Nursing Science is one of the most competitive and in-demand courses in Nigerian universities. With growing healthcare needs both locally and internationally, thousands of JAMB candidates compete for limited admission slots each year. If you are planning to study nursing, understanding the JAMB cut off mark for nursing 2026 in Nigeria is your essential first step toward securing admission for the 2026/2027 academic session.
While JAMB sets a general minimum score of 140 for colleges of nursing and 150 for universities, the actual cut-off for Nursing Science at most institutions ranges from 180 to 280. This comprehensive guide breaks down the JAMB cut off mark for nursing 2026 in Nigeria for individual universities, explains O’Level requirements, and shares practical strategies to help you secure your spot in nursing school.
Whether you aim for a top federal university or a more accessible private institution, this article gives you everything you need to plan your nursing admission journey effectively.
Understanding the Nursing Cut-Off Mark System
The JAMB cut off mark for nursing 2026 in Nigeria refers to the minimum UTME score you need to qualify for post-UTME screening at a university offering Nursing Science. However, this score alone does not guarantee admission.
Nigerian universities use an aggregate system that combines your JAMB score, post-UTME performance, and O’Level grades to rank candidates. The cut-off determines whether you are eligible to sit for the screening exam. Scoring below the cut-off automatically disqualifies you from the admission process. Because Nursing is a professional health course with limited accredited slots, competition is intense and departmental cut-offs often exceed the general institutional minimum by a wide margin.
Federal Universities: Nursing Cut-Off Marks
Federal universities attract the most applicants and set the highest nursing cut-offs. Below is a detailed table showing the JAMB cut off mark for nursing 2026 in Nigeria at major federal institutions.
| S/N | Federal University | Cut-Off Mark | Competition Level |
| 1 | University of Lagos (UNILAG) | 270–280 | Extremely High |
| 2 | University of Ibadan (UI) | 270–280 | Extremely High |
| 3 | Obafemi Awolowo Univ. (OAU) | 260–270 | Very High |
| 4 | Univ. of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) | 250–260 | Very High |
| 5 | Univ. of Benin (UNIBEN) | 240–250 | High |
| 6 | Univ. of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) | 230–250 | High |
| 7 | Univ. of Calabar (UNICAL) | 230–240 | Moderate–High |
| 8 | Univ. of Ilorin (UNILORIN) | 230–250 | High |
| 9 | Univ. of Abuja (UNIABUJA) | 230 | Moderate–High |
| 10 | Ahmadu Bello Univ. (ABU) | 220–240 | Moderate–High |
| 11 | Bayero Univ. Kano (BUK) | 200–220 | Moderate |
| 12 | Univ. of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) | 180–200 | Moderate |
At top-tier institutions like UNILAG and UI, admitted nursing candidates typically score 270 to 300 in JAMB combined with 70+ in post-UTME. At less competitive federal universities like UNIMAID and BUK, scores of 200 and above give you a strong chance.
State Universities: Nursing Cut-Off Marks
State universities offer slightly more accessible nursing cut-offs. Below are institutions and their expected JAMB cut off mark for nursing 2026 in Nigeria.
| S/N | State University | Cut-Off Mark | Competition Level |
| 1 | Lagos State Univ. (LASU) | 240–260 | High |
| 2 | Ambrose Alli Univ. (AAU) | 200–230 | Moderate |
| 3 | Delta State Univ. (DELSU) | 200–220 | Moderate |
| 4 | Enugu State Univ. (ESUT) | 200–220 | Moderate |
| 5 | Ekiti State Univ. (EKSU) | 200–220 | Moderate |
| 6 | Imo State Univ. (IMSU) | 200–220 | Moderate |
| 7 | Ebonyi State Univ. (EBSU) | 180–200 | Low–Moderate |
State universities often reserve admission slots for candidates from their home state, giving indigenes a significant advantage. If your state has a university offering Nursing Science, applying there can improve your chances considerably.
Private Universities: Nursing Cut-Off Marks
Private universities provide the most accessible route for students reviewing the JAMB cut off mark for nursing 2026 in Nigeria. Most private institutions accept JAMB scores of 150 to 200 for Nursing.
| S/N | Private University | Cut-Off | Competition | Estimated Fees |
| 1 | Babcock University | 180–200 | Low–Mod | ₦1.5M – ₦2.5M |
| 2 | Afe Babalola Univ. (ABUAD) | 180–200 | Low–Mod | ₦1.2M – ₦2M |
| 3 | Bowen University | 180–200 | Low–Mod | ₦1M – ₦1.8M |
| 4 | Madonna University | 150–180 | Low | ₦500K – ₦1.2M |
| 5 | Igbinedion University | 150–180 | Low | ₦800K – ₦1.5M |
| 6 | Nile University | 180–200 | Low–Mod | ₦1M – ₦2M |
Private universities offer stable academic calendars, no ASUU strike disruptions, smaller class sizes, and faster graduation. Madonna and Igbinedion accept scores as low as 150, making them ideal for candidates who scored below 200 in JAMB. The trade-off is higher tuition, ranging from ₦500,000 to over ₦2.5 million per session.
JAMB Subjects and O’Level Requirements
Beyond knowing the JAMB cut off mark for nursing 2026 in Nigeria, you must register with the correct JAMB subjects and meet strict O’Level requirements.
