Are you eager to pursue a nursing career but struggling with JAMB? The good news is that many accredited nursing institutions in Nigeria admit students through their own entrance examinations. This comprehensive guide covers the Top 20 best School of Nursing in Nigeria without JAMB requirements, helping you find the perfect institution to launch your healthcare career.
JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) examinations can be challenging, and not everyone succeeds on their first or even second attempt. However, this does not mean your nursing dreams must wait. Schools of nursing operate differently from universities and often conduct independent admission processes that bypass JAMB entirely.
This article provides detailed information about each institution, admission requirements, fee structures, and everything you need to secure admission in the 2026/2027 academic session.
Why Consider Nursing Schools Without JAMB?
Before diving into the Top 20 best School of Nursing in Nigeria without JAMB, understanding the advantages of this pathway helps you appreciate your options:
Direct entry into nursing education saves time you might otherwise spend rewriting JAMB. The admission process moves faster since schools control their own timelines. Many students find school-based entrance examinations less stressful than the national JAMB examination.
Nursing schools focus specifically on producing healthcare professionals, offering more specialized training environments. Clinical exposure begins early, and students spend significant time in hospital settings gaining practical experience.
Graduates from accredited nursing schools receive the same Registered Nurse (RN) certification as university nursing graduates. The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) regulates all nursing programs regardless of entry pathway.
General Admission Requirements
While specific requirements vary across institutions, most nursing schools share common admission criteria:
Academic Qualifications
Candidates must possess a minimum of five O’Level credits in relevant subjects obtained in not more than two sittings. Required subjects include English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
WAEC, NECO, GCE, or NABTEB certificates are acceptable. Results awaiting status may qualify you for provisional admission at some institutions.
Age Requirements
Most schools accept candidates between 16 and 25 years at the time of admission. Some institutions extend this limit to 30 years under special circumstances.
Other Requirements
Medical fitness certification from recognized hospitals confirms physical ability to handle nursing demands. Evidence of good moral character through recommendation letters strengthens applications.
Top 20 Best School of Nursing in Nigeria Without JAMB
Here is the comprehensive list of accredited institutions where you can pursue nursing education without JAMB:
1. University College Hospital (UCH) School of Nursing, Ibadan
UCH School of Nursing stands as one of Nigeria’s most prestigious nursing institutions. Located in Ibadan, Oyo State, this school produces highly competent nurses who serve across Nigeria and internationally.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦350,000 – ₦500,000 per session
- Clinical Training: UCH Ibadan
The institution conducts its own entrance examination covering English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and General Knowledge. Successful candidates proceed to oral interviews before final selection.
2. Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) School of Nursing
LUTH School of Nursing enjoys excellent reputation for producing quality nurses. Its location in Lagos provides students with exposure to diverse medical cases and modern healthcare practices.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦400,000 – ₦550,000 per session
- Clinical Training: LUTH and affiliated hospitals
3. University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) School of Nursing, Enugu
This institution serves as a leading nursing school in the South-East region. UNTH School of Nursing combines rigorous academic training with extensive clinical experience.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦280,000 – ₦420,000 per session
- Clinical Training: UNTH Enugu
4. Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH) School of Nursing, Zaria
ABUTH School of Nursing ranks among the Top 20 best School of Nursing in Nigeria without JAMB for students in Northern Nigeria. The institution maintains high standards and produces competent graduates.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦250,000 – ₦380,000 per session
- Clinical Training: ABUTH Zaria
5. University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) School of Nursing
UBTH School of Nursing provides quality nursing education in the South-South region. Students benefit from the hospital’s diverse patient population and specialized departments.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦300,000 – ₦450,000 per session
- Clinical Training: UBTH Benin City
6. University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) School of Nursing
UPTH School of Nursing offers excellent training opportunities in Rivers State. The institution’s connection to the oil and gas industry creates additional career pathways for graduates.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦320,000 – ₦480,000 per session
- Clinical Training: UPTH Port Harcourt
7. Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital (OAUTH) School of Nursing, Ile-Ife
OAUTH School of Nursing provides comprehensive nursing education in a serene academic environment. The school maintains strong emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦290,000 – ₦430,000 per session
- Clinical Training: OAUTH Ile-Ife
8. Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) School of Nursing
