Are you passionate about healthcare and considering a career in nursing? Choosing the right list of schools of Nursing in Nigeria is one of the most important decisions you’ll make toward building a rewarding healthcare career. With over 150 accredited nursing schools across Nigeria’s 36 states and FCT, understanding your options, their fee structures, and admission requirements is crucial for making an informed choice.
Nursing remains one of the most respected and in-demand professions in Nigeria, offering job security, career advancement opportunities, and the satisfaction of saving lives. Whether you dream of working in prestigious Nigerian hospitals, international healthcare facilities, or pursuing advanced nursing specialisations, your journey begins with selecting the right training institution.
This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about Schools of Nursing in Nigeria in 2026—from complete lists organised by state and type, to current school fees, admission requirements, accreditation status, and financial planning strategies.
What you’ll discover in this guide:
- Complete list of nursing schools across all 36 states + FCT
- Current school fees for federal, state, and private institutions
- Breakdown of tuition, acceptance fees, and hidden costs
- Admission requirements and application process
- Accreditation and quality indicators
- Federal vs. State vs. Private nursing schools comparison
- Top-ranked nursing schools in Nigeria
- Scholarship and financial aid opportunities
- Career prospects after graduation
- Frequently asked questions
- Expert tips for choosing the right school
Whether you’re a JAMB candidate, seeking direct entry admission, or planning for a family member’s nursing education, this guide provides the detailed information you need to make the best decision.
🏥 Understanding Nursing Education in Nigeria
Types of Nursing Programs
1. Basic Nursing Program (RN – Registered Nurse)
- Duration: 3 years
- Entry Requirement: SSCE/WAEC with 5 credits (including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- Qualification: Registered Nurse (RN)
- Regulatory Body: Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN)
2. Midwifery Program (RM – Registered Midwife)
- Duration: 18 months (post-basic nursing)
- Entry Requirement: Registered Nurse certificate
- Qualification: Registered Midwife (RM)
3. Post-Basic Nursing Specialisations
- Duration: 12-18 months
- Specialisations: Perioperative (Theatre), Orthopaedic, Pediatric, Psychiatric, Public Health, etc.
- Entry Requirement: RN certificate + experience
4. Nursing Degree Programs (B.NSc)
- Duration: 4-5 years
- Institution Type: Universities
- Entry: JAMB UTME
- Qualification: Bachelor of Nursing Science
Regulatory Framework
Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN)
- Established: 1979
- Function: Regulates nursing education and practice
- Accreditation: Approves and monitors nursing schools
- Registration: Licenses qualified nurses to practice
Accreditation Importance:
✅ Only NMCN-accredited schools produce recognised nurses
✅ Graduates from unaccredited schools cannot practice legally
✅ Always verify the school’s accreditation status before applying
💰 Overview of Nursing School Fees in Nigeria (2026)
Fee Structure Categories
Federal Schools of Nursing:
- Tuition Range: ₦50,000 – ₦150,000 per session
- Total First Year: ₦150,000 – ₦300,000
- Characteristics: Most affordable, competitive admission, quality training
State Schools of Nursing:
- Tuition Range: ₦100,000 – ₦350,000 per session
- Total First Year: ₦200,000 – ₦500,000
- Variation: Depends on state funding and policies
Private Schools of Nursing:
- Tuition Range: ₦300,000 – ₦800,000 per session
- Total First Year: ₦500,000 – ₦1,200,000
- Characteristics: Higher fees, sometimes better facilities, easier admission
Missionary/Faith-Based Schools:
- Tuition Range: ₦250,000 – ₦600,000 per session
- Total First Year: ₦400,000 – ₦900,000
- Characteristics: Moderate fees, values-based training
Complete Fee Breakdown Components
Typical First Year Costs:
| Fee Component | Amount Range (₦) |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Fee | 20,000 – 80,000 |
| Tuition Fee | 50,000 – 600,000 |
| Registration Fee | 10,000 – 30,000 |
| Development Levy | 20,000 – 100,000 |
| Medical Fee | 5,000 – 20,000 |
| Library Fee | 5,000 – 15,000 |
| Laboratory/Practical Fee | 20,000 – 80,000 |
| Examination Fee | 10,000 – 30,000 |
| ID Card & Materials | 5,000 – 15,000 |
| Uniform (Nursing whites, shoes) | 30,000 – 80,000 |
| Textbooks & Materials | 50,000 – 150,000 |
| Accommodation (if hostel) | 50,000 – 200,000 |
| Feeding (annual estimate) | 200,000 – 400,000 |
| TOTAL FIRST YEAR | 475,000 – 1,800,000 |
Subsequent Years (Returning Students):
- Generally 20-30% lower (no acceptance, reduced registration fees)
- Range: ₦300,000 – ₦1,200,000 annually
3-Year Program Total Investment:
- Federal Schools: ₦800,000 – ₦1,500,000
- State Schools: ₦1,200,000 – ₦2,500,000
- Private Schools: ₦2,000,000 – ₦4,500,000
📋 COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF NURSING SCHOOLS IN NIGERIA BY STATE
Note: Fees listed are approximate 2026 estimates. Always verify current fees directly with institutions before applying.
