EDUCATION
School of Nursing Admission Requirements in Nigeria
School of Nursing Admission Requirements in Nigeria
Nursing remains a respected and rewarding profession in Nigeria, offering individuals the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the healthcare system. Gaining admission into a school of nursing is the first step toward becoming a qualified nurse. However, before applying, it is essential to be aware of the requirements and steps involved in the admission process. This article outlines the necessary qualifications, documents, and other expectations for prospective nursing students in Nigeria.
Nursing Schools in Nigeria
Nursing schools in Nigeria offer professional training for individuals interested in becoming licensed nurses. These schools are regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), which ensures that their curriculum aligns with global best practices. Upon completing your training, you will be eligible to work as a nurse in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare institutions.
The training programs typically range between three to four years, depending on the type of nursing certification being pursued. Common programs include:
- Basic Nursing – Suitable for secondary school graduates.
- Post-Basic Nursing – For those who already have a certificate in general nursing and wish to specialize in fields like midwifery, perioperative nursing, or public health.
- Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.N.Sc.) – A degree program offered by universities.
Let’s now discuss the admission requirements you need to meet for different nursing programs.
1. Basic Nursing Program Requirements
The basic nursing program is the most common pathway for aspiring nurses. Here are the general qualifications needed:
a. Academic Qualifications
Applicants must have at least five credits in their Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) or its equivalent (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB). The required subjects include:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
It’s important to note that these credits must be obtained in not more than two sittings.
b. Age Requirement
Most schools of nursing require applicants to be at least 16 or 17 years old at the time of admission.
c. Entrance Examination
Prospective students must pass an entrance examination conducted by the nursing school they are applying to. This exam typically covers topics in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
d. Interview
Shortlisted candidates from the entrance examination are invited for an oral interview. The interview assesses their communication skills, attitude, and overall readiness for the nursing profession.
e. Health Status
Applicants must be medically fit. Some schools require medical reports or certificates from a recognized hospital as part of the screening process.
2. Post-Basic Nursing Program Requirements
This program is designed for individuals who already hold a certificate in general nursing and wish to advance their careers by specializing in areas like midwifery, anesthetic nursing, or ophthalmic nursing.
a. General Nursing Certificate
To apply, you must possess a valid general nursing certificate from an accredited institution.
b. Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria License
Applicants must have an active license issued by the NMCN.
c. Work Experience
Some schools require applicants to have at least one year of post-qualification work experience as a registered nurse.
d. Additional Requirements
Other requirements may include a recommendation letter from your employer or a sponsoring organization, as well as a medical fitness certificate.
3. Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.N.Sc.) Program Requirements
This program is offered by universities and leads to a degree in nursing. It provides both theoretical and practical training, equipping graduates with advanced skills in patient care and research.
a. Academic Qualifications
To apply for a B.N.Sc. program, you must meet the following academic requirements:
- At least five credits in SSCE, WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB, including English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- An acceptable score in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), with nursing listed as your preferred course.
b. Post-UTME Examination
Applicants are required to sit for the post-UTME screening organized by the university.
c. Direct Entry Admission
For those applying through direct entry, you must possess:
- A Registered Nurse (RN) certificate.
- A valid NMCN license.
- A diploma in nursing or related qualifications (e.g., Registered Midwifery certificate) from an accredited institution.
Documents Needed for Admission
Regardless of the program you are applying for, some documents are universally required during the admission process. These include:
- A photocopy of your birth certificate or age declaration.
- Original and photocopies of your academic certificates (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB).
- Passport photographs (usually between four and eight copies).
- A valid means of identification (e.g., National ID card, Voter’s card, or International Passport).
- Evidence of payment of the application form or entrance examination fee.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Research Your Preferred School: Each nursing school may have unique admission criteria, so visit their official website or contact their admissions office to confirm the requirements.
- Prepare for the Entrance Examination: Study thoroughly and focus on the core science subjects. Consider enrolling in preparatory classes or using past questions for practice.
- Submit Accurate Information: Ensure that all details in your application form are accurate and match your documents.
- Apply Early: Nursing schools often operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Submit your application before the deadline to improve your chances.
- Be Ready for Interviews: Practice answering questions about your motivation for becoming a nurse and other related topics.
Popular Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
Some well-known schools of nursing in Nigeria include:
- Lagos State School of Nursing, Igando
- University College Hospital (UCH) School of Nursing, Ibadan
- Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital School of Nursing, Ile-Ife
- Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital School of Nursing, Zaria
- School of Nursing, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu
Each of these schools has its unique strengths and admission procedures, so be sure to research thoroughly before applying.
ALSO READ: Lists of All the Colleges and School of Health Technology in Nigeria and Their School Fees
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