Choosing to study Nursing Science in Nigeria is one of the most competitive decisions a candidate can make, especially through JAMB.
Admission into Nursing programs is highly sought after across federal, state, and private universities.
This article provides an accurate guide to the cut-off marks for Nursing Science in Nigerian universities for the 2025/2026 academic session.
What is the general JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria?
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has set the minimum national cut-off mark for university admissions in 2025/2026 at 140. However, this is only a general benchmark.
For Nursing Science specifically, most universities require a much higher score, often ranging between 200 and 280, depending on the institution and the competitiveness of applicants in that year.
Scoring only 140 in JAMB will not be sufficient for admission into Nursing at any accredited Nigerian university.
Which universities have the highest cut-off marks for Nursing?
Universities like the University of Lagos (UNILAG), University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), University of Benin (UNIBEN), and University of Ibadan (UI) are known for their high cut-off marks in Nursing.
In most years, these schools set their cut-offs between 260 and 280 due to intense competition.
For instance, UNIBEN and UNILAG both recorded departmental cut-off marks of 270+ in the previous academic session, requiring applicants to not only meet the JAMB threshold but also perform excellently in the Post-UTME screening.
Which federal universities offer Nursing and their cut-off marks?
Here are the Nursing Science cut-off marks for top federal universities in 2025:
- UNILAG – 270
- UNIBEN – 265
- UNN – 264
- UNIBADAN – 260
- Bayero University Kano (BUK) – 250
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) – 240
- University of Jos (UNIJOS) – 240
- Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (UDUSOK) – 220
- University of Calabar (UNICAL) – 220
Note: These scores reflect the departmental cut-off marks, not just the JAMB minimum. Some schools also consider catchment areas and other admission factors.
What are the cut-off marks for state universities offering Nursing?
Many state universities also offer Nursing Science, and their cut-off marks are slightly lower than federal universities but still competitive. Examples include:
- Lagos State University (LASU) – 250
- Delta State University (DELSU) – 240
- Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) – 240
- Ebonyi State University (EBSU) – 220
- Benue State University (BSU) – 220
- Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) – 230
- Ekiti State University (EKSU) – 220
- Imo State University (IMSU) – 220
State universities may also adjust their cut-off marks slightly depending on applicant volume and performance in Post-UTME screenings.
Which private universities offer Nursing and what are their cut-off marks?
Private universities in Nigeria generally set more flexible cut-off marks. However, some top-tier ones still require strong academic performance for Nursing:
- Babcock University – 200 and above
- Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) – 220+
- Bowen University – 200
- Madonna University – 180
- Lead City University – 180
- Achievers University – 180
- Oduduwa University – 160
Admission to private universities usually includes an internal screening process in addition to JAMB.
Can I study Nursing with a JAMB score below 200?
It is unlikely. Most accredited universities offering Nursing will not accept a JAMB score below 200.
If your score falls below this, consider Nursing in private universities with lower thresholds or schools of Nursing (college-based programmes outside the university system).
However, these options may come with limitations in terms of academic structure or degree equivalence.
Are there alternatives for students who do not meet the cut-off mark?
Yes. Candidates who do not meet the cut-off for BSc Nursing in universities can explore the following alternatives:
- School of Nursing (e.g., Federal Medical Centre programmes)
- College of Health Technology Nursing Programmes
- National Open University of Nigeria (for community health tracks)
- Private universities with lower thresholds
- Pre-degree or JUPEB programmes to improve qualifications
These options allow students to still pursue Nursing or related careers, with opportunities to upgrade to BSc Nursing in future through Direct Entry.