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How To Easily Apply For A Nursing Program In Nigeria

Nursing is a noble and rewarding profession that plays a crucial role in the healthcare sector. In Nigeria, the demand for qualified nurses continues to rise as healthcare services expand. If you’re considering a career in nursing, understanding the application process is essential.

This blog provides a step-by-step guide on how to easily apply for a nursing program in Nigeria, including eligibility requirements, types of nursing programs, accredited institutions, application procedures, and frequently asked questions (FAQs).

Step 1: Understand the Types of Nursing Programs in Nigeria

Before applying, you must understand the various nursing programs available in Nigeria. Each program has different requirements, duration, and certification. The main types of nursing programs include:

1. Basic Nursing Program

• Offered by Schools of Nursing under Teaching Hospitals, State Ministries of Health, and Private Institutions.
• Duration: Three (3) years.
• Leads to the award of Registered Nurse (RN) certification.

2. Basic Midwifery Program

• Available in Schools of Midwifery.
• Duration: Three (3) years.
• Leads to the qualification of Registered Midwife (RM).

3. Post-Basic Nursing Programs

• For individuals already registered as nurses.
• Specialization options include Pediatrics, Anesthetics, Orthopedics, and Psychiatric Nursing.
• Duration: 12-24 months.

4. Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.NSc.)

• Offered by universities in Nigeria.
• Duration: Five (5) years.
• Leads to the award of a B.NSc. degree and RN certification.

Step 2: Meet the Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a nursing program in Nigeria, you must meet specific academic and age requirements. These vary depending on the program.

General Requirements for Schools of Nursing and Midwifery

• Minimum of five (5) O’Level credits in WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB, obtained in not more than two sittings.
• Compulsory subjects: English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry.
• Age requirement: Typically between 17 and 35 years old.

General Requirements for B.NSc. Degree

• Five (5) O’Level credits in relevant subjects (as listed above).
• Must sit for and pass the UTME (JAMB) examination.
• Obtain the required JAMB cut-off mark for nursing.
• Some universities require post-UTME screening.

Step 3: Choose an Accredited Institution

It is essential to apply to accredited institutions recognized by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN)to avoid issues with certification. Some recognized institutions include:

Universities Offering B.NSc. Degree

1. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
2. University of Ibadan (UI)
3. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
5. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

Accredited Schools of Nursing in Nigeria

1. Lagos State School of Nursing, Igando
2. University College Hospital (UCH) School of Nursing, Ibadan
3. School of Nursing, LUTH, Lagos
4. School of Nursing, ABUTH, Zaria
5. FCT School of Nursing, Abuja

For the full list of accredited schools, visit the NMCN website.

Step 4: Application Process

For Schools of Nursing and Midwifery

1. Check Admission Advertisements: Schools of Nursing usually release admission forms between March and September.
2. Obtain the Application Form:
• Forms can be purchased online via the school’s official portal or at designated banks.
3. Fill the Application Form: Provide accurate personal and academic details.
4. Submit Required Documents: These may include:
• O’Level results
• Birth certificate
• Passport photographs
• Application fee payment receipt
5. Write the Entrance Examination: Most schools conduct entrance exams covering English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
6. Attend the Interview: If shortlisted, you will be invited for an oral interview.
7. Admission and Registration: Successful candidates will be given admission letters and required to complete registration.

For B.NSc. Degree Programs

1. Register for JAMB UTME: Select Nursing Science as your preferred course.
2. Meet the Cut-off Mark: Most universities require a minimum JAMB score of 180-200.
3. Apply for Post-UTME Screening: Universities conduct aptitude tests or screenings.
4. Admission List and Registration: If successful, your name will appear on the admission list, and you must complete registration.

Step 5: Tuition Fees and Financial Aid

Estimated Tuition Fees

• Schools of Nursing: ₦150,000 – ₦250,000 per session.
• Universities (B.NSc. Program): ₦100,000 – ₦500,000 per session (varies by institution).

Scholarships and Financial Aid

• Federal and state government scholarships.
• Private organization and NGO scholarships.
• Institutional scholarships for outstanding students.

Step 6: Begin Your Nursing Training

Once admitted, your training will involve both theoretical coursework and practical clinical rotations.

Core Courses in Nursing Programs

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Fundamentals of Nursing
• Pharmacology
• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Community Health Nursing
• Midwifery (for Midwifery programs)

After completing your program, you must sit for the NMCN professional exams to become a licensed nurse.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the age limit for applying to a nursing school in Nigeria?

Most nursing schools accept candidates between 17 and 35 years old. However, some schools may have flexible requirements.

2. Can I apply for a nursing program with two O’Level sittings?

Yes, most nursing schools and universities accept two sittings for WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB.

3. What is the difference between an RN and a B.NSc.?

• RN (Registered Nurse): Obtained from Schools of Nursing (3 years).
• B.NSc. (Bachelor of Nursing Science): A university degree (5 years) that includes RN certification.

4. Do I need to write JAMB to apply for nursing?

• For Schools of Nursing: No, JAMB is not required.
• For B.NSc. Degree: Yes, JAMB UTME is required.

5. Are nursing schools and universities accredited by NMCN?

Yes, only institutions accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) can legally train nurses. Always verify before applying.

6. Can males apply for nursing programs in Nigeria?

Yes, nursing is open to both males and females.

7. How much does it cost to study nursing in Nigeria?

Tuition fees range from ₦150,000 to ₦500,000 per session, depending on the institution.

8. What happens after completing a nursing program?

Graduates must pass the NMCN licensing exam to become certified nurses and obtain their licensing number to practice legally.

Conclusion

Applying for a nursing program in Nigeria is a straightforward process if you follow the right steps. Whether you choose a School of Nursing or a University B.NSc. program, ensure you meet the admission requirements, apply to accredited institutions, and prepare well for entrance exams or JAMB.

By following this guide, you’ll be on your way to starting a fulfilling career in nursing!

For more details, visit the official Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) website.