Admission Requirements for Nursing (UTME & Direct Entry) [updated]

Admission Requirements for Nursing

This article will show you the admission requirements for nursing in Nigeria.

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This app helps students achieve great scores in the  JAMB exams. The app consists of incredible features, such as mock mode, study mode, and practice mode. Also, the app gives answers and explanations to every question you come across in the app.

You need to know the  admission requirements for Nursing , if

• you want to be a Nurse in Nigeria.
• you want to study Nursing at a Nigerian university.
• you want to help people with quality healthcare.
• you want to make a mark in the healthcare world.
• You are Fascinated with the health of humans,

What is Nursing

Nursing is a healthcare profession that focuses on the care and support of individuals, families, and communities to achieve and maintain optimal health and well-being.

Nurses work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, community health organisation, and private practices, to provide hands-on care, education, and advocacy to patients.

But before you can change lives as a nurse, you first need to get admission into nursing, you need to meet the admission requirements.

This blog post provides a comprehensive guide on the admission requirements for Nursing programs through both UTME and Direct Entry.

In Nigeria, gaining admission to a Nursing program is highly competitive and requires hard-work and commitment.

Nursing in University  vs School of Nursing

Nursing is a health science course found in the college of health science in many universities.

If you plan to work as a nurse in Nigeria, a school of nursing will prepare you to work locally. If you have any desire to move to another country, a university degree in nursing will give you more opportunities. It depends on your specific situation and goals.

Nursing is gradually becoming one of the most lucrative professions in Nigeria. In addition, the courses can provide many outstanding opportunities for professionals both at home and abroad.

Here’s a table summarising the key differences between University degree and Nursing school Diploma:

To know more about admission requirements for school of nursing, click here

Admission Requirements for Nursing

General Admission Requirements for Nursing

you must meet the admission requirements for you to be admitted.

1. you must be at least 16 years old at the time of admission.
2. Completed Secondary School Education.
3.  Have a valid means of identification (NIN).
4. Posses any of these O’Level certificate:

• • West African Examination Council (WAEC),
  • National Examination Council (NECO)
  • National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB)

JAMB Subject Combination For Nursing

For the UTME exams, you’ll need to select the following subjects:

• English Language
• Biology
• Physics
• Chemistry

Use Exam Scholars App to prepare for JAMB if you want to score high

JAMB Cut-Off Mark:

The general JAMB cut-off mark for all courses, typically ranging between 140 – 200.

However, for a competitive course like Medicine and Surgery, achieving the minimum cut-off will not guarantee admission.

In most cases, a significantly higher score (often exceeding 250) is necessary to be considered for the next stage.

Use Exam Scholars App to prepare for JAMB if you want to score high.

O’Level Admission Requirements for Nursing

You need 5 O Level credit passes in the following subjects:

• English language,
• Mathematics,
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology

Direct Entry Admission Requirements for Nursing

Direct Entry (DE)candidates must be

1. Registered Nurses (RN) with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.
2. Candidates holding the Advanced level General Certificate of Education (GCE) with passes in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, in not more than two sittings are also eligible to apply.
3. Such candidates are expected to have satisfied the O’ level requirements of five credit passes in at least five subjects including English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Physics and Chemistry in not more than two sittings and passed the university screening test.
4. First degree holders in health related disciplines are also eligible to apply.
5. DE candidates admitted into the four year programme may be required, where applicable, to take specified courses to make up for deficiencies found in their academic background.
6. Candidates with GCE Advanced level certificate must also have appropriate pass in the screening test of the university.
7. Degree holders in science disciplines with not less than 2nd Class Honours may be admitted through direct entry.

Direct Entry students will be placed at 200 level of study.

The non-nursing qualified direct entry students will be expected to sit for at least 2 professional examinations like UTME candidates. Already trained nurses can sit for the professional examination not already possessed.

Departmental cutoff mark  for  Nursing

The departmental cutoff mark for Nursing varies according to the university, for private university 200+ is enough for admission.

Due to the high population of students applying for Nursing in public universities, the cutoff mark for  is 250+. The higher you score, the more your chances of admission.

Nursing Study Duration

Nursing is typically offered as a 5 -year bachelor’s degree program to get B.NSc in numerous universities across Nigeria.

Nursing Post ume

If you meet the JAMB UTME requirements and score competitively, you’ll be invited to participate in  Post-UTME Screening Exercise which might be a CBT screening test or a simple screening exam with O’Level result.

• CBT Screening Test:

The test typically focuses on the same subject combination taken in JAMB UTME: English Language, Medicine and Surgery, Mathematics, and another relevant social science subject.

• Screening Cut-Off Mark:

There’s no official published cut-off mark for the  post-UTME screening test specifically for Medicine and Surgery. However, scoring well (often exceeding the JAMB UTME score) is crucial to increase your chances of securing a place in the program.

Preparing for Admission in Nursing

Understanding the requirements is just the first step. Here are some tips to bolster your application:

1. Start Early: Begin preparing for entrance exams early in your secondary school education. Build a strong foundation in Medicine and Surgery, Mathematics, and other relevant subjects.
2. Focus on Your exam: Utilise textbooks, online resources, and past JAMB UTME and   post-UTME question papers for practice.
3. JAMB & Post-UTME preparation: Consider enrolling in JAMB UTME and   post-UTME coaching classes offered by reputable institutions.
4. Stay Updated: Regularly check this website  for the latest updates on admission requirements, deadlines, and application procedures.

Choosing a the Right University 

With numerous universities offering Nursing programs in Nigeria, choosing the right one is crucial. Here are some tips for your research:

1. Check Admission Requirements: Admission requirements for Nursing might vary slightly between universities. Carefully review the specific requirements of your preferred institutions.
2. Mind your score: Choose a school where your chances of admission are higher with your score.
3. Faculty & Facilities: Research the faculty expertise and available resources ( labs) to ensure they align with your interests and learning style.
4. Location & Cost: Consider the university’s location, accommodation options, and tuition fees to make an informed decision.

Conclusion

Meeting the admission requirements for Nursing is simple but requires dedication and preparation.

Remember, dedication, a strong foundation in relevant subjects, and focused preparation will increase your chances of success.

By understanding the UTME and Direct Entry requirements, create strategies for the JAMB UTME and post-UTME screening, you’ll be well on your way to a rewarding career in the exciting world of Medicine and Surgery.

Remember, research the university thoroughly, make sure this course aligns with your aspirations, and don’t hesitate to reach out to university admissions offices for further clarification.

Also check this blog for more current news and info about  .

Related Posts:

1. Nursing programs in Nigeria
2. List of universities offering nursing in Nigeria.
3. Admission requirements for school of nursing and midwifery in Nigeria
4. List of school of nursing and midwifery in Nigeria
5. Check for current updates

Gaining admission into Nursing department is a competitive but achievable goal.