Cheapest Nursing School in Lagos and Their Fees
Are you passionate about nursing but worried about the cost of education in Nigeria’s most expensive city? Finding the cheapest nursing school in Lagos and their fees can make your dream of becoming a healthcare professional a reality without breaking the bank. This comprehensive guide reveals affordable options for aspiring nurses in Lagos State.
Lagos State hosts some of Nigeria’s most prestigious nursing institutions, ranging from federal teaching hospitals to state colleges and private universities. While some charge millions of naira annually, several accredited schools offer quality nursing education at remarkably affordable rates. Understanding your options helps you plan your educational investment wisely.
Whether you seek a basic nursing diploma, bachelor’s degree, or specialised post-basic training, Lagos offers multiple pathways to a nursing career. This article explores the cheapest nursing school in Lagos and their fees, helping you compare institutions, understand admission requirements, and budget for your nursing education.
Overview of Nursing Education in Lagos State
Lagos State accommodates diverse nursing education options across federal, state, and private institutions. Government-owned nursing schools typically offer the most affordable fees, while private institutions charge premium rates for smaller class sizes and additional amenities.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) accredits all legitimate nursing programmes in the state. Accreditation ensures graduates can sit for professional licensing examinations and practice legally. When searching for the cheapest nursing school in Lagos and their fees, always verify NMCN accreditation status before enrolling.
Nursing programmes in Lagos range from three-year diploma courses to five-year university degrees. The programme duration and type significantly affect total costs. Hospital-based schools of nursing generally cost less than university degree programmes, making them popular choices for budget-conscious students seeking the cheapest nursing school in Lagos and their fees.
Cheapest Nursing Schools in Lagos: Fee Comparison
Here is a detailed breakdown of the cheapest nursing school in Lagos and their fees for the 2025/2026 academic session:
| Institution | Programme | Fees (₦/Session) |
| Military Hospital Yaba School of Nursing | Basic Nursing | ₦25,000 – ₦120,000 |
| UNILAG Department of Nursing | B.N.Sc Degree | ₦100,000 – ₦200,000 |
| LUTH School of Nursing, Idi-Araba | RN/RM Diploma | ₦230,000 – ₦400,000 |
| LASCON Igando | Basic Nursing | ₦300,000 – ₦350,000 |
| Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital Yaba | Mental Health | ₦100,000 – ₦200,000 |
| National Orthopaedic Hospital Igbobi | Orthopaedic Nursing | ₦150,000 – ₦250,000 |
Note: Fees exclude accommodation, uniforms, textbooks, and clinical equipment. Always confirm current rates directly with institutions.
Detailed Profile of Affordable Nursing Schools
1. School of Nursing, Military Hospital Yaba
When searching for the cheapest nursing school in Lagos and their fees, the Military Hospital Yaba consistently ranks among the most affordable options. Established in 1958, this institution operates under the Nigerian Army Medical Corps and offers basic nursing programmes at remarkably low costs.
The school charges between ₦25,000 to ₦120,000 per session depending on the programme level. Despite the low fees, training quality remains high as students gain clinical experience in a military hospital setting known for discipline and professionalism. The school accepts both civilian and military candidates.
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG) Department of Nursing
UNILAG’s Department of Nursing offers a Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.N.Sc) degree programme at competitive rates for a federal university. Located in Idi-Araba within the College of Medicine, students benefit from clinical training at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital.
Annual fees range from ₦100,000 to ₦200,000, making it one of the most affordable degree-awarding nursing programmes in Lagos. The five-year programme combines rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical rotations across various hospital departments. UNILAG graduates enjoy strong recognition nationally and internationally.
3. School of Nursing, LUTH Idi-Araba
The School of Nursing at Lagos University Teaching Hospital ranks among the oldest and most respected nursing institutions in Nigeria. Established in 1962, the school offers a four-year programme leading to Registered Nurse (RN), Registered Midwife (RM), and Registered Public Health Nurse certifications.
School fees range from ₦230,000 to ₦400,000 per session, with hostel accommodation costing approximately ₦40,000. The institution features modern simulation laboratories and an e-library that supports evidence-based nursing education. LUTH School of Nursing consistently produces graduates who excel in professional examinations.
4. Lagos State College of Nursing (LASCON) Igando
LASCON Igando is the Lagos State government’s primary nursing training institution. The college offers basic nursing and midwifery programmes accredited by both the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria and the National Board of Technical Education.
Fresh students pay approximately ₦300,000 per session, with additional acceptance fees of ₦50,000 and application fees of ₦15,000. The college provides clinical training at various Lagos State hospitals, ensuring students gain diverse healthcare exposure. LASCON maintains a consistent academic calendar under the supervision of the Lagos State Ministry of Health.
General Admission Requirements
Before applying to any cheapest nursing school in Lagos and their fees, ensure you meet these standard requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
| O’Level Results | Five credits including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics (maximum two sittings) |
| Age Requirement | Minimum 17 years at time of admission |
| JAMB/UTME | Required for university programmes; recommended score 180 and above |
| Medical Fitness | Must pass medical examination and immunisation requirements |
Tips for Reducing Nursing School Costs
Beyond finding the cheapest nursing school in Lagos and their fees, consider these strategies to minimise your overall education expenses:
Apply for government scholarships offered by the Lagos State Government, Federal Ministry of Health, and various corporate organisations. Many institutions also offer merit-based scholarships for outstanding students. Research scholarship opportunities early and submit applications before deadlines.
