Pursuing a career in nursing is a noble ambition, and for many young Nigerians, gaining admission into a School of Nursing is the first step. Nursing is not just a job; it is a calling to care for the sick, promote health, and contribute to the wellbeing of individuals and communities. This article provides a simplified, step-by-step guide on how to secure admission into a School of Nursing in Nigeria.
What is a School of Nursing?
A School of Nursing in Nigeria is an institution that trains students to become Registered Nurses (RN). These schools operate under the supervision of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), which regulates nursing education and practice in the country.
There are three main types of nursing training institutions in Nigeria:
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Schools of Nursing – Award a Registered Nurse (RN) certificate after 3 years.
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Colleges/Schools of Midwifery – Focus on midwifery, often for those already trained as nurses.
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Universities offering B.Sc. Nursing – Award a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (B.NSc) in 5 years.
This article focuses on the School of Nursing pathway.
Step-by-Step Guide to Gaining Admission
1. Meet the Basic Entry Requirements
To be eligible for admission into a School of Nursing in Nigeria, you must meet the following requirements:
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Age: Most schools require candidates to be at least 17 years old.
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Education: You must possess at least five (5) O’Level credits in relevant subjects.
These subjects include:
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English Language
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Mathematics
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Physics
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These credits must be obtained in not more than two sittings in WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB. Some schools accept a combination of WAEC and NECO but not NABTEB with others. Always check the specific school’s requirements.
These are the same courses you will write in your University and Tetiary Matriculation Exminations (UTME).
You have to score very high, as the cutoff mark for Nursing is above 250 (out of 400) in many institutions.
2. Obtain the School’s Admission Form
Each School of Nursing sells admission forms at certain periods during the year. Admission is not centralized, meaning each school handles its own admission process.
To get the form:
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Visit the official website or admission office of the school.
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Pay the application fee, usually between ₦5,000 to ₦15,000, via bank or online.
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Complete the application form and submit it with required documents (e.g., passport photographs, O’Level result).
Ensure you follow instructions carefully and submit your form before the application deadline.
3. Prepare for the Entrance Examination
After submitting your form, you will be invited for a written entrance exam. This exam tests your knowledge in the core science subjects:
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English Language
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Mathematics
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Physics
To prepare effectively:
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Study your senior secondary school (SSS) textbooks.
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Use past questions from previous nursing school entrance exams.
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Consider joining a coaching class if necessary.
The competition is usually high, so proper preparation is key.
CLICK HERE TO GET SCHOOL OF NURSING PAST QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
4. Attend the Interview and Screening
Candidates who pass the entrance exam are shortlisted for oral interviews and screening. This stage assesses:
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Communication skills
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Appearance and composure
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Originality of credentials
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Medical fitness (you may be required to undergo a medical test)
Prepare for this by:
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Dressing neatly and modestly
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Practicing how to introduce yourself
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Arranging all your documents in a neat file
5. Admission List and Acceptance
Successful candidates will be offered provisional admission and asked to pay acceptance fees. This will be followed by:
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Payment of tuition and other fees
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Registration and documentation
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Orientation and resumption
Note: Admission into nursing schools is very competitive, so gaining admission should be considered a significant achievement.
Additional tips for a Successful Admission
Here are a few helpful tips to improve your chances of gaining admission:
a. Apply to Multiple Schools
Since each school runs its own admission process, applying to multiple institutions increases your chances. However, do not apply blindly; do proper research.
b. Stay Updated
Admission forms are usually advertised on:
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School websites
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Local newspapers
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Health ministry bulletins
Make sure you stay informed by visiting these sources regularly or joining nursing admission groups on platforms like Facebook or WhatsApp.
c. Avoid Admission Scams
Do not fall for anyone who promises you admission in exchange for money. All admissions are based on merit, and any school that sells forms will give you an official receipt.
Duration and Certification
A typical School of Nursing programme lasts for three (3) years. Upon successful completion, students are awarded the Registered Nurse (RN) certificate after passing the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) licensing examination.
Graduates can work as qualified nurses in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings in Nigeria or abroad. Some may proceed to:
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Study midwifery
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Enroll in post-basic nursing programs
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Obtain a B.Sc. in Nursing Science via direct entry
List of Popular Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
Here are some well-known schools of nursing:
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School of Nursing, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan
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Lagos State School of Nursing, Igando
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School of Nursing, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital (OAUTHC)
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School of Nursing, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu
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School of Nursing, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria
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FMC Umuahia School of Nursing
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School of Nursing, LUTH, Idi-Araba, Lagos
Always confirm their admission timelines and requirements from official sources.
Gaining admission into a School of Nursing in Nigeria is a dream many young Nigerians share. The journey requires planning, preparation, and patience. From meeting the basic academic requirements, applying for forms, and sitting for entrance exams to passing the interview stage, every step is vital.
With determination and adequate information, you can begin your journey toward becoming a Registered Nurse and making a difference in the lives of patients and communities.
If you are passionate about caring for others and are ready to work hard, the nursing profession awaits you.