FEDERAL SCHOOLS OF NURSING IN NIGERIA
Federal nursing schools are operated by the Federal Ministry of Health and Federal Medical Centers across Nigeria.
1. School of Nursing, National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos
- Location: Lagos State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦70,000 – ₦100,000
- Total First Year: ₦250,000 – ₦350,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
- Speciality: General Nursing, Orthopaedic Nursing (Post-basic)
2. School of Nursing, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan
- Location: Oyo State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦80,000 – ₦120,000
- Total First Year: ₦280,000 – ₦400,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
- Quality Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Excellent)
- Note: Highly competitive, prestigious
3. School of Nursing, University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH)
- Location: Edo State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦75,000 – ₦110,000
- Total First Year: ₦270,000 – ₦380,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
- Programs: Basic Nursing, Post-Basic specialisations
4. School of Nursing, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria
- Location: Kaduna State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦70,000 – ₦100,000
- Total First Year: ₦250,000 – ₦350,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
5. School of Nursing, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu
- Location: Enugu State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦75,000 – ₦115,000
- Total First Year: ₦275,000 – ₦390,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
6. School of Nursing, National Hospital, Abuja
- Location: FCT Abuja
- Tuition (Annual): ₦90,000 – ₦130,000
- Total First Year: ₦300,000 – ₦430,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
- Note: Capital location, excellent facilities
7. School of Nursing, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH)
- Location: Kwara State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦70,000 – ₦105,000
- Total First Year: ₦260,000 – ₦370,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
8. School of Nursing, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH)
- Location: Borno State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦60,000 – ₦90,000
- Total First Year: ₦230,000 – ₦320,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
9. School of Nursing, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH)
- Location: Cross River State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦70,000 – ₦100,000
- Total First Year: ₦250,000 – ₦350,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
10. School of Nursing, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi
- Location: Anambra State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦75,000 – ₦110,000
- Total First Year: ₦270,000 – ₦380,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
11. School of Nursing, Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta
- Location: Ogun State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦65,000 – ₦95,000
- Total First Year: ₦240,000 – ₦340,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
12. School of Nursing, Federal Medical Centre, Owerri
- Location: Imo State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦65,000 – ₦95,000
- Total First Year: ₦240,000 – ₦340,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
13. School of Nursing, Federal Medical Centre, Keffi
- Location: Nasarawa State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦60,000 – ₦90,000
- Total First Year: ₦230,000 – ₦320,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
14. School of Nursing, Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi
- Location: Benue State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦60,000 – ₦90,000
- Total First Year: ₦230,000 – ₦320,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
15. School of Nursing, Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo
- Location: Taraba State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦60,000 – ₦85,000
- Total First Year: ₦220,000 – ₦310,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
STATE SCHOOLS OF NURSING (SELECTED MAJOR INSTITUTIONS)
LAGOS STATE
1. Lagos State School of Nursing, Igando
- Tuition (Annual): ₦150,000 – ₦250,000
- Total First Year: ₦350,000 – ₦500,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
- Note: One of Nigeria’s largest nursing schools
Check LASU School Fees Here
2. Lagos State School of Nursing, Eti-Osa
- Tuition (Annual): ₦150,000 – ₦250,000
