Nursing remains one of the fastest-growing and most respected healthcare professions in Nigeria. Across the country, thousands of students apply for nursing admission yearly because of the profession’s stability, global relevance, and employment opportunities.
The healthcare sector continues to expand locally and internationally due to increasing population growth, rising health challenges, shortage of healthcare professionals, and the growing demand for qualified nurses across hospitals and healthcare institutions worldwide.
In Nigeria today, many students who are passionate about medical and healthcare careers now consider Schools of Nursing as important alternatives to university Nursing Science programmes. Some candidates also prefer nursing schools because they focus heavily on practical healthcare training and clinical exposure. For the 2026/2027 academic session, many students and parents are searching for accurate information regarding:
- List of accredited Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
- School fees
- Admission requirements
- Entrance examination procedures
- Hostel accommodation
- Duration of study
- Licensing examinations
- Cheapest nursing schools
- Private nursing schools
- Career opportunities after graduation
This comprehensive guide explains everything prospective nursing students should know before applying to Schools of Nursing in Nigeria. The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria remains the major regulatory body responsible for nursing education and professional standards in Nigeria.
Understanding Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
Schools of Nursing are healthcare training institutions established to train students in nursing practice, patient care, clinical procedures, healthcare ethics, and community health management.
These institutions are usually affiliated with:
- Teaching hospitals
- Federal medical centres
- State hospitals
- Mission hospitals
- Specialist healthcare institutions
Most Schools of Nursing emphasize intensive clinical and hospital-based training.
Why Nursing Is Becoming More Popular in Nigeria
Several factors have increased interest in nursing education.
International Migration Opportunities
Nurses are among the most globally mobile professionals.
Many Nigerian nurses relocate abroad for better career opportunities in countries such as:
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- United States
- Australia
- Saudi Arabia
Growing Healthcare Demand
Healthcare services continue expanding because of:
- Population growth
- Disease outbreaks
- Aging populations
- Healthcare shortages
List of School of Nursing in Nigeria and their Fees
Stable Career Path
Nursing offers relatively stable employment opportunities compared to many professions.
Diverse Career Opportunities
Nurses can work in:
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- NGOs
- Public health agencies
- International organizations
- Schools
- Research institutions
Difference Between School of Nursing and University Nursing Programmes
Many students misunderstand the difference between these educational systems.
Schools of Nursing
Traditional Schools of Nursing mainly focus on:
- Clinical practice
- Hospital exposure
- Practical patient care
These institutions are often hospital-based.
University Nursing Programmes
Universities offer:
- Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc)
These programmes combine:
- Academic theory
- Research
- Clinical practice
- Leadership training
University nursing programmes generally last longer.
Admission Requirements for Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
Although admission requirements may vary slightly across institutions, most schools require similar qualifications.
O’Level Requirements
Applicants commonly need at least five credit passes including:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Accepted examination bodies usually include:
- WAEC
- NECO
- NABTEB
Age Requirement
Most schools require applicants to be at least:
- 16 years old
Entrance Examination
Candidates usually sit for entrance examinations covering subjects such as:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Current affairs
Oral Interview
Successful candidates may proceed to interview stages.
Medical Fitness Requirement
Students are generally expected to be medically fit for clinical healthcare training.
Duration of Nursing Training in Nigeria
Training duration varies depending on programme structure and institution.
major Schools/Colleges of Nursing in Nigeria, their estimated JAMB or entrance cut-off marks, and estimated school fees for the 2026/2027 academic session
Below is a compiled table of some of the major Schools/Colleges of Nursing in Nigeria, their estimated JAMB or entrance cut-off marks, and estimated school fees for the 2026/2027 academic session. Please note that fees and cut-off marks vary yearly and may change depending on the institution, state policies, hostel accommodation, uniforms, and other levies.
