Universities with the Lowest Cut-Off Marks for Nursing in Nigeria 2026/2027

Selection of the correct institution to study nursing can be a very tough decision especially when looking at the admission cut-off Mark for these institutions.

 In Nigeria, different universities have different cut-off marks for their nursing programs. Some universities are characterized by having the lowest cut-off marks for 2026 thus making them preferable to people aspiring to become nurses.

What is Cut-Off Marks

It is important that we highlight what we mean by a cut-off mark before going through this list. A cut-off mark is defined as the least score that a candidate must attain in his or her JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculations Board) examination before being qualified to apply for admission into any particular university course. 

However, this figure varies among tertiary institutions offering nursing but generally falls between one hundred eighty and two hundred.

Universities with the Lowest Cut-Off Marks for Nursing in Nigeria 2026/2027

Universities with the Lowest Cut-Off Marks for Nursing

1. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK):

 UNIZIK has one of the lowest cut-off marks for nursing in Nigeria specifically in Anambra State where it is located. 

For Nursing Science at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), you need a minimum JAMB score of 200 to be eligible to apply for the Post-UTME screening. However, due to the high competition, your final UNIZIK departmental aggregate (calculated from your JAMB and Post-UTME) typically needs to be 270 or higher to secure admission.

2. Lagos State University

LASU, LASU's official JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing is 250 and above. However, admission is highly competitive, and your final selection depends on a cumulative aggregate score (combining your JAMB score and O'Level grades via the LASU Admission Screening Portal)

 It has a good medical faculty and well-developed laboratory facilities.

3. Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS):

The official UTME cut-off mark for Nursing Science at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUSOK) is 240.

Because of high competition, scoring exactly 240 in your JAMB may not guarantee admission depending on your catchment area or ELDS status. To confirm your specific requirements, visit the Myschool News Portal for the full breakdown of departmental cut-off marks.

4. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)

UNIMAID, found in Borno State also set the cut off points for nursing at 220. The admission process into their Nursing programme is less competitive compared to other Universities making it favorable to many students.

The University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) requires a minimum JAMB score of 220 for Merit candidates and 200 for ELDS (Educationally Less Developed States) or catchment area candidates to study Nursing Science.

5. University of Benin (UNIBEN)

UNIBEN in Edo State has a cut-off mark of 200 for nursing. This university has one of the best programs in the country and as such, it encompasses all areas that prepare individuals entering healthcare industry.

The official minimum JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) is 200. However, Nursing is a highly competitive course, and candidates generally need a combined aggregate score of 70% to 75% (often translating to a JAMB score of 240+ and a high post-UTME score) to secure admission.

6. Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK)

FUBK had among the lowest cutoff marks of all time; Nursing/Nursing Science

Merit: 220
ELDS: 210
Catchment: 200

was needed by those who wanted to study Nursing there. This was a welcome decision because it meant that ‘average’ students who may not have performed exceptionally well but were still passionate enough about becoming nurses could now opt for this institution and fulfill their dreams.

7. Rivers State University (RSU): 

Another worthy option with a cut off mark standing at around 200. RSU is popular for its high standard education and practical nursing programs.

8. Abia State University (ABSU): 

ABSU also made it to my list, with a cut off point of 200. Not as cheap as FUBK or RSU but still more reasonable in terms of other schools that have set their bar over 200.

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Factors Affecting Cut-Off Marks

A number of things come into play when deciding the cut-off points for the nursing programs in the Nigerian universities.

• Students’ General Performance: The general performance of students in JAMB UTME can have an impact on cut-off marks. When a lot of students perform well, there might be a need to raise the minimum marks to manage the large numbers of applicants.

• Degree of Competition: High demand for nursing programs can result in high cut-off points. Conversely, less competitive courses may have reduced cut-off marks.

• Availability of Places: In addition, spots available in a particular program also determine cut-off marks. Limited places and a huge number of applicants tend to yield rise in cut off points.

Guidelines for Aspiring Nursing Students

Conduct Adequate Research: Find out about different universities and their corresponding nursing admission requirements that you need to meet or surpass. Visit JAMB’s website as well as those of specific universities.

Prepare Well for JAMB UTME: Plan to score maximum possible mark /points during your JAMB UTME so that you can reach or exceed set thresholds.

Keep Alternatives Open: Look for several varsities with various range of cutoffs so that you will have something if your first choice’s cutoff is not met by you.

 

Keep Updated: Always visit this website (Studentportals.com.ng) to see the latest cut off marks and admission requirements as they do change every year. Follow us by clicking here so that you don't miss any information from Studentportals!

Key Considerations When Choosing a Nursing School

Although cut-off marks are important, what are the other factors that should be considered when choosing a university to study nursing in:

Accreditation: Confirm that the school’s nursing program has been accredited by relevant boards in nursing and medicine for meeting the required education standards.

Infrastructure: Are there modern laboratories, simulation centers and collaboration with reputable hospitals so that students can learn hands-on?

Faculty: Quality education depends on having experienced and competent faculty members. Therefore, find out if they have enough lecturers and clinical instructors.

Reputation: The reputation of the institution itself along with its nursing course might define your future career path. It is necessary to know how successful the university has been in producing competitive nurses for employment opportunities.

Read: GAPOSA Student Portal Create Account

 FAQs

What is the 2026 JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing?

The nursing official 2026 JAMB cut-off mark is usually around 200. However, some universities have pegged their marks lower to make more people apply.

Which university has the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing?

Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Lagos State University, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, University of Maiduguri, University of Benin, Abia State University (ABSU), Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK) and Rivers State University (RSU).

What are the four subjects required in JAMB for nursing?

The four subjects needed for nursing in JAMB examination include English, Mathematics, Biology and Chemistry.

How many years does it take to study nursing in Nigerian universities?

In Nigerian universities a typical duration of a degree program in nursing is five years.

Can I study nursing in Nigerian universities without JAMB?

Yes, some tertiary institutions offer remedial or pre-degree programs that will enable students gain entry into the department of nursing without having to go through the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board exams.

Q: How does a university determine its nursing program’s cutoff mark?

A: It is based on factors such as the applicants’ general JAMB performance, how competitive it is and how many spaces are available in that program.

Q: Can there be changes in cut-off marks annually?

A: Yes, cut-off marks can vary from one year to another depending on the aforementioned factors.

Q: Is it possible to gain admission into the school even though I scored below their required point?

A: This may not happen but you may choose to apply for universities with lower cut-offs or other pathways like diplomas programs.

Q: What should I do if I want to increase my likelihood of being admitted?

A: You should concentrate more on getting high scores in your JAMB UTME, research different universities and try participating in relevant healthcare activities as part of your application process

Conclusion

If you are searching for universities with the lowest cut-off marks for Nursing in Nigeria, it is important to understand that meeting the minimum JAMB cut-off mark does not automatically guarantee admission. Nursing remains one of the most competitive courses in the country, and many universities admit candidates with scores far above their official minimum requirements.

When choosing a university, do not focus only on the cut-off mark. Consider factors such as accreditation, teaching facilities, availability of teaching hospitals, quality of lecturers, school fees, and the institution's reputation in the healthcare sector.

Most importantly, aim to score as high as possible in your JAMB examination. A higher score increases your chances of gaining admission into Nursing and gives you more options when selecting universities.

I hope this guide has helped you understand the universities that may offer Nursing with relatively lower admission requirements and what to consider before making your choice. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment, and I will do my best to assist you.