- Total First Year: ₦350,000 – ₦500,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
3. School of Nursing, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja
- Tuition (Annual): ₦180,000 – ₦280,000
- Total First Year: ₦400,000 – ₦550,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
RIVERS STATE
4. School of Nursing, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital
- Tuition (Annual): ₦120,000 – ₦200,000
- Total First Year: ₦320,000 – ₦450,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
5. Rivers State School of Nursing, Port Harcourt
- Tuition (Annual): ₦100,000 – ₦180,000
- Total First Year: ₦300,000 – ₦430,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
ANAMBRA STATE
6. School of Nursing, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi
- Tuition (Annual): ₦120,000 – ₦190,000
- Total First Year: ₦320,000 – ₦440,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
7. Anambra State School of Nursing, Onitsha
- Tuition (Annual): ₦110,000 – ₦180,000
- Total First Year: ₦310,000 – ₦430,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
KANO STATE
8. School of Nursing, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital
- Tuition (Annual): ₦80,000 – ₦130,000
- Total First Year: ₦270,000 – ₦380,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
9. Kano State School of Nursing and Midwifery
- Tuition (Annual): ₦90,000 – ₦150,000
- Total First Year: ₦280,000 – ₦400,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
KADUNA STATE
10. Kaduna State School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kafanchan
- Tuition (Annual): ₦85,000 – ₦140,000
- Total First Year: ₦275,000 – ₦390,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
11. School of Nursing, Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, Kaduna
- Tuition (Annual): ₦90,000 – ₦145,000
- Total First Year: ₦280,000 – ₦395,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
OYO STAT
12. Oyo State School of Nursing, Eleyele, Ibadan
- Tuition (Annual): ₦110,000 – ₦180,000
- Total First Year: ₦310,000 – ₦430,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
13. School of Nursing, Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo
- Tuition (Annual): ₦100,000 – ₦160,000
- Total First Year: ₦300,000 – ₦410,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
DELTA STATE
14. Delta State School of Nursing, Sapele
- Tuition (Annual): ₦95,000 – ₦160,000
- Total First Year: ₦290,000 – ₦410,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
15. School of Nursing, Federal Medical Centre, Asaba
- Tuition (Annual): ₦100,000 – ₦165,000
- Total First Year: ₦300,000 – ₦415,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
EDO STATE
16. Edo State School of Nursing, Benin City
- Tuition (Annual): ₦105,000 – ₦175,000
- Total First Year: ₦305,000 – ₦425,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
17. School of Nursing, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital
- Tuition (Annual): ₦100,000 – ₦170,000
- Total First Year: ₦300,000 – ₦420,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
OSUN STATE
18. Osun State School of Nursing, Osogbo
- Tuition (Annual): ₦100,000 – ₦165,000
- Total First Year: ₦300,000 – ₦415,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
19. School of Nursing, LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso
- Tuition (Annual): ₦105,000 – ₦170,000
- Total First Year: ₦305,000 – ₦420,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
ENUGU STATE
20. Enugu State School of Nursing, Enugu
- Tuition (Annual): ₦110,000 – ₦180,000
- Total First Year: ₦310,000 – ₦430,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
21. School of Nursing, Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Parklane
- Tuition (Annual): ₦115,000 – ₦185,000
- Total First Year: ₦315,000 – ₦435,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
PRIVATE SCHOOLS OF NURSING (SELECTED MAJOR INSTITUTIONS)
1. Babcock University School of Nursing, Ogun State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦500,000 – ₦700,000
- Total First Year: ₦900,000 – ₦1,200,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
- Type: Seventh-Day Adventist (Missionary)
- Quality Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Excellent facilities, international standards)
2. Madonna University School of Nursing, Anambra State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦400,000 – ₦600,000
- Total First Year: ₦750,000 – ₦1,000,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
- Type: Catholic (Missionary)
3. Adventist School of Nursing, Ile-Ife, Osun State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦350,000 – ₦550,000
- Total First Year: ₦650,000 – ₦900,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