JUTH School of Nursing serves students from the Middle Belt region and beyond. The institution offers quality training at relatively affordable fees.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦260,000 – ₦390,000 per session
- Clinical Training: JUTH Jos
9. National Orthopaedic Hospital School of Nursing, Igbobi, Lagos
This specialized institution trains nurses with particular expertise in orthopedic care. Graduates find excellent employment opportunities in orthopedic departments nationwide.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦350,000 – ₦480,000 per session
- Clinical Training: National Orthopaedic Hospital Igbobi
10. Federal Medical Centre School of Nursing, Owo
FMC Owo School of Nursing provides quality nursing education in Ondo State. The institution maintains affordable fees while delivering comprehensive training.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦240,000 – ₦360,000 per session
- Clinical Training: FMC Owo
11. Federal Medical Centre School of Nursing, Umuahia
This institution ranks among the Top 20 best School of Nursing in Nigeria without JAMB in the South-East. FMC Umuahia produces competent nurses serving across healthcare facilities.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦230,000 – ₦350,000 per session
- Clinical Training: FMC Umuahia
12. Sacred Heart Hospital School of Nursing, Lantoro, Abeokuta
This mission-owned institution combines nursing education with strong ethical foundations. Sacred Heart Hospital School of Nursing maintains excellent graduate outcomes.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦280,000 – ₦400,000 per session
- Clinical Training: Sacred Heart Hospital Abeokuta
13. Baptist Medical Centre School of Nursing, Ogbomoso
Baptist Medical Centre provides faith-based nursing education with emphasis on compassionate care. The institution enjoys strong reputation in Oyo State and beyond.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦270,000 – ₦390,000 per session
- Clinical Training: Baptist Medical Centre Ogbomoso
14. State Hospital School of Nursing, Abeokuta
This Ogun State government institution offers affordable nursing education to indigenes and non-indigenes. The school maintains full accreditation and produces quality graduates.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦200,000 – ₦320,000 per session
- Clinical Training: State Hospital Abeokuta
15. School of Nursing, Ijebu-Ode
Another excellent institution in Ogun State, School of Nursing Ijebu-Ode provides comprehensive training for aspiring nurses. The school conducts its own entrance examination annually.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦210,000 – ₦330,000 per session
- Clinical Training: General Hospital Ijebu-Ode
16. Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital School of Nursing, Nnewi
NAUTH School of Nursing provides quality nursing education in Anambra State. The institution maintains strong clinical partnerships and produces competent graduates.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦290,000 – ₦420,000 per session
- Clinical Training: NAUTH Nnewi
17. Federal Medical Centre School of Nursing, Makurdi
FMC Makurdi School of Nursing serves students from Benue State and neighboring regions. The institution offers quality training at competitive fees.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦220,000 – ₦340,000 per session
- Clinical Training: FMC Makurdi
18. School of Nursing, Birnin-Kebbi
This institution provides nursing education in Kebbi State. School of Nursing Birnin-Kebbi offers affordable fees for students from the North-West region.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦180,000 – ₦280,000 per session
- Clinical Training: Federal Medical Centre Birnin-Kebbi
19. School of Nursing, Gwagwalada, Abuja
Located in the Federal Capital Territory, this institution offers nursing education with access to multiple healthcare facilities in Abuja.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦300,000 – ₦450,000 per session
- Clinical Training: University of Abuja Teaching Hospital
20. School of Nursing, Mkar, Benue State
Completing our list of Top 20 best School of Nursing in Nigeria without JAMB, School of Nursing Mkar provides mission-based nursing education with strong ethical emphasis.
Key Details:
- Program Duration: 3 years
- Accreditation: Full NMCN accreditation
- Estimated Fees: ₦200,000 – ₦310,000 per session
- Clinical Training: NKST Hospital Mkar
Fee Comparison Table
Here is a summary comparing fees across the Top 20 best School of Nursing in Nigeria without JAMB:
| S/N | Institution | Location | Estimated Annual Fees (₦) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UCH School of Nursing | Ibadan | 350,000 – 500,000 |
| 2 | LUTH School of Nursing | Lagos | 400,000 – 550,000 |
| 3 | UNTH School of Nursing | Enugu | 280,000 – 420,000 |
| 4 | ABUTH School of Nursing | Zaria | 250,000 – 380,000 |
| 5 | UBTH School of Nursing | Benin City | 300,000 – 450,000 |
| 6 | UPTH School of Nursing | Port Harcourt | 320,000 – 480,000 |
| 7 | OAUTH School of Nursing | Ile-Ife | 290,000 – 430,000 |
| 8 | JUTH School of Nursing | Jos | 260,000 – 390,000 |
| 9 | NOH School of Nursing | Lagos | 350,000 – 480,000 |
| 10 | FMC School of Nursing | Owo | 240,000 – 360,000 |
| 11 | FMC School of Nursing | Umuahia | 230,000 – 350,000 |
| 12 | Sacred Heart School of Nursing | Abeokuta | 280,000 – 400,000 |
| 13 | Baptist School of Nursing | Ogbomoso | 270,000 – 390,000 |
| 14 | State Hospital School of Nursing | Abeokuta | 200,000 – 320,000 |
| 15 | School of Nursing | Ijebu-Ode | 210,000 – 330,000 |
| 16 | NAUTH School of Nursing | Nnewi | 290,000 – 420,000 |
| 17 | FMC School of Nursing | Makurdi | 220,000 – 340,000 |
| 18 | School of Nursing | Birnin-Kebbi | 180,000 – 280,000 |
| 19 | School of Nursing | Gwagwalada | 300,000 – 450,000 |
| 20 | School of Nursing | Mkar | 200,000 – 310,000 |
Fees are estimates and subject to annual reviews. Contact institutions for current fee schedules.
