Thousands of students apply for Nursing Science every year because it is a respected profession with strong career opportunities both in Nigeria and abroad.
The problem is that Nursing is also one of the most competitive courses to gain admission into.
Many universities receive far more Nursing applications than the number of students they can admit. As a result, admission requirements are usually high. Because of this, many students ask; Which university has the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria?
After reviewing admission records, JAMB admission requirements and historical university cut-off marks, the answer is clear:
State universities generally offer some of the lowest Nursing cut-off marks in Nigeria, while federal universities usually have the highest.
If your JAMB score is not extremely high, there are still universities where you can realistically pursue Nursing Science.
This guide explains the universities that have historically admitted Nursing candidates with lower scores and what you need to know before applying.
The Truth About Nursing Cut-Off Marks in Nigeria
Before looking at the list, there is something every candidate should understand.
The official JAMB benchmark for universities is lower than the actual score required for Nursing admission. Universities are allowed to set their own admission standards, and Nursing departments often require much higher scores because of intense competition.
This means a university may have a general cut-off mark of 150 or 180, but Nursing applicants may need significantly higher scores.
That is why students should focus on Nursing departmental admission trends rather than the university's general cut-off mark.
Top 10 Nigerian Universities with the Lowest Cut-Off Marks for Nursing
The universities below have consistently appeared among institutions where Nursing admission has been more accessible compared to the most competitive federal universities.
Ebonyi State University (EBSU)
Historically, EBSU has been one of the universities with the lowest Nursing admission thresholds among accredited Nursing programmes in Nigeria. Over several admission cycles, candidates with UTME scores from 220 and above have been considered for Nursing Science admission, making EBSU a popular choice for students who may not meet the extremely high requirements of institutions such as UNILAG, UI and OAU. EBSU's Nursing programme remains one of the most sought-after health science programmes in South-East Nigeria, and competition has continued to increase because of growing demand for Nursing education.
Abia State University (ABSU)
ABSU is one of the state universities frequently considered by Nursing applicants. While the university's general admission benchmark has historically been lower, Nursing Science remains a competitive programme. Candidates with scores around 200 to 220 and above have traditionally had stronger admission prospects. ABSU attracts applicants from different parts of Nigeria because of its established Nursing and health sciences programmes.
Delta State University (DELSU)
Delta State University has one of the most established Nursing Science programmes among state universities. Historical admission records and recent departmental admission guides place Nursing Science around 220 and above, which is significantly lower than the requirements often associated with top federal universities. This has made DELSU one of the preferred options for candidates seeking a balance between quality education and realistic admission opportunities.
Ambrose Alli University (AAU)
AAU has long been recognised for producing healthcare professionals. Historical admission patterns show that Nursing applicants with scores of 200 to 220 and above have generally stood a stronger chance of admission. The university remains attractive to candidates looking for alternatives to highly competitive federal institutions.
Benue State University (BSU)
Benue State University has remained a practical option for Nursing applicants. Historical admission trends indicate that candidates with scores from 200 and above often perform better during the admission process. BSU continues to attract applicants from the North-Central region and beyond because of its health-related programmes.
Niger Delta University (NDU)
Niger Delta University has consistently appeared among universities with relatively accessible Nursing admission requirements. Candidates with UTME scores between 200 and 220 and above have historically enjoyed stronger admission prospects. The university's Nursing programme continues to attract students from across the South-South region.
University of Calabar (UNICAL)
UNICAL remains one of the most respected federal universities offering Nursing Science. Although admission is competitive, historical trends place Nursing admission around 220 and above, making it somewhat more accessible than institutions where admitted candidates frequently score above 250. UNICAL remains a strong option for students seeking a federal university Nursing degree.
Bauchi State University
Bauchi State University has become increasingly popular among Nursing applicants. Historical admission trends show that candidates with scores around 180 to 200 and above often have more realistic admission opportunities compared to highly competitive institutions in southern Nigeria.
Taraba State University
Taraba State University is gradually becoming a recognised destination for Nursing candidates. Students with scores of 180 to 200 and above have historically found the university more accessible than many older and more competitive institutions.
Gombe State University
Gombe State University has built a strong reputation in health-related programmes. Historical admission patterns indicate that Nursing candidates with scores from 200 and above generally stand a stronger chance of securing admission. The university continues to attract applicants from different parts of Northern Nigeria.