- Type: Seventh-Day Adventist
4. Baptist Medical Centre School of Nursing, Ogbomoso, Oyo State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦300,000 – ₦500,000
- Total First Year: ₦600,000 – ₦850,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
- Type: Baptist (Missionary)
5. Wesley Guild Hospital School of Nursing, Ilesha, Osun State
- Tuition (Annual): ₦280,000 – ₦480,000
- Total First Year: ₦580,000 – ₦830,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
- Type: Methodist (Missionary)
6. Seventh Day Adventist Hospital School of Nursing, Ile-Ife
- Tuition (Annual): ₦320,000 – ₦520,000
- Total First Year: ₦620,000 – ₦870,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
7. St. Gerard’s Catholic Hospital School of Nursing, Kaduna
- Tuition (Annual): ₦300,000 – ₦500,000
- Total First Year: ₦600,000 – ₦850,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
- Type: Catholic
8. Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital School of Nursing, Bauchi
- Tuition (Annual): ₦150,000 – ₦250,000
- Total First Year: ₦400,000 – ₦550,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
9. School of Nursing, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki
- Tuition (Annual): ₦140,000 – ₦230,000
- Total First Year: ₦380,000 – ₦530,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
10. Our Lady of Apostles Hospital School of Nursing, Akwanga, Nasarawa
- Tuition (Annual): ₦280,000 – ₦460,000
- Total First Year: ₦580,000 – ₦810,000
- Accreditation: NMCN Accredited
- Type: Catholic
🎓 Admission Requirements for Nursing Schools in Nigeria
Basic Nursing Program Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications:
SSCE/WAEC/NECO (Minimum):
- 5 Credits in one or two sittings
- Compulsory Subjects:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Alternative Qualifications:
- GCE O’Level (equivalent to WAEC)
- NABTEB
- NECO
Age Requirement:
- Minimum: 17 years (by October of admission year)
- Maximum: Varies (usually 25-35 years, depending on school)
Application Process
Step 1: Obtain Application Form
- Methods:
- Online (school website)
- Physical purchase at school
- Designated banks
- Cost: ₦5,000 – ₦15,000
Step 2: Complete Application
- Fill the form accurately
- Attach required documents:
- Birth certificate/age declaration
- O’Level results (original + photocopies)
- Local Government of Origin certificate
- Passport photographs (usually 4-6 copies)
- Medical fitness certificate (sometimes)
Step 3: Submit Application
- Online submission (if available)
- Physical submission to school
- Note deadline (usually April – July)
Step 4: Entrance Examination
- Subjects Tested:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- General Knowledge
- Format: Multiple choice, sometimes essay
- Passing Score: Varies (usually 50%+)
Step 5: Interview/Screening
- Shortlisted candidates invited
- Assess communication, appearance and motivation
- Medical screening (sometimes)
Step 6: Admission Offer
- Successful candidates receive an admission letter
- Accept within the specified timeframe
- Pay the acceptance fee
Step 7: Registration
- Submit original documents
- Pay school fees
- Medical screening
- Commence training
Special Admission Considerations
Direct Entry (DE):
- For candidates with higher qualifications (ND, NCE in health-related fields)
- May gain admission into the 200 level (some schools)
- Requirements vary by institution
Mature Entry:
- For candidates above the typical age (30+ years)
- Special examination and interview
- Limited slots
💡 How to Choose the Right Nursing School
Key Factors to Consider
1. Accreditation Status
- Verify with NMCN (www.nmcn.gov.ng)
- Only attend accredited schools
- Graduates from unaccredited schools cannot practice
2. Location
- Proximity to home (reduces costs)
- Safety and security of the area
- Access to clinical facilities
3. Affordability
- Total cost within budget
- Payment plan availability
- Scholarship opportunities
4. Quality of Training
- Teaching hospital affiliation
- Qualified lecturers and instructors
- Modern facilities and equipment
- Student-to-instructor ratio
5. Clinical Experience
- Quality of affiliated hospitals
- Variety of clinical postings
- Hands-on training opportunities
6. Accommodation
- On-campus hostel availability
- Off-campus housing options
- Safety of the surrounding area
7. Graduate Success Rate
- NMCN licensing exam pass rate
- Employment rate after graduation
- Alumni testimonials
8. Reputation
- School’s standing in the nursing community
- Employer perception
- Historical performance
Federal vs. State vs. Private: Comparison