Application Process for 2026/2027 Session
Securing admission to any institution among the Top 20 best School of Nursing in Nigeria without JAMB follows similar procedures:
Step 1: Monitor Admission Announcements Schools typically advertise admission opportunities between January and May. Check official school websites, newspapers, and notice boards regularly.
Step 2: Purchase Application Form Forms cost between ₦5,000 and ₦15,000 depending on the institution. Purchase through official channels only to avoid scams.
Step 3: Complete and Submit Application Fill the form accurately with all required information. Attach passport photographs, O’Level results, birth certificate, and local government identification.
Step 4: Prepare for Entrance Examination Study English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics thoroughly. Some schools include General Knowledge and Current Affairs.
Step 5: Write the Entrance Examination Examinations typically occur between April and July. Arrive early, follow instructions carefully, and manage your time effectively.
Step 6: Attend Oral Interview Shortlisted candidates face interview panels assessing communication skills, motivation, and suitability for nursing.
Step 7: Accept Admission Offer Successful candidates receive admission letters. Pay acceptance fees promptly to secure your place.
What to Expect During Training
Students at any school among the Top 20 best School of Nursing in Nigeria without JAMB undergo rigorous training:
First Year
Foundation courses cover anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, and fundamentals of nursing. Students learn basic nursing skills in simulation laboratories before patient contact.
Second Year
Medical-surgical nursing, pharmacology, community health nursing, and mental health nursing dominate the curriculum. Clinical rotations intensify with supervised patient care.
Third Year
Advanced clinical rotations across specialized departments prepare students for independent practice. Research projects, professional ethics, and examination preparation complete the program.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Graduates from any institution among the Top 20 best School of Nursing in Nigeria without JAMB enjoy diverse career pathways:
Government hospitals and health centers across all 36 states employ registered nurses. Private hospitals, clinics, and specialist centers offer competitive salaries, especially in major cities.
Oil and gas companies operating in Nigeria employ industrial nurses with attractive compensation packages. International opportunities exist in countries like the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates.
Further specialization options include midwifery, pediatric nursing, psychiatric nursing, perioperative nursing, intensive care nursing, and accident and emergency nursing.
Tips for Choosing the Right School
Consider these factors when selecting from the Top 20 best School of Nursing in Nigeria without JAMB:
Location: Choose schools you can reasonably access. Consider accommodation availability and transportation costs.
Accreditation Status: Verify current NMCN accreditation before applying. Unaccredited programs cannot produce licensed nurses.
Fee Affordability: Calculate total costs including tuition, accommodation, feeding, and materials. Choose schools within your budget.
Clinical Exposure: Schools attached to larger hospitals offer broader clinical experiences. Research the affiliated healthcare facilities.
Graduate Outcomes: Investigate licensing examination pass rates and employment statistics of recent graduates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do nursing schools in Nigeria accept candidates without JAMB?
Yes. Schools of nursing operate independently and conduct their own entrance examinations. JAMB is not required for basic nursing programs at these institutions.
Are certificates from nursing schools recognized?
Absolutely. Graduates receive Registered Nurse (RN) certification from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria. This certification is nationally and internationally recognized.
Can I proceed to university after nursing school?
Yes. RN certificate holders can pursue Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) degrees through direct entry at universities. Some institutions offer part-time programs for working nurses.
What is the cheapest nursing school in Nigeria?
Schools in northern states generally charge lower fees. School of Nursing Birnin-Kebbi offers some of the lowest fees among accredited institutions.
How long is the nursing program?
Basic nursing programs run for three years. This includes theoretical instruction and supervised clinical practice across various departments.
Is there an age limit for nursing school admission?
Most schools accept candidates between 16 and 25 years. Some institutions consider older applicants on a case-by-case basis.
Can male students apply to nursing schools?
Absolutely. Nursing is open to all genders, and male nurses are increasingly valued in Nigerian healthcare facilities.
When do nursing schools release admission forms?
Most schools release forms between January and May for programs starting in September or October. Monitor official channels for announcements.
Conclusion
This comprehensive guide to the Top 20 best School of Nursing in Nigeria without JAMB provides everything you need to make informed decisions about your nursing education. Each institution offers unique advantages, and your choice should align with your location preferences, financial capacity, and career aspirations.
Nursing remains one of the most respected and employable professions globally. Graduates from Nigerian nursing schools serve with distinction across healthcare facilities worldwide. Your decision to pursue nursing education opens doors to a fulfilling career dedicated to helping others.
Take action today by visiting your preferred institution’s website or administrative office. Gather required documents, prepare for entrance examinations, and submit your application before deadlines. Your dream of becoming a registered nurse starts with this important step.
Do not let JAMB challenges delay your healthcare career. These accredited institutions provide quality nursing education and produce competent professionals ready to serve. Choose wisely, prepare thoroughly, and embrace the rewarding journey ahead.
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