25. March 2026
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JAMB Subject Requirements for Nursing 2026/2027 (Admission Guidelines)
For the 2026/2027 academic session in Nigeria, Nursing remains one of the most competitive courses. Admission is generally split into two categories: **University Degree (BNSc)** and **Colleges of Nursing Sciences (ND/HND or Basic Nursing)**.
The official departmental cut-off marks for 2026 are typically finalized after JAMB UTME results, but based on current trends and early 2026 data, here are the expected benchmarks.
Quick Insight: Nursing programs require high UTME scores, strong science performance, and O'Level credits. Federal universities often have more competitive cut-offs compared to state and private institutions.
1. Core Requirements for 2026
Candidates must satisfy both **O'Level** and **UTME** criteria:
- JAMB Subject Combination: English Language, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- O'Level Subjects: At least 5 Credits in English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (at no more than two sittings). Some top schools like UNILORIN and UI strictly require all 5 credits in one sitting.
- Age Limit: Most schools require candidates to be at least 16–17 years old by the time of admission.
2. Key Tips for Admission
- Choice of Institution: Ensure you select your College of Nursing or University as your first choice in JAMB to be eligible for Post-UTME.
- UTME Preparation: Nursing is highly competitive; aim for the recommended cut-offs for your chosen institution.
- Alternative Entry: Direct Entry (DE) options exist for RN certificate holders or 'A' Level graduates.
- Hospital-Based Schools: Some schools bypass JAMB and conduct their own exams and interviews.
3. Important Dates for 2026/2027
- JAMB UTME: Usually held between March and April 2026.
- University Post-UTME: Typically begins from July/August 2026.
- College of Nursing Forms: Many schools (like OYSCONME and Standard College, Minna) open portals or begin sales between March and July 2026.
4. Top Universities (BNSc Nursing Science)
Even if the general school cut-off is 180–200, Nursing often requires 240+ for Post-UTME.
| Institution Type |
Example Schools |
Recommended JAMB Score |
| Federal Universities |
UNILAG, UI, UNILORIN, OAU, UNN, ABU |
250 – 280+ |
| State Universities |
LASU, EKSU, LAUTECH, IMSU, DELSU |
220 – 240+ |
| Private Universities |
Babcock, Afe Babalola (ABUAD), Bowen |
180 – 200+ |
5. Colleges of Nursing Sciences (ND/HND & Basic)
Many Colleges of Nursing in Nigeria have transitioned to the ND/HND program, which now requires JAMB, while others still conduct independent entrance exams.
| School Name |
Location |
2026 Status / Cut-off |
| Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) |
Lagos |
200+ (JAMB required) |
| UBTH College of Nursing |
Edo |
180 – 200 (JAMB required) |
| Oyo State College of Nursing (OYSCONME) |
Oyo |
180 – 200 (JAMB required) |
| Adamu Adamu College of Nursing |
Bauchi |
150 (JAMB required) |
| Mater Misericordiae College of Nursing |
Ebonyi |
140+ (JAMB required) |
| Achievers College of Nursing |
Ondo |
150 (Screening based) |
| Sudawa College of Nursing |
Kano |
120 (Screening based) |
| Jafad College of Nursing |
Ogun |
100 (Screening based) |
Final Thoughts
Nursing admission in 2026/2027 is competitive across federal, state, and private institutions. Candidates should aim for strong UTME scores, meet core O'Level requirements, and explore all possible entry routes. Colleges of Nursing may provide opportunities for candidates with moderate JAMB scores (150–200), making them an excellent alternative to federal universities.
Tip: If your JAMB score is between 150 and 190, focus on applying to Colleges of Nursing Sciences. For scores above 220, you can target competitive Federal and State universities.
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