JAMB Cut Off Mark for Nursing 2025/2026 in Nigeria | Nursing Admission Requirements
Are you applying for nursing programs in Nigeria for the 2025/2026 academic session? One of the most important pieces of information you need before applying to any university or institution offering nursing is the JAMB cut off mark for nursing. This guide provides an up-to-date breakdown of the minimum UTME score required, additional entry requirements, screening processes, departmental benchmarks, and helpful tips to boost your chances of admission.
Nursing remains one of the most competitive healthcare courses in Nigeria, with high demand across both federal and state institutions. As such, understanding the JAMB cut off mark, departmental requirements, and what schools are looking for will make your application process smoother and more strategic.
Contents
- 1 What Is the JAMB Cut Off Mark for Nursing 2025/2026?
- 2 Why the Cut-Off Mark Matters
- 3 Minimum UTME Subjects for Nursing
- 4 O-Level Requirements for Nursing Admission
- 5 Screening and Post-UTME Requirements
- 6 JAMB Cut Off Mark by Institution
- 7 Tips to Improve Your Chances of Admission
- 8 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 8.1 What is the JAMB cut off Mark for Nursing in 2025/2026?
- 8.2 Does Scoring 160 Guarantee Admission into Nursing?
- 8.3 Can I apply for Nursing with Awaiting Results?
- 8.4 Are Private Universities Less Competitive for Nursing?
- 8.5 Can I combine JAMB and Post-UTME scores for Nursing Admission?
- 8.6 What subjects are required for UTME Nursing Applications?
What Is the JAMB Cut Off Mark for Nursing 2025/2026?
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) sets a baseline score that all candidates must achieve to be considered eligible for admission into undergraduate programs, including nursing. For the 2025/2026 academic session, the approved JAMB cut-off mark for nursing is 160 and above.
This means that to qualify for the next stage of admission into nursing at any recognized Nigerian university, polytechnic, or college of nursing, you must score at least 160 in the UTME.
However, meeting this minimum score does not guarantee automatic admission. It only makes you eligible to participate in the institution’s screening exercise or Post-UTME assessment, which plays a crucial role in the final admission decision.
Why the Cut-Off Mark Matters
The JAMB cut-off mark determines whether you are officially eligible to be screened by universities offering the nursing program. Nursing admission is competitive, and schools typically use the cut off score as a threshold requirement.
After you score the minimum score:
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Your result becomes valid for nursing admission.
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You become eligible to register for the screening or Post-UTME.
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Higher UTME scores give you an edge over other applicants, especially in more competitive institutions.
Minimum UTME Subjects for Nursing
To be fully qualified for nursing admission, you must have chosen the correct UTME subject combination. The required subjects typically include:
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English Language
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Any other relevant science subject (e.g., Physics or Mathematics)
Your UTME results must reflect these subjects because meeting the cut-off mark alone is not enough; you must also satisfy the subject requirements.
O-Level Requirements for Nursing Admission
In addition to the JAMB cut-off mark, nursing applicants must satisfy the following O’Level requirements:
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At least five (5) credits in relevant subjects
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Credits must include:
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English Language
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Mathematics
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Other subjects such as Physics or Geography may also be required depending on the institution.
These credits must be obtained in not more than two sittings.
Screening and Post-UTME Requirements
Most Nigerian universities and colleges offering nursing will conduct a screening exercise, which may include:
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Verification of documents
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Post-UTME aptitude test (for some institutions)
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Interview (occasionally used by some schools)
During screening, you will be required to present original copies of your JAMB result slip, O’Level result(s), birth certificate/age declaration, and passport photographs.
Some universities may also require a Post-UTME score, which may be combined with your UTME score to determine final ranking and admission offers.
