Getting into Nursing in Nigeria is tough. Most universities ask for very high JAMB scores, often 200 and above. But there is good news—some schools accept lower cut-off marks, giving students with lower scores a chance.
This guide will show you:
- The university with the lowest Nursing cut-off mark in 2025/2026.
- Other schools that accept between 150–170.
- Nursing schools that don’t require JAMB.
- Tips to boost your admission chances.
Contents
What Is a Cut-Off Mark?
A cut-off mark is the minimum JAMB score a university accepts for admission into a course.
- If you meet it, you can apply for screening.
- If you fall below it, you won’t be considered.
Nursing is highly competitive. While top schools like UNILAG, UI, UNN, and OAU set their cut-off around 200–250, some universities allow scores as low as 140–170.
University with the Lowest Cut-Off Mark for Nursing (2025/2026)
The university with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria this year is:
Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, Kogi State
- Cut-Off Mark: 140
- Location: Anyigba, Kogi State
- Programme: B.Sc. Nursing
- Admission Type: JAMB + O’Level screening
👉 This makes PAAU the best option for candidates with low JAMB scores who still want to study Nursing.
Other Universities Accepting 150–170 for Nursing
If your score is slightly higher, between 150 and 170, you can also consider:
| University | Cut-Off Mark | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK) | 160 | Federal university, offers B.Sc. Nursing |
| Nasarawa State University (NSUK) | 160–170 | Must be chosen as 1st choice in JAMB |
| Abia State University (ABSU) | 170 | Popular state university |
| Delta State University (DELSU) | 170 | Competitive—aim above 170 for better chance |
Nursing Schools That Do Not Require JAMB
Apart from universities, there are Schools and Colleges of Nursing that run Basic Nursing programmes. These schools do not use JAMB, but instead conduct their own CBT entrance exams.
Examples include:
- Ogun State School of Nursing
- Lagos State College of Nursing
- Bauchi State College of Nursing
- Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital (OAUTH) School of Nursing
Requirements:
- Five O’Level credits (English, Maths, Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- Minimum age: 17 years
- Entrance exam (computer-based)
👉 These schools are a strong backup option if you miss university admission.
How to Improve Your Admission Chances
- Apply early – Schools close portals quickly.
- Be strategic – Don’t apply to UI, UNILAG, UNN, or UNIBEN with <200.
- Target less competitive states – Northern universities often have more flexible cut-offs.
- Get your O’Level ready – Upload your WAEC/NECO/NABTEB to JAMB CAPS immediately.
- Stay updated – Follow school websites and official social media pages.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Choosing Nursing at UNILORIN, OAU, or UNIBEN with a score of 150—you will not be considered.
❌ Waiting until the last day to register for post-UTME.
❌ Forgetting to upload your O’Level results on JAMB CAPS.
Summary Table of Nursing Cut-Off Marks (2025/2026)
| Institution | Cut-Off (Nursing) |
|---|---|
| PAAU (Kogi State) | 140 |
| Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK) | 160 |
| Nasarawa State University (NSUK) | 160–170 |
| Abia State University (ABSU) | 170 |
| Delta State University (DELSU) | 170 |
| Nursing Schools (CBT exam) | No JAMB required |
A JAMB score of 140 can still get you into Nursing—if you apply to the right school.
- For the lowest option, PAAU in Kogi State is your best bet.
- With scores of 150–170, schools like FUBK, NSUK, ABSU, and DELSU are solid choices.
- If you don’t want to depend on JAMB, Schools of Nursing offer another pathway.
👉 Stay focused, act fast, and always confirm updates from official school websites before applying.