The approved JAMB subject combination for Nursing Science is English Language, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. No substitutions are accepted at any university.
For O’Level, you need five credits at not more than two sittings in the following subjects:
- English Language: Compulsory at all universities.
- Mathematics: Required by all nursing programmes.
- Biology: Core science subject for nursing.
- Chemistry: Essential for pharmaceutical and clinical studies.
- Physics: Required by most universities, though a few accept it at a pass level.
Candidates with all five credits at one sitting enjoy a competitive advantage. Grades of A1 to B3 in the science subjects contribute higher aggregate points during the admission process.
Colleges of Nursing vs. University Nursing Programmes
When exploring the JAMB cut off mark for nursing 2026 in Nigeria, it is important to understand the difference between university nursing programmes and standalone colleges of nursing.
Universities award a Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.N.Sc.) degree after five years. This degree qualifies you for registration as a Registered Nurse (RN) and opens doors to advanced practice, specialization, and international nursing opportunities. The JAMB minimum for university nursing is 150–200, depending on the institution.
Colleges of nursing award a Registered Nurse (RN) certificate after three years of training. JAMB sets a lower minimum of 140 for colleges of nursing, and some colleges only require you to have registered for JAMB without a specific cut-off score. These programmes are ideal for candidates who want to start nursing practice quickly, though a B.N.Sc. offers more career advancement opportunities in the long run.
How to Secure Nursing Admission
Knowing the JAMB cut off mark for nursing 2026 in Nigeria is only the starting point. These strategies maximize your chances:
- Score 20–50 Points Above the Cut-Off: If your university’s nursing cut-off is 230, aim for 260–280 to ensure you are competitive in the aggregate ranking.
- Excel in Post-UTME Screening: Practice with past questions from your specific university. Post-UTME performance often carries 40–50% of your aggregate score.
- Choose Your University Wisely: If your JAMB score is between 180 and 230, target UNIMAID, BUK, EBSU, AAU, or private universities. Avoid UNILAG and UI unless you scored 270+.
- Leverage Catchment Area Advantage: Federal universities reserve slots for catchment area students. Apply to the federal university in your geopolitical zone for better chances.
- Maintain Strong O’Level Grades: Grades of A1 to B3 in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English, and Mathematics boost your aggregate significantly and give you an edge over candidates with C4 to C6 grades.
Career Opportunities After Studying Nursing
Understanding the JAMB cut off mark for nursing 2026 in Nigeria is the first step toward a rewarding healthcare career. Nursing graduates enjoy diverse career opportunities both locally and internationally:
- Registered Nurse (RN): Work in hospitals, clinics, and health centres across Nigeria. Entry-level salaries range from ₦100,000 to ₦250,000 monthly.
- International Nursing: Nigerian-trained nurses are in high demand in the UK, USA, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. International nursing salaries range from $40,000 to $80,000 annually.
- Specialized Nursing: Advance into midwifery, paediatric nursing, psychiatric nursing, critical care, or nurse anaesthesia for higher earning potential.
- Nursing Education: Teach at colleges of nursing or universities after obtaining a Master’s or PhD in Nursing.
- Public Health Nursing: Work with government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations on community health programmes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the general JAMB cut-off for Nursing in 2026?
The JAMB cut off mark for nursing 2026 in Nigeria ranges from 180 to 280 at universities and 140 at colleges of nursing. The exact score depends on the institution, with top federal universities requiring 250+ and private institutions accepting 150–200.
Can I study Nursing with a JAMB score below 200?
Yes. Several universities accept 180+ for Nursing, including UNIMAID, BUK, EBSU, and most private universities. Colleges of nursing accept even lower scores (140+). Always verify the JAMB cut off mark for nursing 2026 in Nigeria at your specific preferred institution.
What JAMB subjects do I need for Nursing?
English Language, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. This combination is mandatory across all Nigerian institutions offering Nursing Science. No substitutions are accepted.
Does meeting the cut-off guarantee admission?
No. The cut-off only qualifies you for post-UTME screening. Admission is determined by your aggregate score, which combines JAMB, post-UTME, and O’Level results. Many candidates who meet the cut-off do not gain admission due to limited slots and strong competition.
How many years does it take to study Nursing?
University nursing (B.N.Sc.) takes five years, while college of nursing (RN certificate) takes three years. After graduation, you complete a one-year internship and NYSC before full registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
Can Nigerian nurses work abroad?
Yes. Nigerian-trained nurses with a B.N.Sc. degree and RN license can write international licensing exams like NCLEX (USA), CBT (UK), or HAAD (UAE) to practise abroad. This makes understanding the JAMB cut off mark for nursing 2026 in Nigeria the first step toward a globally competitive healthcare career.
Conclusion
Nursing Science remains one of Nigeria’s most competitive and rewarding university programmes, with JAMB cut-offs ranging from 140 at colleges of nursing to 280 at top federal universities. Understanding the JAMB cut off mark for nursing 2026 in Nigeria for your specific target institution is critical for effective admission planning.
Use the university-by-university tables in this guide to identify where your JAMB score is competitive. Focus on excelling in post-UTME screening, maintain excellent O’Level results, and choose your institution strategically. Whether you aim for a federal, state, or private nursing programme, thorough preparation across all admission components gives you the best chance of launching a fulfilling nursing career. Start preparing today — the healthcare system needs dedicated nurses like you.