JAMB Cut Off Mark by Institution
Different institutions may request slightly higher standards than the minimum JAMB requirement, especially for competitive nursing programs. Below are typical expectations:
Federal Universities
| S/N | University Name | JAMB Cut-Off Mark |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | 230 and above |
| 2 | University of Lagos (UNILAG) | 240 and above |
| 3 | University of Ibadan (UI) | 250 and above |
| 4 | University of Calabar (UNICAL) | 270 and above |
| 5 | University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) | 240 and above |
| 6 | Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | 220 and above |
| 7 | Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria | 230 and above |
| 8 | University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) | 180 and above |
| 9 | University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) | 180 and above |
| 10 | University of Jos (UNIJOS) | 220 and above |
| 11 | University of Uyo (UNIUYO) | 240 and above |
| 12 | University of Benin (UNIBEN) | 250 and above |
| 13 | Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO) | 270 and above |
| 14 | Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare (FUHSA) | 160 and above |
| 15 | Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila Orangun (FUHSIO) | 160 and above |
| 16 | Federal University, Lafia (FULAFIA) | 170 and above |
| 17 | Federal University, Lokoja (FULOKOJA) | 150 and above |
| 18 | Federal University, Kashere (FUKASHERE) | 150 and above |
| 19 | Federal University, Dutse (FUDUTSE) | 150 and above |
| 20 | Federal University Gashua (FUGASHUA) | 160 and above |
State Universities
| S/N | University Name | JAMB Cut-Off Mark |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lagos State University (LASU) | 220 and above |
| 2 | Imo State University (IMSU) | 220 and above |
| 3 | Benue State University (BSU) | 230 and above |
| 4 | University of Medical Sciences, Ondo State (UNIMED) | 200 and above |
| 5 | Kaduna State University (KASU) | 200 and above |
| 6 | Enugu State University (ESUT) | 200 and above |
| 7 | Osun State University (UNIOSUN) | 200 and above |
| 8 | Abia State University (ABSU) | 220 and above |
| 9 | Ambrose Alli University (AAU) | 220 and above |
| 10 | Delta State University (DELSU) | 200 and above |
| 11 | Zamfara State University (ZAMSU) | 200 and above |
| 12 | Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) | 250 and above |
| 13 | Ekiti State University (EKSU) | 200 and above |
| 14 | Ebonyi State University (EBSU) | 170 and above |
| 15 | Rivers State University (RSU) | 220 and above |
Private Universities
| S/N | University Name | JAMB Cut-Off Mark |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Babcock University | 170 and above |
| 2 | Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) | 200 and above |
| 3 | Madonna University | 180 and above |
| 4 | Redeemer’s University | 180 and above |
| 5 | Lead City University | 180 and above |
| 6 | Igbinedion University Okada | 180 and above |
| 7 | Bowen University | 180 and above |
| 8 | Benson Idahosa University | 180 and above |
| 9 | Adeleke University | 160 and above |
| 10 | Achievers University | 160 and above |
| 11 | Al-Hikmah University | 220 and above |
| 12 | Chrisland University | 160 and above |
| 13 | Oduduwa University | 160 and above |
| 14 | Clifford University | 180 and above |
| 15 | Atiba University, Oyo | 200 and above |
| 16 | Rhema University | 160 and above |
| 17 | Novena University | 180 and above |
| 18 | Bingham University | 180 and above |
| 19 | Pamo University | 180 and above |
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Admission
Securing admission into a nursing program requires more than just meeting the basic requirements. Here are some strategic tips:
1. Aim for a High UTME Score
Although 160 is the minimum requirement, scoring well above it (e.g., 180+) increases your competitive advantage.
2. Prepare for the Screening or Post-UTME
Take the internal screening or Post-UTME test seriously, as many schools use this score to rank applicants.
3. Ensure Accurate O’Level Subjects
Make sure your O’Level results include Biology and Chemistry with credit passes.
4. Check School-Specific Requirements
Each institution may have unique requirements such as interviews, additional tests, or preferred subject combinations.
5. Stay Updated on Admission Timelines
Admission timelines vary, so always check official school portals or contact the admissions office for deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the JAMB cut off Mark for Nursing in 2025/2026?
The minimum JAMB UTME score required for nursing in Nigeria for the 2025/2026 academic session is 160.
Does Scoring 160 Guarantee Admission into Nursing?
No. Scoring 160 makes you eligible for screening, but admission depends on institutional requirements, screening results, and available spaces.
Can I apply for Nursing with Awaiting Results?
Some institutions accept awaiting results for screening, but final admission is conditional on presenting full results before registration deadlines.
Are Private Universities Less Competitive for Nursing?
Private universities may have lower minimum cut off marks, but admission can still be competitive due to limited slots.
Can I combine JAMB and Post-UTME scores for Nursing Admission?
Yes. Many institutions combine your UTME and Post-UTME/screening results to determine your final ranking for admission.
What subjects are required for UTME Nursing Applications?
You are typically required to sit for:
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English Language
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Any other relevant science subject
Conclusion
Understanding the JAMB cut off mark for nursing 2025/2026 is one of the first and most important steps toward successfully gaining admission. While the minimum UTME requirement is 160, achieving higher scores, preparing thoroughly for screenings, and meeting all subject and O’Level requirements will significantly improve your chances of being offered admission into nursing programs in Nigeria.