| Factor | Federal Schools | State Schools | Private Schools |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | ₦50K-150K | ₦100K-350K | ₦300K-800K |
| Total Cost (3 yrs) | ₦800K-1.5M | ₦1.2M-2.5M | ₦2M-4.5M |
| Admission Competition | Very High | High | Moderate |
| Quality | Excellent | Good to Excellent | Good to Excellent |
| Facilities | Good | Variable | Often Excellent |
| Class Size | Large | Medium to Large | Small to Medium |
| Flexibility | Moderate | Moderate | High |
| Strike Frequency | Occasional | Rare | Very Rare |
Best Value: Federal schools (quality + affordability)
Best Facilities: Top private schools (Babcock, Madonna)
Best for Quick Admission: Private schools (less competitive)
💰 Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarship Options for Nursing Students
1. Federal Government Scholarships
- Nigerian Nursing Education Scholarship
- Eligibility: Excellent academic record, financial need
- Coverage: Partial to full tuition
- Application: Through the Federal Ministry of Education
- Website: scholarships.fmoe.gov.ng
2. State Government Scholarships
- Many states offer scholarships to indigenes
- Examples:
- Lagos State Scholarship Board
- Rivers State Scholarship
- Kano State Bursary
- Eligibility: State of origin, academic merit
- Coverage: ₦50,000 – ₦200,000 annually
3. Hospital/Health Institution Sponsorships
- Some teaching hospitals sponsor students
- Condition: Work for a hospital post-qualification (2-5 years bonding)
- Coverage: Full or partial tuition + stipend
4. Private Organisation Scholarships
- Shell Nigeria Scholarship
- Focus: Niger Delta students
- Coverage: Full tuition + stipend
- Website: www.shell.com.ng
- MTN Foundation Scholarship
- Open to all Nigerian students
- Coverage: ₦200,000 annually
- Website: mtnfoundation.org
- Jim Ovia Foundation
- For outstanding students
- Coverage: Significant financial support
- Website: jimovia.org
5. Faith-Based Scholarships
- Church scholarships (Catholic, Anglican, Baptist, etc.)
- Mosque-sponsored programs
- Eligibility: Membership, financial need, academics
6. School-Specific Scholarships
- Many nursing schools offer merit/need-based awards
- Inquire during the admission process
How to Apply for Nursing Scholarships
Application Steps:
- Research available scholarships (start early – Jan-June)
- Check eligibility requirements carefully
- Gather required documents:
- Academic transcripts/results
- Admission letter
- Financial need statement
- Recommendation letters
- State of origin certificate
- Write a compelling personal statement
- Submit before the deadline
- Follow up professionally
- Prepare for interviews (if shortlisted)
Tips for Success:
✅ Apply to multiple scholarships (increase chances)
✅ Meet all eligibility criteria before applying
✅ Submit well before the deadline
✅ Proofread application (no errors)
✅ Get strong recommendation letters
✅ Highlight community service and leadership
✅ Be honest about financial need
✅ Follow up respectfully
📊 Career Prospects After Nursing School
Employment Opportunities
Healthcare Facilities:
- Federal/State/Private Hospitals
- Teaching Hospitals
- Specialist Hospitals
- Primary Health Centres
- Maternity Homes
- Clinics (private practice)
Non-Clinical Roles:
- Nursing education (lecturing)
- Health administration
- Public health programs
- NGO/humanitarian work
- Research positions
International Opportunities:
- UK (high demand, good pathway)
- USA (NCLEX-RN exam required)
- Canada (RN pathway to residency)
- Middle East (Saudi, UAE – tax-free salaries)
- Australia
Salary Expectations (Nigeria)
Entry-Level RN (2026):
- Federal Hospitals: ₦70,000 – ₦120,000 monthly
- State Hospitals: ₦60,000 – ₦100,000 monthly
- Private Hospitals: ₦50,000 – ₦150,000 monthly
Mid-Career (5-10 years):
- ₦150,000 – ₦350,000 monthly
Senior Positions (Matron, Chief Nursing Officer):
- ₦300,000 – ₦600,000+ monthly
International (UK/USA/Canada):
- £25,000 – £40,000 annually (UK)
- $50,000 – $80,000 annually (USA)
- Much higher purchasing power than Nigeria
Further Education and Specialisation
Post-Basic Programs (18 months):
- Midwifery (RM)
- Perioperative Nursing (Theatre)
- Pediatric Nursing
- Psychiatric Nursing
- Public Health Nursing
- Critical Care
Bachelor’s Degree (B.NSc):
- 4-5 years (JAMB entry) or 3 years (direct entry for RNs)
- Universities offering Nursing degrees nationwide
Master’s Degree (M.Sc Nursing):
- Specialisations: Nursing Education, Administration, Clinical specialities
- 18-24 months
- Enhanced career prospects
PhD in Nursing:
- Academic and research focus
- 3-5 years
- Leads to professorship and high-level positions
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much is nursing school fees in Nigeria?