| School of Nursing | Location | Estimated Cut-Off Mark | Estimated School Fees (Per Session) |
|---|---|---|---|
| LUTH School of Nursing | Lagos State | 180–200 | ₦230,000 – ₦400,000 |
| School of Nursing UCH | Oyo State | 180–200 | ₦150,000 – ₦200,000 |
| OAUTHC School of Nursing | Osun State | 170–190 | ₦150,000 – ₦220,000 |
| FMC School of Nursing Abeokuta | Ogun State | 160–180 | ₦150,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Sacred Heart School of Nursing | Ogun State | 160–180 | ₦180,000 – ₦300,000 |
| School of Nursing Eleyele | Oyo State | 160–180 | ₦150,000 – ₦200,000 |
| Bowen University Teaching Hospital School of Nursing | Oyo State | 170–190 | ₦180,000 – ₦250,000 |
| School of Nursing Port Harcourt | Rivers State | 170–190 | ₦195,000 – ₦255,000 |
| UPTH School of Nursing | Rivers State | 180–200 | ₦200,000 – ₦300,000 |
| JUTH School of Nursing | Plateau State | 170–190 | ₦150,000 – ₦220,000 |
| School of Nursing Vom | Plateau State | 160–180 | ₦150,000 – ₦200,000 |
| UNTH School of Nursing | Enugu State | 180–200 | ₦180,000 – ₦250,000 |
| School of Nursing FMC Owerri | Imo State | 170–190 | ₦150,000 – ₦220,000 |
| School of Nursing Umulogho | Imo State | 160–180 | ₦180,000 – ₦250,000 |
| AKTH School of Nursing | Kano State | 170–190 | ₦150,000 – ₦220,000 |
| ABUTH School of Nursing | Kaduna State | 180–200 | ₦180,000 – ₦260,000 |
| UBTH School of Nursing | Edo State | 180–200 | ₦180,000 – ₦250,000 |
| NAUTH School of Nursing | Anambra State | 170–190 | ₦180,000 – ₦250,000 |
| School of Nursing Birnin Kebbi | Kebbi State | 150–170 | ₦120,000 – ₦180,000 |
| School of Nursing Katsina | Katsina State | 150–170 | ₦120,000 – ₦180,000 |
| FCT College of Nursing Sciences | FCT Abuja | 180–200 | ₦200,000 – ₦300,000 |
| School of Nursing Makurdi | Benue State | 160–180 | ₦150,000 – ₦220,000 |
| School of Nursing Yola | Adamawa State | 150–170 | ₦120,000 – ₦180,000 |
| School of Nursing Maiduguri | Borno State | 150–170 | ₦120,000 – ₦180,000 |
| School of Nursing Calabar | Cross River State | 160–180 | ₦150,000 – ₦220,000 |
Important Notes
- Federal teaching hospital nursing schools usually have higher cut-off marks because of competition.
- Most Colleges of Nursing now require JAMB results in addition to internal entrance examinations.
- Fees for freshers are usually higher because they include acceptance fee, uniforms, hostel, medicals, and registration charges.
- Private nursing schools are generally more expensive than state-owned institutions.
- Some schools conduct separate entrance exams even after meeting the JAMB cut-off.
List of School of Nursing in Nigeria and their Fees
General Admission Requirements
Most nursing schools require:
- Minimum of five credits in WAEC/NECO/NABTEB including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- JAMB result (mostly 150–200 depending on the school).
- Age requirement usually 16 years and above.
- Passing the school entrance examination and interview.
Basic Nursing Programme
Traditional nursing programmes usually last:
- Three years
Nursing and Midwifery Combination Programmes
Combined programmes may last:
- Four years or longer
University Nursing Degree
Bachelor of Nursing Science programmes generally require:
- Five years
Important Qualities Every Nursing Student Should Have
Nursing requires more than academic intelligence.
List of School of Nursing in Nigeria and their Fees
Compassion
Nurses work closely with patients experiencing pain and emotional stress.
Patience
Healthcare environments can become physically and emotionally demanding.
Communication Skills
Nurses communicate constantly with:
- Patients
- Doctors
- Families
- Healthcare teams
Discipline
Clinical environments require strict professional discipline.
Emotional Stability
Healthcare workers often encounter emergencies and traumatic situations.
Career Opportunities After Nursing School
Nursing graduates can pursue careers across multiple sectors.
