Correct JAMB Cut Off Mark for Nursing 2026/2027:- Choosing Nursing as a course is a solid decision. It’s respectful work and in high demand across Nigeria and beyond. But before you invest time and nerves in UTME prep, you must understand one practical truth: Nursing admissions are governed by two things official minimums set by exam bodies and the higher thresholds set by individual schools. Get that wrong and you could be screened out before Post-UTME. This guide explains the JAMB cut off mark for Nursing 2026/2027, what top schools expect, the O’Level and subject rules, and exactly how to aim your score so you have a real shot at admission.
Why Is JAMB Cut Off Mark for Nursing Important in 2026/2027
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) publishes general guidance, but universities and colleges set departmental or program cut-offs that reflect demand and available slots. For Nursing, that gap matters: some colleges accept a lower baseline; most universities expect substantially higher marks. Know both numbers and plan for the higher one. (JAMB Updates Today)
What is Nursing (B.Sc. Nursing/Nursing Science)?
Nursing or Nursing Science trains students to deliver professional healthcare patient assessment, clinical care, community health, and basic nursing management. Graduates work in hospitals, clinics, public health programs, NGOs, and private practice settings after registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). The program blends classroom theory, lab practice, and clinical attachments. (nmcn.gov.ng)
Why choosing the right JAMB cut off and subject combination matters
If your UTME score falls below a school’s departmental cut off, your name won’t be considered during screening even if you meet O’Level requirements. That’s why meeting the general JAMB minimum is only step one; target the departmental expectations for Nursing at the schools you prefer. Missing this distinction costs applicants every year. (JAMB News Today 2025)
Official JAMB baseline for Nursing (what to expect in 2026/2027)
JAMB’s published baseline for university admission often lands around 180–200 for many programmes, but Nursing has special patterns:
- Colleges of Nursing (nursing schools attached to state/federal health services) sometimes accept lower JAMB scores (historically around 140–180).
- University Nursing Science programs typically require higher scores — many schools set departmental cut offs in the 200–260 range depending on demand.
Treat the lower figures as absolute minimums only. If you aim for a federal or top state university, plan for a JAMB score well above the baseline.
Compulsory JAMB subjects for Nursing
When registering UTME for Nursing, pick the correct subject combination. For Nursing the commonly required JAMB subjects are:
- Use of English (compulsory)
- Biology (core)
- Chemistry (core)
- Physics or Mathematics (depending on the institution; Physics is commonly accepted)
Wrong subject choices can lead to disqualification during screening, so confirm your subjects on JAMB CAPS and the target university portal before the exam. (JAET – Schools and Exams in Nigeria)
O’Level requirements for Nursing (WAEC, NECO, GCE, NABTEB)
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) and most universities require at least five (5) credit passes in O’Level exams, usually in:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology (or Agricultural Science in rare cases)
- Chemistry
- Physics
Credits must be from WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB and are typically allowed across a maximum of two sittings. Some colleges may insist on specific single-board rules; always confirm the target school’s policy.
Other acceptable JAMB subjects and recommended combinations
Most Nursing programs accept these subject choices in UTME:
- Use of English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics safest and most widely accepted.
- Use of English, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics accepted by some institutions.
Check Here to See full details: Best JAMB Subject Combination for Medicine and Surgery 2026/2027
Recommended JAMB Subject Combinations for Nursing
The only safe and correct combination is:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Any other combination is not accepted. avoid combinations that exclude Biology or Chemistry they are core to Nursing admissions.
Correct JAMB Cut Off Mark for Nursing 2026/2027
Below table is the list of university and their JAMB Cut Off Marks for the 2026/2027 Academic session;
Federal Universities Offering Nursing and Their Cut Off Marks
| S/N | University | JAMB Cut Off Mark |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Ibadan | 250 – 270 |
| 2 | University of Lagos | 240 – 260 |
| 3 | University of Nigeria, Nsukka | 230 – 250 |
| 4 | Obafemi Awolowo University | 220 – 240 |
| 5 | University of Ilorin | 230 – 250 |
| 6 | Ahmadu Bello University | 220 – 240 |
| 7 | University of Benin | 240 – 260 |
| 8 | University of Port Harcourt | 200 – 220 |
| 9 | University of Maiduguri | 180 – 200 |
| 10 | University of Calabar | 200 – 220 |
| 11 | Bayero University Kano | 220 – 240 |
| 12 | Federal University Oye-Ekiti | 200 – 220 |
| 13 | Federal University Gusau | 170 – 190 |
| 14 | Federal University Dutse | 160 – 180 |
| 15 | Federal University Birnin Kebbi | 160 – 180 |
State Universities Offering Nursing and Their Cut Off Marks
| S/N | University | JAMB Cut Off Mark |
|---|---|---|
| 16 | Lagos State University | 220 – 240 |
| 17 | Abia State University | 210 – 230 |
| 18 | Benue State University | 220 – 240 |
| 19 | Delta State University | 210 – 230 |
| 20 | Ebonyi State University | 210 – 230 |
| 21 | Rivers State University | 200 – 220 |
| 22 | Gombe State University | 190 – 210 |
| 23 | Kaduna State University | 210 – 230 |
| 24 | Kwara State University | 200 – 220 |
| 25 | Bauchi State University | 190 – 210 |
| 26 | Yobe State University | 180 – 200 |
| 27 | Nasarawa State University | 200 – 220 |
| 28 | University of Medical Sciences, Ondo | 220 – 240 |
Private Universities Offering Nursing and Their Cut Off Marks
| S/N | University | JAMB Cut Off Mark |
|---|---|---|
| 29 | Afe Babalola University | 200 – 220 |
| 30 | Babcock University | 200 – 230 |
| 31 | ECWA Bingham University | 200 – 220 |
| 32 | Achievers University | 180 – 200 |
| 33 | Adeleke University | 180 – 200 |
| 34 | Benson Idahosa University | 200 – 220 |
| 35 | Atiba University | 180 – 200 |
| 36 | Gregory University | 180 – 200 |
| 37 | Koladaisi University | 180 – 200 |
| 38 | Sam Maris University | 180 – 200 |
| 39 | Skyline University | 180 – 200 |
| 40 | Peaceland University | 160 – 180 |
| 41 | Mercy Medical University | 180 – 200 |
Use these ranges as a planning map: if you want a top federal university, target 250+; for safer chances at state/private schools aim 200–230. Exact marks change each year, so confirm on JAMB CAPS and the university portal when results are out.
