JAMB Cut Off Mark for Nursing 2025/2026 – Complete guide

Do you want to know the approved JAMB cut off mark for Nursing in Nigeria for 2025/2026? See federal, state, and private university requirements.

Nursing remains one of the most sought-after and competitive courses in Nigerian universities. With its high employability rate and global relevance, many students across the country dream of studying Nursing Science. However, gaining admission is no easy task, especially without understanding the exact JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing in 2025.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about gaining admission into a Nursing program in Nigeria through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

We will cover the general JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing, university-specific requirements, and expert tips to boost your chances of securing admission, whether you’re targeting UNILAG, UNN, OAU, or a private institution.

JAMB Cut Off Mark for Nursing

What Is a Cut Off Mark in JAMB?

A JAMB cut off mark is the minimum score a candidate must obtain in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to be eligible to apply for admission into a Nigerian university, polytechnic, or college of education.

There are two types of cut off marks to understand:

General JAMB Cut Off Mark: Set by JAMB annually for all institutions. This is the bare minimum (e.g., 140–160).
Departmental Cut Off Mark: Set by individual institutions for specific courses. Nursing, being highly competitive, usually has a much higher departmental cut off mark.

JAMB Cut Off Mark for Nursing 2025 (General Benchmark)

For the 2025/2026 academic session, JAMB has maintained a general cut off mark of 140 for university admissions. However, individual universities are allowed to set higher departmental cut off marks based on competitiveness, candidate performance, and available quotas.

For Nursing, most universities require a minimum JAMB score of:

Institution Type	Minimum Cut Off (Estimated)
Federal Universities	240–above
State Universities	200–220
Private Universities	180–200
Nursing Colleges (Schools)	180–200

Departmental Cut Off Marks for Nursing in Top Nigerian Universities

Here’s a list of major universities in Nigeria and their expected JAMB cut off marks for Nursing Science in 2025:

University	Expected Cut Off (Nursing)	Comments
University of Lagos (UNILAG)	250+	Highly competitive; excellent Post-UTME performance required.
University of Ibadan (UI)	250+	One of the hardest to get into for Nursing.
University of Nigeria (UNN)	260+	Competitive, especially for indigenes of Southeast states.
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)	250+	Requires strong JAMB and Post-UTME combination.
University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)	250+	Slightly more accessible than UI/UNN.
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)	250+	Ideal for candidates in Northern Nigeria.
Lagos State University (LASU)	240+	High demand from Lagos residents; competitive.
Delta State University (DELSU)	240+	Slightly lower than federal universities.
Imo State University (IMSU)	220+	Good alternative for Southeastern candidates.
University of Benin (UNIBEN)	250+	High reputation in Nursing Science.

Private Universities Offering Nursing (with Lower Cut Off Marks)

Some private universities in Nigeria offer Nursing with lower cut off marks (180–200) and reduced competition. These are ideal if you didn’t score high in JAMB but are financially capable.

Private University	JAMB Cut Off for Nursing	Notes
Babcock University	200+	Offers top-quality Nursing program.
Igbinedion University	180–200	First private university to offer Nursing.
Afe Babalola University	200+	Highly rated Nursing facilities.
Madonna University	180–200	Lower cut-off, widely accepted.
Achievers University	180+	Accredited Nursing program.

Why Is the Nursing Cut Off Mark So High?

There are several reasons why cut off marks for Nursing are often among the highest of all courses:

High Demand: Thousands of students apply for limited Nursing slots annually.
Employability: Nursing is one of the few courses with international relevance and job opportunities abroad.
Limited Capacity: Universities have limited staff and facilities for Nursing training (labs, hospitals).
Professional Regulation: The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) sets strict standards.
Higher Academic Standards: The program demands strong candidates with science backgrounds.

How to Gain Admission into Nursing in Nigeria (2025 Tips)

To increase your chances of gaining admission to Nursing in 2025, consider the following strategies:

1. Score Above 250 in JAMB

The higher your score, the better your chances, especially for federal universities.

2. Perform Exceptionally in Post-UTME

Some schools weigh Post-UTME more heavily than JAMB. Study past questions and attend tutorials.

3. Consider Less Competitive Schools

If your JAMB score is lower, apply to state or private universities with lower cut-off marks.

4. Choose Nursing as 1st Choice

Most schools will not admit Nursing applicants who chose them as a second choice.

5. Monitor School Portals Regularly

Stay updated on admission deadlines, departmental cut offs, and screening dates.

JAMB Cut Off Mark for Nursing

Alternative Routes to Study Nursing in Nigeria

If you don’t meet the JAMB requirements for university Nursing programs, there are other legitimate paths:

1. Schools/Colleges of Nursing (3-Year RN Program)

No JAMB needed.
Entrance exams and interviews are conducted.
After RN, you can apply for BSc Nursing through direct entry.

2. Direct Entry (After ND/NCE or RN)

Holders of an RN Certificate or National Diploma in Health-related courses can apply directly to the 200-level Nursing.

3. Transfer or Change of Course

Start with a related course like Anatomy, Medical Lab Science, or Physiology, then request a transfer to Nursing (if allowed).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About JAMB Cut Off Mark for Nursing

What is the cut off mark for Nursing in UNILAG in 2025?

Expect at least 260–270+ for a strong chance of admission into UNILAG’s Nursing program.

Can I study Nursing with 180 in JAMB?

Not in most federal or state universities. However, private universities or schools of Nursing may accept 180.

Is Post-UTME compulsory for Nursing?

Yes. Most schools will not admit candidates based on JAMB score alone.

Which private universities accept low JAMB scores for Nursing?

Schools like Madonna, Igbinedion, and Achievers University accept candidates with 180–200+.

Is Direct Entry allowed for BSc Nursing?

Yes. RN holders and ND/NCE holders in health sciences can apply for direct entry into 200-level Nursing.

Final Tips

Studying Nursing in Nigeria is a competitive journey, but with the right information, early preparation, and strategic choices, you can succeed.

Aim for 250+ in JAMB and perform well in Post-UTME.
Choose schools wisely based on your score and funding capacity.
Regularly visit JAMB and university websites for updates.
Avoid scammers promising guaranteed Nursing admission.

Start preparing today and explore alternatives like private universities or schools of Nursing if needed. Always verify details through official school portals or JAMB brochure.