How to Gain Admission Into School of Nursing in Nigeria 2024

School of Nursing in Nigeria is a specialized institution that offers degree programs for training mid-level health practitioners in the Nursing profession.

Gaining admission into the School or College of Nursing in Nigeria is competitive because of the fewer slots for acceptance to study the program.

My sister took many years to get into the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) School of Nursing.

She wrote the entrance exam three (3) times before she obtained admission. However, her problem was passing the entrance exam with a high score.

Many people do not know that admission to the School of Nursing is more competitive than getting into the University to study Nursing Sciences.

I am writing this post because I would not want you to make the same mistakes as my sister or encounter any challenges with gaining admission into any School of Nursing in Nigeria.

Let me know in the comment if you have any questions or need further clarification. I would love to hear from you.

I wish you success as you begin your journey in the Nursing profession.

School of Nursing in Nigeria

Nursing student

There are School of Nursing in every State in Nigeria that offers academic and practical training for students to become Nurses.

Nigeria’s School of Nursing program is three (3) years for the Basic Nursing program.

Nigeria’s Nursing and Midwifery Council regulate admission, accreditation, and graduation from the College of Nursing.

The following is the list of the types of schools of Nursing in Nigeria;

  • School of Nursing (Basic)
  • Post Basic Peri-Operative Nursing
  • Cardiothoracic Nursing School
  • Community Midwifery Programme
  • Post Basic Occupational Health Nursing
  • Schools of Post-Basic Nursing Specialties
  • Post Basic Intensive Care Nursing
  • Community Nursing Programme
  • Post Basic Ear, Nose, and Throat Nursing

Now, it is time to get into the main content of this article.

How to Gain Admission Into School of Nursing in Nigeria

The following are tips for gaining admission into the School of Nursing in Nigeria;

  1. O’level Requirements
  2. Age Requirement
  3. Pregnancy Regulation
  4. Know Your Admission Chances
  5. Purchase the School Form
  6. Write the Entrance Exam
  7. Attend the Oral Interview
  8. Submit Your Documents

O’level Requirements

A student with a laptop

The most crucial requirement to gain admission to the School of Nursing is to possess a minimum of five (5) credit passes in the following subjects below in your WAEC or NECO result;

You cannot study Nursing Science at the University or the School of Nursing without credit passes in these subjects.

Art students who wish to become a Nurse must retake the WAEC or NECO exam by including these subjects.

You can combine two O’level results, WAEC or NECO, for admission to the School of Nursing in Nigeria.

Age Requirement

student smiling

Age is a requirement for admission to study at the School of Nursing.

The Nursing profession does not allow underage students to study the course.

As you should know, becoming a nurse in Nigeria takes physical and emotional maturity.

The age requirement to study at any School of Nursing in Nigeria is a minimum of sixteen (16) years.

However, the age requirement for some schools is eighteen (18) years.

Also, some Nursing Schools may have a maximum age requirement say sixty (60) years.

Let me know in the comment if you are unsure of the age requirement for the School of Nursing to you are seeking admission.

Pregnancy Regulation

couple standing together

Pregnancy is an admission requirement for female students to study at the School of Nursing.

Pregnancy at the time of admission is against the policies of the School of Nursing in Nigeria.

I know you are wondering why the discrimination against pregnant students.

It is not discrimination but a policy that is for your good.

Students at the School of Nursing participate in practical sessions at the hospital.

It would be a great danger for pregnant women to attend to patients with infectious diseases.

Also, a pregnant woman cannot pull through the academic stress at nursing school.

Know Your Admission Chances

student studying with a laptop and book

It is necessary to determine your admission chances to the Nursing school you are applying to study.

Some schools of Nursing, mainly the Federal Schools, are more competitive than others.

Also, some Nursing schools would require you to sit for the JAMB UTME examination.

Ensure you apply to a school you stand a good chance for admission.

I recommend you apply to your State School of Nursing. But you can apply to other Schools in Nigeria.

See the list of Schools of Nursing whose admission form is currently available here.

Let me know in the comment if you have any questions about any of the Nursing schools in Nigeria.

Purchase the School Form

A man and a woman looking at a computer screen

Buying the School of Nursing form is the first practical step to gaining admission to the School of Nursing in Nigeria.

Every Nursing school releases its admission form annually to receive prospective students’ applications.

The fee to purchase most School of Nursing admission forms is ten thousand Naira (₦10,000). It can be purchased online or at the school premises.

Ensure you get the form before the expiration.

Write the Entrance Exam

student studying with laptop

Passing the entrance examination for a nursing school is an essential requirement for admission.

Every School of Nursing organizes an entrance examination for students seeking admission in the following subjects;

  • English Language
  • Physics
  • Chemistry
  • Biology
  • Mathematics
  • Current Affairs

Knowing the entrance examination format for the school you want to study basic nursing program is necessary.