Hospital Nursing
Graduates may work in:
- Government hospitals
- Private hospitals
- Specialist clinics
Public Health Nursing
Nurses may participate in:
- Vaccination campaigns
- Community health programmes
- Rural healthcare services
International Nursing Opportunities
Foreign countries increasingly recruit Nigerian nurses because of healthcare shortages.
Academic Careers
Experienced nurses may become:
- Lecturers
- Clinical instructors
- Healthcare educators
NGO and Humanitarian Healthcare
Nurses may work with:
- International NGOs
- Humanitarian agencies
- Emergency health programmes
Major Schools of Nursing in Nigeria and Their Estimated Fees 2026/2027
School fees may vary yearly depending on:
- Government policies
- Accommodation
- Clinical charges
- Institutional upgrades
- Economic conditions
The figures below are estimated tuition ranges for the 2026/2027 academic session.
School of Nursing Lagos University Teaching Hospital
This institution operates within Lagos University Teaching Hospital and remains one of Nigeria’s most recognized nursing schools.
Estimated School Fees
Estimated tuition may range between:
- ₦250,000 to ₦400,000 per session
depending on level and accommodation.
Why Students Choose This School
- Strong hospital exposure
- Experienced healthcare instructors
- Excellent clinical facilities
- Competitive reputation
School of Nursing University College Hospital Ibadan
The University College Hospital Ibadan remains one of Nigeria’s oldest and most respected healthcare institutions.
Estimated Fees
Approximate tuition may range between:
- ₦200,000 to ₦350,000 yearly
Major Advantages
- Strong academic reputation
- Broad clinical exposure
- Experienced medical personnel
School of Nursing University of Benin Teaching Hospital
Located within University of Benin Teaching Hospital.
Estimated Fees
Approximate tuition may range between:
- ₦180,000 to ₦300,000
Benefits
- Strong practical healthcare training
- Affordable compared to some private institutions
- Large patient exposure
School of Nursing University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital
This southeastern institution remains highly respected among nursing applicants.
Estimated Fees
Estimated tuition may range between:
- ₦200,000 to ₦350,000
Major Strengths
- Experienced lecturers
- Strong healthcare training reputation
- Competitive clinical environment
Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital School of Nursing
Located within northern Nigeria’s major teaching hospital environment.
Estimated Fees
Approximate tuition:
- ₦150,000 to ₦280,000
Why Students Apply
- Affordable tuition structure
- Strong northern healthcare reputation
- Broad hospital training exposure
School of Nursing University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital
This institution remains popular among South-South applicants.
Estimated Fees
Estimated tuition may range between:
- ₦180,000 to ₦320,000
Advantages
- Strong clinical training
- Exposure to large healthcare facilities
- Good regional reputation
List of School of Nursing in Nigeria and their Fees
School of Nursing National Hospital Abuja
This Abuja-based institution remains one of Nigeria’s highly competitive nursing schools.
Estimated Fees
Approximate tuition:
- ₦250,000 to ₦400,000
Key Benefits
- Federal institution environment
- Modern healthcare infrastructure
- Strong healthcare exposure
ECWA School of Nursing Egbe
This mission-based nursing institution is widely respected.
Estimated Fees
Estimated tuition may range between:
- ₦300,000 to ₦500,000
Major Advantages
- Strong discipline
- Structured academic system
- Good hostel management
School of Nursing Federal Medical Centre Owerri
Located in Imo State within a federal healthcare environment.
Estimated Fees
Approximate tuition may range between:
- ₦180,000 to ₦300,000
Strengths
- Affordable tuition
- Federal medical exposure
- Strong southeastern healthcare environment
School of Nursing Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe
One of the growing nursing institutions in northern Nigeria.
Estimated Fees
Estimated range:
- ₦150,000 to ₦250,000
Benefits
- Relatively affordable fees
- Growing healthcare facilities
- Northern clinical exposure
List of School of Nursing in Nigeria and their Fees
Cheapest Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
Many students search specifically for affordable nursing schools.
