |
| SON UBTH | Benin | 170k – 200k | 3 Years | No |
| SON UDUTH | Sokoto | 100k – 140k | 3 Years | No |
| SON ABUTH | Zaria | 120k – 160k | 3 Years | No |
| SON Shanahan Nsukka | Enugu | 130k – 150k | 3 Years | No |
Admission Process for Nursing Schools Without JAMB
-
Check the school’s official admission notice (usually around March–July).
-
Ensure you meet all requirements, including minimum age and subjects.
-
Buy the application form either online or in person.
-
Prepare for the entrance exam, covering topics like Biology, Chemistry, English, and Physics.
-
Attend oral interviews if shortlisted.
-
If accepted, complete registration and prepare for resumption.
FAQs: Best Nursing Schools in Nigeria Without JAMB
1. Can I apply for a school of nursing without JAMB in Nigeria?
Yes, many accredited schools offer direct admission without JAMB.
2. Are these schools accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN)?
Yes, all schools listed above are NMCN-approved.
3. What is the age limit for nursing school in Nigeria?
Most schools accept students between 17 and 35 years old.
4. How long is the training at school of nursing?
The standard duration is 3 years of full-time study.
5. Is the certificate from a school of nursing recognized abroad?
Yes, with additional certifications or exams, graduates can work or study abroad.
6. When does admission start for nursing schools in Nigeria?
Admissions generally open between March and July every year.
7. What is the difference between a school of nursing and studying nursing at university?
School of Nursing awards a professional diploma, while universities offer a B.Sc. in Nursing.
8. Can I work while attending nursing school?
Most programs are full-time and rigorous; part-time work may not be feasible.
9. Are there accommodation facilities in these schools?
Yes, most offer hostel accommodation at extra fees.
10. Do I need to write any entrance exam for these schools?
Yes, all require an internal entrance exam, even without JAMB.
Conclusion
Attending a school of nursing in Nigeria without JAMB is one of the smartest paths for students who want to become professional nurses without facing the stress of university admission processes. These schools offer quality, accredited training and prepare you for rewarding careers both locally and abroad.
If you're serious about nursing, pick one of these top 10 institutions, meet their requirements, and apply early. Nursing is not just a job—it’s a respected profession with purpose, dignity, and opportunity.
Stay informed, prepare well, and take your first step towards becoming a nurse in Nigeria — no JAMB required.