Getting a high score in the entrance examination is the requirement to get an invitation for the oral interview before you get the offer for admission.

Let me know in the comment if you are unsure about the entrance examination format.

Attend the Oral Interview

People sitting beside table

The oral interview is the last screening process to gain admission to nursing school.

Only students who performed excellently at the entrance examination get invited for the oral interview screening.

Many students fear the oral exam because it is the time to prove to the examiners they are worthy of studying at nursing school.

At the oral interview, you would encounter personal questions like describing yourself, why you want to study nursing science, etc.

Submit Your Documents

Nigerian student

After gaining admission to the School of Nursing, submitting your documents is the first thing to do.

The following is the list of documents required for admission screening clearance;

  • Birth certificate/declaration of age (original)
  • WAEC/NECO certificate (original)
  • Testimonial for six years (original)
  • Admission letter (original)
  • Local Government or Origin certificate
  • Indigenization certificate (original)
  • Photocopy of all credentials
  • Four passport photographs

Ensure you get these documents ready before the admission screening.

School of Nursing Interview Questions

man and woman looking at a laptop

The questions asked at a School of Nursing interview can vary depending on the institution and the specific program.

However, some common questions that may be asked during a School of Nursing interview include:

  1. Why do you want to become a nurse?
  2. What are your career goals in the nursing field?
  3. What qualities do you think are essential for a nurse to have?
  4. How do you handle stress and challenging situations?
  5. What is your experience working in healthcare or with patients?
  6. How do you manage your time and prioritize tasks?
  7. What do you know about the School of Nursing and its program?
  8. How do you balance the program’s demands with other responsibilities in your life?
  9. What strengths and weaknesses do you bring to the program?
  10. How do you plan to use your nursing education to make a difference in your community?

It’s essential to prepare for the interview by researching the school and program, practising your responses to common interview questions, and being ready to discuss your experiences and goals in the nursing field.

School of Nursing vs Nursing in University

Nursing students

Nursing involves caring for individuals, families, and communities to promote health and prevent illnesses.

It is a noble profession that requires a certain level of training and education to practice. In Nigeria, nursing education is offered in two significant ways: through universities and schools of nursing.

Studying nursing at a university leads to a Bachelor of Nursing Science degree (BNSc) and takes four to five years to complete, depending on the program.

The BNSc program provides a comprehensive education covering theoretical and practical nursing aspects. It includes anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing ethics, and many more courses.

The program also includes clinical rotations in various healthcare settings where students can apply their theoretical knowledge in real-life situations.

On the other hand, studying nursing in a nursing school leads to obtaining a Registered Nurse (RN) certification. Nigeria’s nursing schools offer three-year nursing programs that provide students with the essential knowledge and skills to become competent RNs.

The program is structured to include theoretical and practical aspects of nursing, and students must complete clinical rotations in various healthcare settings.

The difference between having a degree in nursing (BNSc) and RN certification is the level of education and the scope of practice.

RNs are trained to provide direct patient care, such as administering medications, assisting with daily activities, and monitoring vital signs.

However, BNSc degree holders have a broader scope of practice and can work in various areas of healthcare, including nursing research, healthcare management, and education.

In terms of working in Nigeria and abroad, both RNs and BNSc degree holders can work in Nigeria. However, some employers, especially those in developed countries, may require BNSc degree holders for certain nursing positions.

In conclusion, studying nursing at a university and a nursing school are viable options. The decision on which to choose depends on individual preferences and career goals.

It is important to note that nursing is a noble profession, and regardless of the path chosen, the goal should be to provide excellent patient care and promote health and wellness in the community.


I wish you success in becoming a registered nurse in Nigeria.

Let me know if you have any questions or need further clarification. I would love to assist you.

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164 thoughts on “How to Gain Admission Into School of Nursing in Nigeria 2024”

    • No, Mercy

      School of Nursing do not offer degree.

      Depending on the infrastructure of the school, CBT exams is conducted if available.

      So, it depends on the school.

      Reply
  1. Good evening sir/ma
    Am mercy
    I want to know how many years does it take both school of nursing and midwifery to graduate
    Because on my check I found out that most schools of nursing now are being combined together
    Which is the school of nursing and midwifery together
    So all together how many years please

    Reply
    • Mercy,

      It depends on the school in question.

      But, the duration is three (3) years.

      Let me know if you have further questions.

      Reply
  2. Hi Blessing
    Thanks for sharing this vital info. Are there accelerated nursing programs for persons with bachelor’s degree in microbiology here in Nigeria? Please I’d like to know more if yes or what options you think are okay if no

    Reply
      • Hello goodafternoon,and thank you for putting this piece down.Please,i applied for kwara state college of nursing and midwifery,can i get past questions for it.My exam is in august,i just want to read through some p.qs and have an idea of what to expect.Thank you.

