How To Gain School Of Nursing Admission In 2025
When will nursing admission start in 2025? Do you want to become a nurse? how to get admission in a government nursing college?
That’s such a great dream to pursue. Nurses are wonderful people who take care of others. They help sick people feel better, comfort families, and assist doctors in saving lives.
Now, let me tell you something. Becoming a nurse in Nigeria is not just a dream, it’s something you can achieve if you work hard and follow the right steps. I’m here to guide you through everything you need to know.
If you want to become a nurse in Nigeria, you need to go to a place called a School of Nursing. This is where you’ll learn all the skills and knowledge you need to take care of people. But how do you get into a School of Nursing? Don’t worry, I’m here to explain everything you need to know.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to do, step by step. Let’s get started.
Schools Of Nursing In Nigeria
Let’s start with the basics. A nurse is someone who takes care of people when they’re sick, hurt, or need extra care. Nursing schools in Nigeria are special places where people learn to become nurses. Nurses are people who help take care of sick people, give them medicine, and make them feel better.
These schools teach students in different ways, depending on what they want to do:
Basic Nursing: This is the first step for people who want to become nurses. It teaches all the important things needed to start a nursing career.
Post-Basic Nursing: This is for nurses who already have some training but want to learn more or specialize in a specific area of nursing.
Extra Programs: These are classes for nurses who want to keep learning and stay updated about new ways to take care of patients.
Being a nurse is not just about giving medicine. It’s about being kind, caring, and making people feel loved even when they’re in pain. If this sounds like something you’d love to do, then nursing might be the perfect career for you.
In Nigeria, the group that makes the policies for nursing schools is called the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). They make sure all nursing schools teach the right things and follow strict standards.
To become a nurse in Nigeria, you must:
1. Complete a Basic Nursing Program.
2. Pass a big exam called the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria Exam (NMCE).
Some of the popular universities in Nigeria that do nursing are:
The University of Ibadan
The University of Nigeria Nsukka
The Lagos State University
The Obafemi Awolowo University
Each school is different. Some have better equipment, and resources than others. That’s why it’s important to research and compare schools before choosing the one that’s best for your goals. Always pick a school that will give you the best education and help you achieve your dreams of becoming a nurse.
How can I get admission to study nursing?
Step 1: Start With Your Results
Before you can even think about becoming a nurse, you need to finish secondary school and get your results. Why? Because the things you learn in school are the foundation for everything you’ll do as a nurse.
In secondary school, you’ll study subjects like:
- English
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
These subjects are important because they prepare you for nursing school. Biology will help you understand how the human body works. Chemistry will teach you about medicines and how they react in the body. English will help you communicate with patients and doctors.
When you take your WAEC or NECO exams, make sure you aim for at least five credits, including the subjects I just mentioned. If you don’t pass all of them the first time, don’t feel bad. You can retake the exams until you get it right.
Step 2: Pick The Right School Of Nursing
Now that you have your exam results, it’s time to choose a School of Nursing. There are many schools in Nigeria, so how do you pick the right one? You’ll need to think about:
Location: Is the school close to your home? If it’s far, will you be okay living in a hostel?
Cost: Nursing school fees vary. Some schools are affordable, while others are more expensive. Make sure you pick one that fits your budget.
Reputation: Ask around or do some research. Find out if the school is known for producing good nurses.
Some popular Schools of Nursing in Nigeria include:
Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH)
University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan
School of Nursing, Abuja
Step 3: Get The Application Form
Once you’ve chosen a school, the next step is to get the application form.
You can usually buy the form from the school’s website or their office. The form costs between ₦5,000 and ₦15,000, depending on the school.
When you get the form, fill it out carefully. Write your name, age, and all the other details they ask for. If they ask for your WAEC or NECO results, make sure to attach them.
Step 4: Study For The Entrance Exam
After submitting your form, the school will invite you to write an entrance exam. This exam is like a test to see if you’re ready for nursing school.
The exam will cover subjects like:
- English
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Biology
Here’s how you can prepare:
Go through your secondary school textbooks and revise everything you’ve learned. Practice past questions from previous entrance exams. These are usually available in bookshops. Join a study group or find a tutor if you need extra help.
Think of it as preparing for a race. The better you train, the better your chances of winning.
Step 5: The Interview
If you pass the entrance exam, congratulations! But there’s one more step before you’re fully accepted: the interview.
The interview is where the school’s staff will talk to you to see if you’re truly ready to become a nurse. They might ask questions like:
- Why do you want to be a nurse?
- What do you know about taking care of people?
- How will you handle difficult situations?