How Post-UTME and aggregate scoring Affect Admission
Most universities combine UTME, Post-UTME score, and O’Level results into an aggregate score during screening. That means:
- A strong Post-UTME result can raise your aggregate and compensate for a slightly lower UTME.
- Weak O’Level credits (or missing core subjects) can cancel any UTME advantage.
Don’t treat JAMB alone as decisive; prepare for the Post-UTME and make sure your O’Level slides are clean and well ordered. University portals typically publish the weightings (for example, 50% JAMB, 30% Post-UTME, 20% O’Level) check each school’s policy.
Direct Entry requirements for Nursing
If you apply through Direct Entry (HND, OND plus IJMB or ND with premed), typical requirements include:
- A relevant diploma (ND/HND) with good grades or an A-level/IJMB pass in specified subjects.
- Five O’Level credits as noted earlier.
- Some universities require completion of specific science courses or a minimum lower credit in ND/HND.
Direct Entry rules vary widely; always check the target university’s Direct Entry brochure. (OAUTHC)
List of Nigerian schools that commonly offer Nursing
Federal universities, state universities, federal teaching hospitals and dedicated Colleges of Nursing offer Nursing programs. Examples (not exhaustive):
- University of Ibadan (UI) — Nursing Science.
- University of Lagos (UNILAG) — Nursing Science.
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) — Nursing Science.
- Colleges of Nursing attached to teaching hospitals (e.g., UBTH College of Nursing).
- State colleges and private universities also run accredited Nursing programs.
Check whether the program is a B.Sc. degree or a diploma pathway; both exist and have different entry rules.
School-specific rules you must check before applying
Before you finalize choices:
- Confirm the specific JAMB subject combination the school accepts.
- Confirm departmental cut off mark and historical cut off trends.
- Check whether the school accepts two sittings for O’Level and any preferred examination boards.
- Look up the Post-UTME date, format and weightings.
All of these appear on JAMB CAPS and the university’s admission page; rely on those official sources.
what score you should target for 2026/2027
Be realistic and strategic:
- If aiming for a top federal university or high-ranked state university, target 250–280.
- If aiming for solid mid-tier universities, target 220–250.
- If a college of nursing or private option is acceptable, a 180–210 score might be sufficient, but confirm the year’s baseline.
Always aim higher than the published cut off. Competitive programs fill quickly; extra marks improve your aggregate and your chance of being shortlisted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the JAMB cut off mark for Nursing 2026/2027?
There is no single number. JAMB’s baseline often sits between 180–200, but university departmental cuts for Nursing commonly range from 200 to 270 depending on the school. Confirm the specific school you want.
What is the minimum JAMB score required to study Nursing?
Some institutions accept as low as 140–180 for diploma/college pathways, but most university Nursing programs expect 180+ and many require 200–250+. Treat lower figures as minimums, not guarantees.
Can I gain admission into Nursing with a low JAMB score?
Possibly, at some colleges or private schools. For competitive federal universities, a low UTME makes admission unlikely. A strong Post-UTME and clean O’Level can help, but don’t rely on it.
Do all universities have the same cut off mark for Nursing?
No. Each university or college sets its departmental cut off based on demand and available slots. Expect significant variation.
Does Post-UTME affect the cut off mark for Nursing?
Post-UTME contributes to the final aggregate. Universities sometimes publish cut off for shortlist and then higher cut off for final admission. Prepare for both stages.
Which universities accept two sittings for Nursing?
Many universities accept O’Level results in two sittings, but some programs or schools may prefer single-sitting candidates. Always check the school’s admission regulations before you apply.