Consider off-campus accommodation if hostel fees are expensive. Sharing apartments with fellow students reduces individual costs significantly. Some areas near nursing schools offer affordable housing options that can cut accommodation expenses by half.
Purchase second-hand textbooks and uniforms from senior students. Many essential nursing textbooks remain relevant across academic sessions. Join student groups where resources are shared, reducing individual spending on expensive clinical equipment.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Graduates from the cheapest nursing school in Lagos and their fees enjoy diverse career opportunities across Nigeria and internationally. Registered nurses find employment in government hospitals, private healthcare facilities, corporate organisations, schools, and non-governmental organisations.
Many Lagos-trained nurses pursue careers abroad in countries like the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and the Middle East. International employers value Nigerian nurses for their strong clinical training and work ethic. With experience, nurses can specialise in areas such as critical care, paediatrics, oncology, and theatre nursing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which is the cheapest nursing school in Lagos?
The School of Nursing at Military Hospital Yaba offers the lowest fees, starting from ₦25,000 per session for certain programmes. However, competition for admission is high due to limited slots and affordable pricing.
Can I study nursing in Lagos without JAMB?
Most diploma nursing schools previously admitted students without JAMB. However, current regulations require JAMB for basic nursing programmes aligned with the National Diploma pathway. University B.N.Sc programmes always require UTME.
How long does nursing training take in Lagos?
Basic nursing diploma programmes take three to four years, while university B.N.Sc degree programmes span five years. Post-basic specialisation programmes for registered nurses typically last 12 to 18 months depending on the specialty.
Are Lagos nursing schools accredited?
All legitimate nursing schools in Lagos hold accreditation from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). Always verify accreditation status before enrolling to ensure your qualification is recognised for professional registration.
Is accommodation included in nursing school fees?
Accommodation is typically separate from tuition fees. Hostel costs vary from ₦30,000 to ₦100,000 per session depending on the institution. Some schools offer optional on-campus housing while others require students to arrange their own accommodation.
Can I pay nursing school fees in instalments?
Payment policies vary by institution. Some schools allow two or three instalment payments, while others require full payment before registration. Check with your chosen institution for their specific payment arrangements.
What documents do I need for nursing school admission?
Required documents include O’Level certificates, birth certificate, local government identification, passport photographs, JAMB result (where applicable), and medical fitness certificate. Some institutions request additional documents during registration.
How to Apply to Nursing Schools in Lagos
Once you identify the cheapest nursing school in Lagos and their fees that suits your budget and career goals, follow these steps to apply successfully:
Step 1: Visit the official website of your chosen nursing school to confirm admission is open and review current application requirements.
Step 2: Purchase the application form online or at the school’s admissions office. Application fees typically range from ₦10,000 to ₦20,000.
Step 3: Complete the application form accurately, upload required documents, and submit before the deadline.
Step 4: Prepare for and sit the entrance examination or screening test conducted by the school.
Step 5: Check the admission list when published and pay acceptance fees within the stipulated deadline to secure your slot.
Additional Costs to Budget For
Understanding the cheapest nursing school in Lagos and their fees is just part of the financial picture. Students must also budget for these additional expenses:
Nursing uniforms and clinical attire cost between ₦15,000 and ₦30,000. Clinical equipment including stethoscopes, blood pressure monitors, and nursing kits add another ₦20,000 to ₦50,000 to initial expenses. Textbooks and study materials require approximately ₦30,000 to ₦60,000 per session depending on the programme.
Monthly feeding expenses in Lagos range from ₦15,000 to ₦40,000 depending on eating habits and accommodation arrangements. Transportation costs vary based on proximity to the school, with students spending ₦5,000 to ₦20,000 monthly on commuting. Planning for these costs helps avoid financial stress during your nursing programme.
Choosing the Right Nursing School for You
While researching the cheapest nursing school in Lagos and their fees, consider factors beyond tuition alone. Evaluate clinical training quality, faculty experience, graduate success rates, and career support services offered by each institution.
Visit shortlisted schools if possible to observe facilities, interact with current students, and assess the learning environment. Speak with alumni to understand their experiences and career outcomes. The right school balances affordability with quality education and strong career prospects.
Conclusion
Finding the cheapest nursing school in Lagos and their fees requires careful research and planning. Government-owned institutions like Military Hospital Yaba, UNILAG, and LUTH offer quality nursing education at affordable rates compared to private alternatives.
While fees remain an important consideration, also evaluate programme quality, clinical exposure opportunities, accreditation status, and graduate employment rates when choosing your nursing school. Investing in quality nursing education pays dividends throughout your career. Remember that the cheapest nursing school in Lagos and their fees may change between academic sessions, so always verify current rates.
Begin your application process early, prepare required documents, and explore scholarship opportunities to reduce your financial burden. Your dream of becoming a registered nurse in Lagos is achievable with proper planning and the right institution.