        Reply
        • Hello Grace,

          It is nice to hear from you.

          Are you living in Kwara State?

          You can get past questions around the school campus.

          Reply
  3. I applied for a nursing school and I was asked to bring all educational certificates. Does that include my primary school certificate? Because my primary school is not existing again and unfortunately I didn’t collect my testimonial then.

    Reply
  4. Is it possible for someone between the age bracket of 45-50 to study nurse as a course,and can one study a professional course with RN certificate and also travel abroad with it

    Reply
    • Hello,

      Yes, it is possible for someone between the age bracket of 45-50 to study nursing as a course.

      Many nursing programs accept students of various age groups, including mature students who are looking to pursue a career change or further their education.

      The maximum age requirement is usually 65 years.

      Reply
  5. Does it mean I can’t get a job after my graduation in school of nursing.. In Nigeria
    Please throw more lights on school of nursing and nursing in university

    Reply
    • School of Nursing: In Nigeria, a School of Nursing typically offers a three-year nursing program that leads to the award of a Registered Nurse (RN) qualification. This program focuses on practical nursing skills, clinical experience, and theoretical knowledge necessary for entry-level nursing practice. After graduation, you will need to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) to practice as a nurse in the country.

      University Nursing Programs: Universities in Nigeria also offer nursing programs at the undergraduate level, usually as a Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.N.Sc.) degree. These programs typically span a duration of four to five years and provide a more comprehensive and in-depth education in nursing theory, research, and practice. A B.N.Sc. degree can offer broader career opportunities and advanced roles in nursing.

      Job Opportunities: As a nursing graduate, you can find employment in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, community health centers, private practices, and government agencies. There is a high demand for qualified nurses in Nigeria, and job prospects are generally favorable.

      Reply
  6. U only tips us on some questions dat may come across in times of interview, u nv told us about dey main exam what may be there questions in times of they exam day ??

    Reply
  7. Pls I have a B.A in philosophy, and am not a science student but want to do nursing, do I have to write o level or can I use my b.a certificate to apply to a nursing school,pls kindly explain

    Reply
    • Hello Esther,

      Do you have the required subjects in your O’level?

      If no, then you will have to sit again for the O’level exams.

      Reply
  8. I was told when I checked that school of nursing exams registration will take place July/August but when I checked back 2 day I discovered that the deadline for registration has been closed.
    Please will school of nursing exams registration be out again this year

    Reply
  9. Pls I am a social science student, I did Auxiliary Nurse in a pharmacy, I have no ideal on Science subject. And I want to go for school of Nursing, what should I do ?

    Reply
    • The questions asked at a School of Nursing interview can vary depending on the institution and the specific program. However, some common questions that may be asked during a School of Nursing interview include:

      1. Why do you want to become a nurse?
      2. What are your career goals in the nursing field?
      3. What qualities do you think are essential for a nurse?
      4. How do you handle stress and challenging situations?
      5. What is your experience working in healthcare or with patients?
      6. How do you manage your time and prioritize tasks?
      7. What do you know about the School of Nursing and its program?
      8. How do you plan to balance the program’s demands with other responsibilities in your life?
      9. What strengths and weaknesses do you bring to the program?
      10. How do you plan to use your nursing education to make a difference in your community?

      It’s essential to prepare for the interview by researching the school and program, practising your responses to common interview questions, and being ready to discuss your experiences and goals in the nursing field.

      Reply
  10. hello sir, please i have gone through your content and also the questions and answers. my is, please do elaborate more on the different between studying nursing in university and studying it in a school of nursing? like what is the different between having a degree in nursing and RN? like is it just the working in nigeria and working abroad, does it means you can’t work in Nigeria with RN? do throw more light on this pls.

    please if you dont mind i will like your contact because i have alot of question about this course. u can reach me through my email address.
    thank u.

    Reply
    • Hello Perpetua,

      Nursing involves caring for individuals, families, and communities to promote health and prevent illnesses. It is a noble profession that requires a certain level of training and education to practice. In Nigeria, nursing education is offered in two significant ways: through universities and schools of nursing.

      Studying nursing at a university leads to a Bachelor of Nursing Science degree (BNSc) and takes four to five years to complete, depending on the program. The BNSc program provides a comprehensive education covering theoretical and practical nursing aspects. It includes anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing ethics, and many more courses. The program also includes clinical rotations in various healthcare settings where students can apply their theoretical knowledge in real-life situations.

      On the other hand, studying nursing in a nursing school leads to obtaining a Registered Nurse (RN) certification. Nigeria’s nursing schools offer three-year nursing programs that provide students with the essential knowledge and skills to become competent RNs. The program is structured to include theoretical and practical aspects of nursing, and students must complete clinical rotations in various healthcare settings.

