Best Schools of Nursing in Nigeria without JAMB : Not everyone makes it through JAMB, and that doesn’t mean your dreams should end there. If you’ve been passionate about becoming a nurse but JAMB has been a roadblock, you’re not alone. You can still become a qualified nurse in Nigeria without writing JAMB.
There are many schools of nursing that admits students directly based on their WAEC or NECO results and they are accredited as well. These schools don’t require JAMB or UTME scores, just your dedication, the right qualifications, and a willingness to learn.
In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the best nursing schools in Nigeria that doesn’t require JAMB including their requirements, what they offer, application fees and why they should be considered.
Can You Study Nursing Without JAMB?
There are quite a number of nursing schools in Nigeria that don’t require JAMB to gain admission. These are usually hospital-based or college-run institutions, and they’re fully approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
Instead of going through JAMB, these schools conduct their own entrance exams. Once you’re admitted, you’ll go through a three-year basic nursing programme. After that, you’ll be eligible to take the NMCN licensing exam, and if you pass, you’ll officially become a Registered Nurse (RN).
Why Choose a School of Nursing That Doesn’t Require JAMB?
There are so many good reasons why many students take this path:
- No unnecessary delays: You don’t have to stress over JAMB scores or wait another year to try again.
- Straightforward admission: Your O’Level results (WAEC or NECO) and performance in the school’s entrance exam are all you need.
- Hands-on training: These schools are often attached to big hospitals, so you’ll get real, practical experience while learning.
- Faster path to becoming a nurse: In just three years, you can qualify and become a Registered Nurse (RN).
Top Schools of Nursing in Nigeria That Don’t Require JAMB in 2025
If you’re looking to become a nurse without going through the JAMB process, here’s a carefully selected list of some of the best schools that offer that opportunity. These institutions are fully accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) and are known for producing well-trained, highly skilled nurses.
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Lagos State School of Nursing, Igando
Official Website: lasuth.org.ng
Location: Igando, Lagos State
Affiliated Hospital: Alimosho General Hospital
Duration of Program: 3 years
Application Form Fee: ₦10,000 – ₦12,500
Requirements:
- A minimum of five credits in English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics (in WAEC, NECO, or GCE in not more than two sittings)
- Must be at least 17 years old
How to Get In: Admission is through the school’s own entrance examination, no JAMB required.
Why This School Stands Out: This is one of the most competitive and well-respected nursing schools in the South-West. With modern teaching facilities, experienced instructors, and strong support from the Lagos State government, it’s a great choice for anyone serious about building a nursing career.
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UCH School of Nursing, Ibadan
Official Website: uch-ibadan.org.ng
Location: Ibadan, Oyo State
Full Name: University College Hospital School of Nursing
Program Duration: 3 years
Form Fee: ₦7,000 – ₦10,000
Requirements:
- Minimum of five credits in core science subjects (English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics) in not more than two sittings
- Must be at least 17 years old
Admission Process: Internal entrance exam followed by an interview, no JAMB required.
Why It Stands Out: UCH is Nigeria’s first teaching hospital, and its nursing school has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence. Graduates from here are well-respected and often in high demand.
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OAUTHC School of Nursing, Ile-Ife
Official Website: oauthc.com
Location: Ile-Ife, Osun State
Affiliated With: Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex
Program Duration: 3 years
Form Fee: ₦10,000 – ₦15,000
Requirements:
- Five credits in WAEC/NECO/GCE including English, Maths, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
- Minimum age: 17 years
Admission Process: Entrance exam and oral interview (no JAMB involved)
Why it’s a Great Choice: OAUTHC is widely recognized for its strong academic structure and top-tier clinical experience. It’s a competitive school that produces high-quality nurses.
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School of Nursing, LUTH (Lagos University Teaching Hospital)
Official Website: luth.gov.ng
Location: Idi-Araba, Lagos State
Affiliated Hospital: LUTH
Program Duration: 3 years
Form Fee: Around ₦10,000
Requirements:
- At least five O’Level credits in science-related subjects
- Minimum age: 17 years
Admission Process: School’s internal entrance exam, JAMB not required
What Makes It Special: Located in one of the busiest and most advanced hospitals in Nigeria, LUTH offers students an exceptional level of hands-on training and exposure to real-world clinical scenarios.
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ABUTH School of Nursing, Zaria
Official Website: luth.gov.ng
Location: Zaria, Kaduna State
Full Name: Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital School of Nursing
Program Duration: 3 years
Form Fee: ₦6,000 – ₦8,000
Requirements:
- Five credits in core science subjects
- Must meet age requirements (usually 17+)
Admission Process: School’s own entrance exam, JAMB not needed
Why Consider ABUTH: With a long history of excellence, ABUTH is known for delivering solid nursing education and producing graduates who consistently pass their NMCN exams.
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ECWA School of Nursing, Egbe
Official Website: ecwasonegbe.net
Location: Egbe, Kogi State
Program: Basic Nursing (3 years)
Form Fee: ₦12,500
Requirements:
- Five O’Level credits in core science subjects
- Must be at least 17 years old
Admission Process: School-conducted entrance examination
Why It’s Unique: ECWA School of Nursing offers a mission-driven, faith-based approach to nursing. It’s well-suited for students who value discipline, strong moral standards, and a close-knit community, especially those in the Middle Belt region.
When Do Nursing Schools Without JAMB Start Selling Forms?
Generally, most nursing schools that don’t require JAMB begin selling their application forms between March and July each year. The entrance exams usually take place between May and August, depending on the school.
If you pass the exam and interview, the admission lists are typically released between August and October. So, it’s a good idea to start checking your preferred school’s website or social media pages early in the year, around February or March, to avoid missing deadlines.
Step-by-Step Process of Applying to a Nursing School Without JAMB
Applying is quite straightforward. Here’s how to go about it:
- Visit the school’s official website – This is where you’ll find the correct and up-to-date information.
- Follow the application instructions carefully – Some schools have downloadable guidelines, others have the process fully online.
- Pay the application fee – Usually done through Remita or the school’s specified bank.
- Fill out the application form – Provide accurate details and upload the required documents.
- Print your exam slip – You’ll need this for the entrance exam day.
- Get ready for the entrance exam – Start studying early so you’re not caught off guard.
Pro Tip: Apply as early as possible and make sure the email and phone number you use are active, you’ll get important updates through them.
What to Expect in the Entrance Exam
Most nursing school entrance exams test your knowledge in:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
Extra Tip: Some schools may also throw in Current Affairs and Aptitude Tests to assess your awareness and reasoning skills. If you do well, you’ll be shortlisted and invited for an oral interview, which is usually the final stage before admission.
What Happens After Graduation?
Once you’ve successfully completed the 3-year Basic Nursing program and passed the licensing exam:
- You’ll officially become a Registered Nurse (RN).
- You’ll be qualified to work in hospitals, clinics, NGOs, health centres, and even abroad.
- You can choose to advance your career by enrolling in:
A Post Basic Nursing specialty (like midwifery, psychiatric nursing, anesthetic nursing, etc.), Or pursue a university degree (BNSc) through direct entry into a nursing program.
Final Thoughts:
If JAMB has been a roadblock for you, or you just prefer a more direct and practical route into the healthcare world, then going through a school of nursing without JAMB is a smart choice.
These schools are not shortcuts, they offer real, solid training that prepares you for a career in nursing. You’ll finish as a licensed nurse, fully equipped to serve, save lives, and make a real impact.
With dedication, discipline, and a genuine passion for helping others, you’ll thrive in this field. Your journey might not be conventional, but it can still lead to greatness.