Here are some tips to do well in the interview:
- Dress neatly and look professional. First impressions matter!
- Be polite and confident. Speak clearly when answering questions.
- Be honest. If you don’t know an answer, it’s okay to admit it.
Step 6: Start Your Nursing Journey
Once you pass the interview and pay your fees, you’ll officially become a nursing student. Your training will last for about three years. During this time, you’ll:
Attend classes to learn about the human body, medicines, and nursing ethics.
Spend time in hospitals to practice what you’ve learned. This is called “practical training.”
By the end of your program, you’ll take a final exam. If you pass, you’ll get a certificate that proves you’re now a nurse.
O’Level Requirements for Nursing Schools in Nigeria
To gain admission into a nursing school in Nigeria, candidates must meet certain O’Level (Ordinary Level) requirements. Generally, students need to have at least five credits in key subjects, which include:
- English language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Physics
- Chemistry
These credits are essential because they cover the foundational knowledge required for nursing studies. Some schools may also specify a minimum grade or score for each subject, particularly in science-related courses.
It’s important to note that the exact O’Level requirements may differ depending on the nursing school or program. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to contact the specific school you’re interested in to confirm their criteria.
Apart from the O’Level qualifications, nursing schools in Nigeria often have additional requirements. These may include:
- A minimum age limit.
- Proof of English proficiency, especially for international applicants.
- Successfully passing an entrance exam or interview.
By meeting these requirements and preparing well, you can increase your chances of gaining admission into a nursing school in Nigeria.
Types of Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
In Nigeria, there are different types of nursing schools, each designed to meet the needs of students at various stages of their nursing careers. These schools offer training and programs that prepare students to become professional nurses or specialize in specific areas of healthcare. Below are the main types of nursing schools in Nigeria:
1. Basic Schools of Nursing
These schools are for individuals who are just starting their nursing journey. They offer a three-year program that provides foundational training in nursing. After completing this program and passing the necessary exams, students receive a Registered Nurse (RN) certificate, which qualifies them to practice as general nurses.
Who is it for?
Secondary school graduates with the required O’Level credits in subjects like English, Mathematics, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry.
Example of Schools:
School of Nursing, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).
School of Nursing, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.
2. Post-Basic Schools of Nursing
These schools are for nurses who already have a Registered Nurse (RN) certificate and want to specialize in specific areas of nursing. Post-basic programs typically last 12-18 months and offer advanced training in fields such as:
- Midwifery
- Pediatrics
- Anesthesia
- Psychiatric Nursing
Who is it for?
Registered Nurses looking to further their knowledge and skills in specialized areas.
Example of Schools
• School of Post-Basic Midwifery, Lagos.
• School of Post-Basic Psychiatric Nursing, Aro, Abeokuta.
3. University-Based Nursing Schools
These schools are part of universities and offer degree programs in nursing. Students can earn a Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) after completing a 5-year program. University-based nursing schools provide a more in-depth education that includes clinical training, research, and management courses.
Who is it for?
Candidates who meet the university’s requirements, including O’Level credits and passing the UTME exam.
Example of Schools
• University of Ibadan (UI), Ibadan.
• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
4. Private Nursing Schools
Private nursing schools are owned and managed by private organizations or individuals. They offer similar programs as government-owned nursing schools but may have higher tuition fees. These schools are ideal for students who want smaller class sizes and more personalized attention.
Who is it for?
Students who meet the O’Level requirements and can afford the tuition fees.
Example of Schools
• Lagoon School of Nursing, Lagos.
• School of Nursing, Igbinedion University, Edo State.
5. Schools of Midwifery
These schools focus on training students to become midwives, who specialize in caring for pregnant women and delivering babies. The programs typically last 18 months for those with a Registered Nurse (RN) certificate or 3 years for new students.
Who is it for?
Those interested in maternal and child health care.
Example of Schools
• School of Midwifery, Akure.
• School of Midwifery, Makurdi.
6. Specialized Nursing Institutions
These schools provide advanced training in specific areas of nursing, such as public health, emergency care, or nursing education. They are designed for experienced nurses looking to expand their skills or move into teaching and administrative roles.
Who is it for?
Nurses with prior certifications who want to advance their careers.
Example of Schools
• West African College of Nursing (WACN).
Conclusion
Becoming a nurse takes hard work, but it’s worth it. Remember, you’re not just studying to get a job, you’re learning how to save lives and make a difference in the world.
If this is your dream, don’t give up. Follow the steps, work hard, and believe in yourself. One day, you’ll wear that white uniform and make your family proud.