      The difference between having a degree in nursing (BNSc) and RN certification is the level of education and the scope of practice. RNs are trained to provide direct patient care, such as administering medications, assisting with daily activities, and monitoring vital signs. However, BNSc degree holders have a broader scope of practice and can work in various areas of healthcare, including nursing research, healthcare management, and education.

      In terms of working in Nigeria and abroad, both RNs and BNSc degree holders can work in Nigeria. However, some employers, especially those in developed countries, may require BNSc degree holders for certain nursing positions.

      In conclusion, studying nursing at a university and a nursing school are viable options. The decision on which to choose depends on individual preferences and career goals. It is important to note that nursing is a noble profession, and regardless of the path chosen, the goal should be to provide excellent patient care and promote health and wellness in the community.

      Reply
  11. Good day Blessing, what is the requirement to study at School of Nursing for a BSc holder (in Microbiology) and what Schools accept BSc for entry

    Reply
  12. Hello, my name is Dura. About the entrance examination, is it a computer based test ?
    And is it also a one time exam or will be taken over the course of days?

    Thanks.

    Reply
  13. Hello!
    So the thing is , I want to study school of nursing, at port-harcourt…. And I don’t have any idea of any nursing school there. Can you please list out few name for me?

    Also..mmm .

    Can’t I write the entrance exam without maths? ….. Am not good at maths?.

    Thanks .

    Reply
  14. Pls ma what subjects will the questions come out from?
    And if you do not have any computer knowledge,how will you one write the entrance exam.

    Reply
    • Tiana,

      PTS is a Preliminary training school exam.

      You cannot afford to fail the exam.

      What school of Nursing are you applying to?

      Reply
  15. Excuse me pls i got a message that jamb has offered me admission into college of nursing obohia abia state and clicked on the link but didn’t see where to accept the admission so i want to know if it works like that or not

    Reply
    • Hello Happiness,

      You can log in to your JAMB CAPS to accept your admission.

      Congratulations, by the way.

      Let me know if you encounter any further difficulties.

      Reply
  16. Hello, I was a science student in secondary school, sat the WASSCE and had credits and distinctions in physics,chemistry, biology, maths and english.
    I went on to university and studied human resources management now I want to go back to school to study nursing. My O’level results were gotten in the year 1999. Would it be accepted or I have to rewrite WASSCE?

    Reply
  17. I have a challenge, I wrote JAMB last year,my score was very okay,but I could not meet up with post UTME REGISTRATION regarding my o level results, I failed physics, now,I registered for GCE and physics is D6,Chemistry is C4,Biology is C3, English is C5,Mathematics is A1.
    Now,I received a message from one college of nursing,saying JAMB has offered me admission,but I need to process it and physics is my challenge.what do I do? Do I still have a chance?

    Reply
    • Jennifer,

      As stated in this post, you will need to sit for the O’level exams to get a minimum credit pass in the relevant subjects.

      Let me know if you have any further questions.

      Reply
  18. Good sir, pls I want to know if after pts a married student can get pregnant and not been expelled from school. Or is it that u will not get pregnant at all until u graduate? Pls I need ur kind answer. Thanks

    Reply
    • Hello Queeneth,

      A married woman is not supposed to get pregnant until after graduation.

      The stress and clinical exposure at the school can affect your child.

      Reply
  19. Hello, pls there said the oral interview is a ringlight to gaining admission, assuming they’re not satisfied with the person will that delay the admission?

    Reply
    • Faithfulness,

      It depends on your performance in the written interview.

      You should be able to answer some questions in the oral interview to stand a chance for admission.

      Let me know if you have any further questions.

      Reply
  20. I don’t have chemistry in my o’level result and I would like to study nursing Will I take it in the school of nursing

    Reply
  21. Good morning ma
    Please I will like you to help me with updates
    So that I can pick up form before deadline

    Please can you help me with some past questions for the school of nursing entrance examination ?

    Reply
  22. Good morning ma
    Please I will like you to help me with updates
    So that I can pick up form before deadline

    Please can you help me with some past questions ?

    Reply
  23. Good day, sir, I’m a student at Ahmadu Bello University studying fishery and aquaculture, I’m supposed to e in 400l by now but due to the strike and corona stuffs, I am still in 200l first semester, I wrote school of the nursing exam during the strike and I have been given admission, but I’m still contemplating on either going for the nursing or continue the fishery, please advice me sir. I’m considering job after studying too.

    Reply
    • Hello Roffy,

      It is nice to hear from you.

      I will advise you to attend the School of Nursing.

      There are more opportunities for Nurses in Nigeria or abroad.

      Reply
    • Yetty,

      It is nice to hear from you.

      You will have to sit for the O’level exam to get Biology.

      It is a compulsory subject for Nursing.

      Reply
  24. My name is Amarachi, i am from imo state,mbano. I want to enter the school of nursing emekuku, owerri. what am i required to have ?

    Reply

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