Some institutions known for relatively lower tuition may include:
- Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe
- Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital School of Nursing
- University of Benin Teaching Hospital School of Nursing
However, students should understand that affordability may still depend on:
- Hostel fees
- Feeding expenses
- Transportation
- Clinical charges
Most Expensive Nursing Schools in Nigeria
Certain private and mission-owned institutions may charge significantly higher tuition.
Factors contributing to higher fees include:
- Modern infrastructure
- Private ownership
- Hostel quality
- Advanced clinical facilities
Additional Expenses Nursing Students Must Prepare For
Many students focus only on tuition and forget other important costs.
Hostel Accommodation
Accommodation costs vary depending on:
- Institution
- Room category
- Location
Feeding
Students require proper nutrition because of demanding healthcare schedules.
Clinical Uniforms
Nursing students commonly purchase:
- White uniforms
- Scrubs
- Shoes
- Clinical equipment
Medical Textbooks
Healthcare textbooks can be expensive.
Transportation
Off-campus students may spend heavily on transportation.
Examination and Licensing Charges
Professional examinations may involve additional fees.
Why Nursing Education Costs Continue Rising
Several economic and institutional factors contribute to increasing nursing school fees.
Inflation
Nigeria’s inflation affects operational costs.
Healthcare Equipment Expenses
Medical training equipment is costly.
Infrastructure Maintenance
Schools spend heavily on:
- Laboratories
- Clinical wards
- Utilities
- Healthcare facilities
Regulatory Compliance
Institutions must maintain accreditation standards required by nursing regulators.
More Schools of Nursing in Nigeria and Their Estimated Fees 2026/2027
Nigeria has many accredited nursing institutions spread across federal, state, mission-owned, and private healthcare systems. Students should always verify accreditation status before applying because unapproved healthcare programmes may create licensing problems after graduation.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria supervises professional nursing education standards and licensing processes in Nigeria.
Below are additional recognized nursing institutions and their estimated tuition structures for the 2026/2027 academic session.
School of Nursing University of Calabar Teaching Hospital
This institution serves many applicants from the South-South and southeastern regions.
Estimated Fees
Approximate tuition may range between:
- ₦180,000 to ₦320,000
Major Advantages
- Strong hospital exposure
- Federal healthcare environment
- Experienced clinical instructors
School of Nursing Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital
Located in Sokoto State within a major northern teaching hospital.
Estimated Fees
Estimated tuition may range between:
- ₦150,000 to ₦270,000
Strengths
- Relatively affordable tuition
- Strong clinical training
- Northern healthcare exposure
School of Nursing Federal Medical Centre Abeokuta
This institution remains popular among southwestern applicants.
Estimated Fees
Approximate tuition:
- ₦180,000 to ₦300,000
Advantages
- Federal medical environment
- Good clinical training systems
- Strong healthcare exposure
School of Nursing Federal Medical Centre Umuahia
Located in Abia State.
Estimated Fees
Estimated tuition may range between:
- ₦170,000 to ₦290,000
Key Benefits
- Competitive clinical exposure
- Moderate tuition structure
- Federal healthcare training environment
School of Nursing Jos University Teaching Hospital
One of northern Nigeria’s recognized healthcare training institutions.
Estimated Fees
Approximate tuition:
- ₦180,000 to ₦300,000
Why Students Apply
- Strong healthcare reputation
- Clinical training opportunities
- Experienced instructors
School of Nursing Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex
This institution operates within a respected southwestern healthcare system.
Estimated Fees
Estimated tuition:
- ₦200,000 to ₦350,000
Major Advantages
- Strong academic environment
- Excellent hospital facilities
- Competitive nursing reputation
School of Nursing Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital
Located in Kano State.
Estimated Fees
Approximate tuition:
- ₦150,000 to ₦280,000
Strengths
- Large hospital exposure
- Affordable tuition structure
- Strong northern reputation
School of Nursing Federal Medical Centre Yenagoa
Located in Bayelsa State.
Estimated Fees
Estimated tuition may range between:
- ₦180,000 to ₦300,000
Benefits
- South-South healthcare exposure
- Federal medical institution environment
- Practical clinical training
Private Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
Private healthcare training institutions are also expanding rapidly across Nigeria.