Fees vary by school type:
- Federal Schools: ₦50,000 – ₦150,000 per session (₦800K – ₦1.5M for 3 years)
- State Schools: ₦100,000 – ₦350,000 per session (₦1.2M – ₦2.5M for 3 years)
- Private Schools: ₦300,000 – ₦800,000 per session (₦2M – ₦4.5M for 3 years)
Total includes tuition, accommodation, feeding, books, uniforms, and other expenses.
2. What are the requirements to study nursing in Nigeria?
Minimum Requirements:
- 5 O’Level credits (English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- Age: 17-25 years (varies by school)
- Medical fitness
- Pass the entrance exam and interview
- NMCN-accredited school admission
3. How long is nursing school in Nigeria?
Basic Nursing (RN): 3 years
Midwifery (RM): 18 months (after RN)
Post-Basic Specialisations: 12-18 months
Nursing Degree (B.NSc): 4-5 years (university)
4. Which is the best nursing school in Nigeria?
Top-Ranked Nursing Schools (2026):
Federal:
- School of Nursing, UCH Ibadan
- School of Nursing, National Hospital, Abuja
- School of Nursing, UBTH Benin
State:
- Lagos State Schools of Nursing
- Rivers State School of Nursing
Private:
- Babcock University School of Nursing
- Madonna University School of Nursing
Criteria: Accreditation, facilities, pass rates and graduate employment
5. Can I study nursing without JAMB?
Yes. Nursing schools (diploma programs) don’t require JAMB.
What you need:
- O’Level results (5 credits)
- School’s entrance examination
- Interview/screening
JAMB is required for:
- University nursing degree programs (B.NSc)
6. Are there scholarships for nursing students in Nigeria?
Yes. Multiple scholarship opportunities:
- Federal Government scholarships
- State government bursaries
- Hospital sponsorships (with bonding)
- Private organisations (Shell, MTN, Jim Ovia Foundation)
- Faith-based scholarships
- School-specific awards
Application: Research and apply early (January – June)
7. Can I work while studying nursing?
Challenging but possible:
Considerations:
- Nursing training is intensive (theory + clinical)
- Long hours at hospital postings
- Night duties during training
- Academic workload demanding
Realistic Options:
- Weekend/holiday jobs
- Online/remote work (flexible hours)
- School breaks employment
Not Recommended: Full-time work (will compromise training)
8. What is the difference between RN and RM?
RN (Registered Nurse):
- 3-year basic nursing program
- General nursing care (all patient types)
- Entry: O-Level results
RM (Registered Midwife):
- 18-month post-basic program
- Specialises in maternal/child health, deliveries
- Entry: Must be RN first
Many nurses pursue RN + RM (dual qualification)
9. Can I travel abroad after nursing school in Nigeria?
Yes. Nigerian nursing qualifications are internationally recognised (with conditions):
UK: Strong pathway (many NHS jobs for Nigerian nurses)
USA: Pass the NCLEX-RN exam, licensing requirements
Canada: Bridge programs, RN assessment
Middle East: Direct employment (Saudi, UAE, Qatar)
Australia: Skill assessment and registration
Requirements vary by country—research early if international practice is your goal.
