In Nigeria, Nursing remains one of the most sought-after healthcare courses selected by candidates seeking admission into higher institution, and every year, thousands of students apply to various Colleges of Nursing across the country. With the increasing demand for qualified nurses both locally and internationally, gaining admission into a reputable nursing school cannot be overemphasized.
Students seeking admission into colleges of Nursing are often confused with the differences between colleges of nursing and schools of Nursing. One of the most common questions prospective students ask is: “What is the cut-off mark for Colleges of Nursing in Nigeria?” This article provides a clear and updated overview to help you understand what to expect in the 2026/2027 admission cycle.

Understanding Cut-Off Marks for Nursing Colleges
Unlike universities, where admission is largely based on JAMB scores and centralized policies set by bodies like the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, Colleges of Nursing operate slightly differently.
Most nursing colleges in Nigeria do not rely solely on JAMB. Instead, they use a combination of:
- JAMB scores (for some institutions)
- Internal entrance examinations – Some institutions use just internal examination as a means of admission candidates. This involves setting questions
- Oral interviews – This involves being examined by a board or panel of judges. This type of admission pattern is most dreaded by candidates, not because its the most difficult, but because candidates are caught off guard based on questions and timing.
However, a general benchmark still exists. For the 2026 admission year, the minimum JAMB cut-off mark for Colleges of Nursing is around 150. This does not guarantee admission, but it makes candidates eligible to apply. which is why it is advisable candidates score high because the higher your score the higher your chances of gaining admission.
General Cut-Off Mark Range
To give you a clearer picture, here’s how cut-off marks are typically structured:
- 150 – 150: Minimum eligibility for many private and less competitive schools
- 150 – 170: Common range for most state colleges of nursing
- 170 – 200+: Competitive range for federal and teaching hospital nursing schools
As stated above, the higher your score, the better your chances of securing admission, especially into top institutions.
Federal & Teaching Hospital Nursing Colleges
- Lagos State College of Nursing (LASCON), Igando
- Cut-off: 180+ (competitive)
- School of Nursing, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan
- Cut-off: 180 – 200+
- Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria – School of Nursing
- Cut-off: 170 – 180+
- University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu – School of Nursing
- Cut-off: 180+
- University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) School of Nursing
- Cut-off: 180+
- Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) School of Nursing
- Cut-off: 180 – 200
State Colleges of Nursing
- Oyo State College of Nursing and Midwifery, Eleyele
- Cut-off: 160 – 180
- Ekiti State College of Nursing Sciences
- Cut-off: 160+
- Kwara State College of Nursing, Ilorin
- Cut-off: 160 – 170
- Delta State College of Nursing Sciences
- Cut-off: 160+
- Kano State College of Nursing and Midwifery
- Cut-off: 150 – 160
- Anambra State College of Nursing Sciences
- Cut-off: 160 – 170
Private Colleges of Nursing
- ECWA School of Nursing, Egbe
- Cut-off: 150 – 160
- Mater School of Nursing, Ebonyi
- Cut-off: 150+
- School of Nursing, Iyi-Enu (Mission Hospital)
- Cut-off: 150 – 160
Important Note
- Nigeria has 300+ approved nursing institutions
- Most schools:
- Don’t rely on JAMB alone
- Use internal entrance exams + interviews
- Cut-off marks change every year
Summary
| Category | Cut-Off Range |
|---|---|
| Federal / Teaching Hospitals | 180 – 200+ |
| State Colleges | 150 – 180 |
| Private Colleges | 150 – 160 |
| Official Minimum (JAMB) | 150 |
Please feel free to reach us via the comment section below if you have any question(s) as regards College of Nursing cut off marks in Nigeria and I will respond swiftly.