Why Some Students Prefer Private Nursing Schools
Private institutions may offer:
- Smaller student populations
- Better hostel systems
- Modern infrastructure
- Faster administrative processes
However, tuition in private schools is usually higher.
Examples of Private and Mission-Based Nursing Schools
School of Nursing Babcock University Teaching Hospital
Estimated fees may range between:
- ₦500,000 to over ₦1 million
Bowen University Teaching Hospital School of Nursing
Estimated tuition:
- ₦400,000 to ₦800,000
School of Nursing Igbinedion University Teaching Hospital
Estimated tuition:
- ₦500,000 to over ₦1 million
Important Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Nursing School
Many students focus only on tuition fees and ignore other critical factors.
Accreditation Status
Always verify institutional approval and accreditation.
Clinical Exposure
Strong hospital exposure improves practical learning.
Hostel Accommodation
Students should assess:
- Security
- Water supply
- Electricity
- Study environment
Location
Location affects:
- Transportation
- Security
- Cost of living
- Climate adaptation
Licensing Examination Performance
Schools with strong licensing performance often attract more applicants.
Nursing Entrance Examination Preparation Tips
Entrance examinations remain highly competitive in many institutions.
Subjects Commonly Tested
Applicants usually prepare for:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Current affairs
List of School of Nursing in Nigeria and their Fees
Study Strategies for Nursing Applicants
Use Past Questions
Past questions help students understand examination patterns.
Focus on Science Subjects
Strong science preparation improves performance significantly.
Practice Time Management
Speed and accuracy matter during examinations.
Study Current Affairs
Some institutions include current affairs questions.
Nursing School Interview Preparation Tips
Candidates who pass entrance examinations may proceed to interviews.
Common Interview Areas
Interviewers may ask questions about:
- Why you want to become a nurse
- Healthcare ethics
- Personal discipline
- Communication ability
How to Perform Well During Interviews
Dress Properly
Professional appearance matters.
Speak Clearly
Good communication skills are important in healthcare.
Demonstrate Compassion
Interview panels often assess emotional maturity and patient care attitude.
Hostel Life for Nursing Students
Many Schools of Nursing operhttps://fud.edu.ng/ate strict hostel systems because of healthcare discipline requirements.
Advantages of Hostel Living
Easier Access to Clinical Duties
Students can report quickly for hospital assignments.
Better Academic Supervision
Hostels often support disciplined study schedules.
Improved Group Learning
Students study together and share academic materials.
Challenges of Hostel Life
Limited Privacy
Shared rooms may reduce personal space.
Strict Rules
Healthcare institutions often enforce strict regulations.
Emotional Stress
Clinical schedules can become demanding.
Nursing Licensing Examination in Nigeria
Graduation alone does not automatically qualify students to practice nursing professionally.
Role of Professional Licensing
Students must pass professional licensing examinations supervised by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.
Importance of Licensing
Licensing confirms professional competence and eligibility to practice.
Consequences of Failing Licensing Examinations
Students who fail licensing examinations may not practice professionally until they pass required assessments.
International Migration Opportunities for Nigerian Nurses
International healthcare demand has increased migration opportunities for Nigerian nurses.
Countries Recruiting Nigerian Nurses
Popular destinations include:
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- United States
- Saudi Arabia
- Australia
Why Foreign Countries Need Nurses
Many developed countries experience:
- Aging populations
- Healthcare worker shortages
- Expanding healthcare systems
List of School of Nursing in Nigeria and their Fees
Benefits of International Nursing Careers
Higher Salaries
Foreign healthcare systems often pay significantly more.
Better Working Conditions
Some countries provide improved healthcare infrastructure.
Career Advancement
International exposure improves professional development.
Challenges Nigerian Nurses Face Abroad
Despite opportunities, migration also involves challenges.
Licensing Conversion Requirements
Foreign countries often require additional examinations.
Cultural Adjustment
Migrating nurses may face adaptation difficulties.