10. Is nursing a good career in Nigeria?
Yes, for many reasons:
Pros:
✅ Job security (high demand)
✅ Decent salaries (especially government)
✅ Career growth opportunities
✅ International mobility (travel/work abroad)
✅ Respected profession
✅ Fulfilling work (saving lives)
✅ Specialisation options
Cons:
⚠️ Demanding work (long hours, night shifts)
⚠️ Emotional stress (patient care challenges)
⚠️ Initial lower salaries (private sector)
⚠️ Healthcare system challenges in Nigeria
Overall: Excellent career choice for passionate, dedicated individuals.
✅ Final Checklist: Applying to Nursing School
6 Months Before:
✅ Research nursing schools (location, fees, accreditation)
✅ Verify NMCN accreditation status
✅ Start saving for fees
✅ Explore scholarship opportunities
✅ Confirm O’Level results meet requirements
3 Months Before:
✅ Purchase application forms (usually April-June)
✅ Gather required documents (birth cert, results, photos)
✅ Prepare for the entrance exam (study Biology, Chemistry, English, Maths)
✅ Apply for scholarships
1 Month Before Exam:
✅ Intensify exam preparation
✅ Practice past questions
✅ Arrange accommodation (if exam is far)
✅ Medical check-up (fitness certificate)
After Admission:
✅ Pay acceptance fee promptly
✅ Arrange accommodation (hostel or off-campus)
✅ Budget for uniforms, textbooks, materials
✅ Plan finances for 3 years
✅ Mentally prepare for rigorous training
✅ Join nursing student communities (support network)
🎓 Conclusion: Your Nursing Career Starts Here
Choosing to study nursing is a noble decision—you’re committing to a career of service, healing, and making a tangible difference in people’s lives. Nigeria’s nursing schools, from affordable federal institutions to well-equipped private colleges, offer high-quality training that prepares you for successful practice both locally and internationally.
Key Takeaways
Financial Reality:
- Federal schools: Most affordable (₦800K – ₦1.5M total)
- State schools: Moderate (₦1.2M – ₦2.5M total)
- Private schools: Premium (₦2M – ₦4.5M total)
- Scholarships available: Apply widely to reduce the burden
Choosing Wisely:
✅ Verify NMCN accreditation (non-negotiable)
✅ Consider location and affordability
✅ Assess quality (facilities, pass rates, reputation)
✅ Visit schools physically (if possible)
✅ Compare multiple options before deciding
Your Success Formula:
- Strong Academic Foundation (5 O’Level credits including sciences)
- Thorough Research (school options, fees, requirements)
- Early Application (don’t miss deadlines)
- Financial Planning (fees + living expenses for 3 years)
- Scholarship Applications (reduce financial burden)
- Dedication and Passion (nursing is demanding but rewarding)
- Professional Mindset (from day one)
The Road Ahead
Your 3-year nursing journey will be challenging—early mornings, long clinical hours, demanding exams, and emotional patient care experiences. But it’s also deeply rewarding. Every skill you learn, every patient you help, every life you touch makes it worthwhile.
After graduation, you’ll have:
- Recognised qualification (RN)
- Multiple career pathways
- Job security and decent income
- International opportunities
- Lifelong skills and purpose
- Respect as a healthcare professional
Nigeria needs more skilled, compassionate nurses. The healthcare system, growing population, and international demand mean excellent prospects for committed nursing professionals.
Your journey begins with choosing the right school. Use this guide wisely, make informed decisions, and embark confidently on your nursing career path.
Welcome to the noble profession of nursing. Your patients are waiting. 💉🩺
Disclaimer: This guide provides comprehensive information about Schools of Nursing in Nigeria and their fees based on 2026 data. Fees, admission requirements, and policies are subject to change by institutions. Always verify current information directly with schools and NMCN before making decisions. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, educational or financial advice. Prospective students should conduct independent research and make decisions based on individual circumstances.