Cut Off Mark For Nursing For All Schools In Nigeria 2025/2026

The cut off mark for nursing is simply the lowest score you must have in your JAMB exam if you’re going for a nursing course in Nigeria. You must get this score if you want to be admitted into a nursing program in one of the universities, colleges of nursing, or schools of nursing in Nigeria.

Cut Off Mark for Nursing for All Universities and Colleges in Nigeria 2025/2026

Below is a very detailed breakdown of the cut off mark for nursing for all schools in the 2025/2026 academic session. These marks are based on the updated information by JAMB and direct confirmation by admission offices.

Cut Off Mark For Nursing In Federal Universities

Cut Off mark For Nursing In State Universities

Cut Off Mark For Nursing In Private Universities

Schools/colleges Of Nursing (ND/HND Programs)

These are not really universities, but they still offer nursing diplomas that are accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).

What If You Don’t Meet the Cut Off Mark?

Not everybody is going to get 250 or 260. And that is all right.

This is what you can do when your JAMB score is below the cutoff mark in nursing:

1. Apply to a school that has low cutoff marks:Some have as low as 180.

2. Enroll in a school of nursing rather than at a university: They are less burdensome and have direct training.

3. Take a pre-degree course or JUPEB: This is also another way of entering nursing on direct entry.

4. Consider a second course in a health-related discipline:You can change it later or use it as the bridge.

5. Wait and try again next year: Then with more preparation you can make the hit.

Smart Tips to Beat the Cut Off Mark

Suppose you have not yet advanced to SS3 or you want to write JAMB the following year. Here is how to take a step forward:

1. Start earlier: Nursing cut-off marks never favor late starters.

2. Keep within the JAMB syllabus: Do not take anything extra. Focus on the things that count.

3. Study CBT frequently: Time and speed are important in JAMB.

4. Do not forget about post-UTME: some universities take it seriously.

5. Make sure to aim beyond the cutoff: In case the cut off mark is 250, then aim to work on 270 and beyond. It cushions you.

Does the Cut Off Mark Change Every Year?

Yes, it does.

Why?

It is affected by the number of applicants, how they perform, and policy change. As an example, in 2023, most federal institutions increased their cut off mark due to the high number of top-scoring candidates willing to take up nursing.

That is why you should not think that the score that was set last year has not changed. New marks are issued every year and need to be checked.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will I be able to study nursing without biology at the O level?

No. Nursing requires biology. You should have credit in biology, chemistry, English, and mathematics.

2. Is nursing a 5-year course in Nigeria?

Yes. Nursing in universities requires 5 years, which includes clinical and internship rotations.

3. Is it possible to change to a different course from nursing?

Other schools make interdepartmental transfers, and this is not simple. You should have the full nursing qualifications.

4. How is B.Sc. Nursing different to RN (Registered Nurse)?

B.Sc. Nursing is an undergraduate degree in a university. RN is a school of nursing diploma. Both are acceptable, and the holders of a B.Sc. could have additional career opportunities.

5. Do nursing schools write JAMB?

The majority of them do not. They also admit through their entrance examinations and interviews.

6. Is working in a foreign country with a Nigerian nursing degree possible?

Yes, provided you successfully pass the necessary exams to certify you in foreign licensing, e.g., NCLEX or CBT/OSCE (UK).

7. Does Nigeria permit men to nurse?

Yes. Men are in a position to know and study nursing. There is no gender limitation.

Conclusion

It is strategy and not luck that drives the journey of being a nurse in Nigeria. And knowing the cut off mark for nursing in the schools you are applying to is how that strategy starts.

Do not generalize that all schools are the same. Others need 260. Some need 180. You need to make smart choices and prepare smartly in order to win.

One thing you should remember after reading this post:

The cut off mark for nursing is more than a figure. It is your best asset. Know it. Beat it. And make it work in your favor.

Wish you luck.