Comparison Table: Universities With Historically Lower Nursing Cut-Off Marks in Nigeria
| University | Historical Nursing Cut-Off Mark Range | Competition Level |
|---|---|---|
| Ebonyi State University (EBSU) | 220 – 240+ | Moderate |
| Abia State University (ABSU) | 200 – 220+ | Moderate |
| Delta State University (DELSU) | 220 – 240+ | Moderate to High |
| Ambrose Alli University (AAU) | 200 – 220+ | Moderate |
| Benue State University (BSU) | 200 – 220+ | Moderate |
| Niger Delta University (NDU) | 200 – 220+ | Moderate |
| University of Calabar (UNICAL) | 220 – 250+ | High |
| Bauchi State University | 180 – 200+ | Moderate |
| Taraba State University | 180 – 200+ | Moderate |
| Gombe State University | 200 – 220+ | Moderate |
Important Note About These Nursing Cut-Off Marks
The figures above are based on historical admission trends, departmental admission requirements, and previous admission exercises across the listed universities. Nursing Science is one of the most competitive courses in Nigeria, and actual admission requirements can change from one admission year to another depending on the number of applicants, available admission quota, and institutional admission policies.
As a general guide:
- Candidates with 180–199 should focus on universities such as Bauchi State University and Taraba State University.
- Candidates with 200–219 have more options, including ABSU, AAU, BSU, NDU and Gombe State University.
- Candidates with 220–249 are competitive for EBSU, DELSU and UNICAL.
- Candidates with 250 and above have stronger chances across most Nursing programmes in Nigeria, including highly competitive federal universities.
This table helps readers quickly compare universities and identify institutions that have historically admitted Nursing candidates with relatively lower UTME scores.
Universities With Very High Nursing Cut-Off Marks
If your JAMB score is below 230, you should understand that these universities are usually among the most competitive for Nursing:
- University of Lagos
- University of Nigeria
- Obafemi Awolowo University
- University of Ibadan
- Ahmadu Bello University
Many Nursing applicants to these universities target scores above 250 because Nursing is one of the most competitive programmes available.
Can You Study Nursing With 180 in JAMB?
Yes.
Historically, some universities and several colleges of nursing have admitted candidates with scores around 180.
However, candidates should understand that scoring 180 does not automatically guarantee admission.
Admission also depends on:
- Number of applicants
- O'Level grades
- Post-UTME performance
- Available admission quota
- Institutional admission policies
Can You Study Nursing With 200 in JAMB?
Yes.
A score of 200 gives candidates significantly more options.
Many state universities and some federal universities consider candidates within this score range, especially when combined with strong O'Level results.
However, candidates aiming for highly competitive universities should target much higher scores.
What Is a Good JAMB Score for Nursing?
Based on admission trends across Nigeria, candidates stand a stronger chance when they score:
- 220 and above
- 240 and above
- 250 and above
The higher the score, the wider the admission opportunities available.
O'Level Requirements for Nursing
Most universities require at least five credit passes in:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
These subjects are compulsory for Nursing admission.
Schools of Nursing With Lower Admission Requirements
Students should not focus only on universities.
Nigeria also has many Colleges of Nursing Sciences.
The approved minimum benchmark for Colleges of Nursing Sciences is lower than what many universities require for Nursing Science programmes.
For candidates with lower scores, colleges of nursing may provide a more realistic pathway into the nursing profession.
How to Increase Your Chances of Gaining Nursing Admission
Aim Higher Than the Minimum Score
Do not rely on the lowest cut-off mark.
Higher scores always improve admission chances.
Upload O'Level Results Early
Many candidates lose admission because of incomplete records.
Monitor Admission Updates
Keep checking JAMB CAPS and university admission portals.
Consider Less Competitive Universities
Sometimes choosing a less competitive institution can make the difference between gaining admission and waiting another year.
Conclusion
Students searching for the university with the lowest cut-off mark for Nursing often expect a single answer. The reality is that admission requirements change every year.
However, historical admission records consistently show that universities such as Ebonyi State University, Abia State University, Delta State University, Ambrose Alli University, Benue State University and Niger Delta University have been among the institutions with more accessible Nursing admission requirements compared to highly competitive federal universities.
Instead of focusing only on the lowest cut-off mark, candidates should concentrate on obtaining the highest JAMB score possible, securing strong O'Level grades and applying to institutions that match their academic profile.
From my experience covering admission updates and educational opportunities for students, the candidates who gain Nursing admission most successfully are those who combine realistic school choices with strong academic performance.
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