Emotional Separation From Family
Relocation may involve emotional stress.
Salary Expectations for Nurses in Nigeria
Nursing salaries vary depending on:
- Experience
- Institution
- State
- Qualification level
List of School of Nursing in Nigeria and their Fees
Government Hospital Salaries
Entry-level nurses in government hospitals may earn moderate salaries depending on federal or state structures.
Private Hospital Salaries
Private healthcare salaries vary widely.
International Nursing Salaries
Foreign nursing salaries are generally much higher than local earnings.
Common Challenges Nursing Students Face in Nigeria
Nursing education is demanding academically and emotionally.
Intensive Clinical Schedules
Students spend long hours in hospitals and classrooms.
Financial Pressure
Healthcare education involves many expenses.
Academic Stress
Nursing programmes require serious discipline and concentration.
Emotional Pressure
Students encounter illness, emergencies, and patient suffering regularly.
Common Mistakes Nursing Applicants Must Avoid
Applying to Unaccredited Schools
This can create licensing problems after graduation.
Poor Entrance Examination Preparation
Competition is increasing yearly.
Ignoring Clinical Discipline Requirements
Healthcare institutions maintain strict professional standards.
Incomplete Documentation
Missing documents may affect admission.
Waiting Until Deadline Periods
Late applications increase risks of technical and administrative problems.
Expert Advice for Aspiring Nursing Students
Students planning healthcare careers should prepare seriously.
Develop Strong Science Backgrounds
Science subjects remain fundamental to nursing success.
Improve Communication Skills
Healthcare professionals communicate constantly with patients and medical teams.
Prepare Emotionally for Healthcare Work
Nursing requires emotional maturity and compassion.
Maintain Discipline
Professional discipline is essential in healthcare environments.
Plan Financially
Students and parents should budget for:
- Tuition
- Hostel
- Clinical materials
- Feeding
- Licensing charges
Real-Life Nursing Career Scenarios
Scenario One: Student Chooses School Based Only on Low Fees
A student ignores accreditation and hospital quality.
Result:
- Poor training and possible licensing difficulties may occur.
Scenario Two: Student Prepares Early for Entrance Examination
The student studies past questions months before exams.
Result:
- Better admission chances and stronger confidence.
Scenario Three: Student Lacks Emotional Preparedness
The student struggles emotionally during hospital exposure.
Result:
- Clinical stress affects academic performance.
Scenario Four: Student Plans International Career Early
The student develops strong academics and professional discipline.
Result:
- Better international migration opportunities after qualification.
List of School of Nursing in Nigeria and their Fees
Frequently Asked Questions About Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
Which School of Nursing Is the Cheapest in Nigeria?
Federal institutions in northern Nigeria are often among the more affordable options.
Which Nursing School Is Most Expensive?
Private and mission-owned institutions may charge the highest tuition.
How Many Years Is School of Nursing in Nigeria?
Many traditional programmes last approximately three years.
Can I Enter Nursing School With Two Sittings?
Some institutions may accept two sittings depending on admission policies.
Is Mathematics Compulsory for Nursing Admission?
Yes.
Mathematics is usually part of the required O’Level subjects.
Can Nursing Graduates Work Abroad?
Yes.
Nigerian nurses increasingly work internationally after meeting foreign licensing requirements.
Final Thoughts
Nursing remains one of the most respected and globally valuable healthcare professions available to Nigerian students today.
For the 2026/2027 academic session, thousands of students are expected to apply into Schools of Nursing across federal, state, mission-owned, and private healthcare institutions nationwide.
Choosing the right nursing school should involve more than selecting the cheapest institution. Students should carefully consider factors such as accreditation, clinical exposure, hostel quality, institutional reputation, licensing performance, learning environment, and long-term career opportunities.
Although nursing education can be academically demanding and financially intensive, the profession continues to offer strong employment opportunities, international migration prospects, career stability, and opportunities for meaningful impact within society.
Students who prepare properly, remain disciplined, perform strongly academically, and develop genuine compassion for healthcare service often build highly rewarding careers within the nursing profession both in Nigeria and internationally.
