Choosing Nursing in Nigeria usually demands very high JAMB scores—often between 200 and 250.
But if your goal is to become a nurse with a modest UTME score, you’ll be relieved to know there are accredited universities that admit Nursing candidates with much lower marks.
Based on verified data, one standout institution accepts students at a JAMB starting score of just 140.
Which university offers Nursing admission from as low as 140 UTME?
Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), formerly Kogi State University, Anyigba is confirmed to admit Nursing Science candidates with a UTME score of 140 or above.
This makes it the lowest nursing cut-off in Nigeria and a key option for students with modest UTME results who still want to study Nursing.
What about universities with cut-offs at 180 or below?
A handful of universities set their Nursing cut-off at around 180. Notable examples include:
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) – 180
- Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma – 180
- University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) – 180
These are valid options if you scored just under the national median but still want university-level Nursing.
Which other federal universities have relatively low cut-offs (≤200)?
Some federal institutions accept Nursing candidates with UTME scores below 200, including:
- Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS) – 190–200
- University of Benin (UNIBEN) – 160–200 depending on session
- Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK) – historically as low as 160
These schools offer more approachable thresholds for Nursing admission among federal institutions.
Why do cut-off marks for Nursing vary so widely by school?
Differences in cut-off marks are due to:
- Institutional demand and capacity for Nursing students
- Competition level—prestigious schools raise thresholds
- Midway state status—newer universities often have lower cut-offs while still delivering NMCN-accredited Nursing curricula
Universities like PAAU with low cut-offs aim to broaden access, while elite federal universities maintain higher thresholds.
Can I get into Nursing with a score below 140 UTME?
Not at university level. JAMB policy requires a minimum UTME of 140 for university admission, and Nursing departments universally enforce this baseline, or higher. Scoring below 140 would make it difficult to secure Nursing admission at any university.
How should I choose a university with a low cut-off to study Nursing?
To make the right choice, consider:
- Accreditation: Ensure the Nursing programme is NMCN-approved
- Location and cost: PAAU is in Kogi State and may require relocation
- Quality vs access: Institutions like PAAU or UNIZIK offer entry with modest scores, but powerful hospitals (e.g., UNIBEN, UDUS) may provide stronger clinical exposure
- Admission steps: Passing Post‑UTME and meeting O’Level requirements are essential regardless of UTME cut-off
What should I do next if my JAMB score is low but I want Nursing?
- Apply straight to Prince Abubakar Audu University (Anyigba) if your UTME is ≥140.
- Keep options open at universities like UNIZIK or AAU if you score ≥180.
- Prepare strong O’Level credentials including Biology and Chemistry.
- Prepare thoroughly for Post‑UTME, which can determine final admission.
Monitor official university portals or JAMB CAPS for admission updates.