In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best nursing schools without JAMB in 2025. These schools of nursing are fully accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), ensuring that graduates can sit for the professional licensing exams and work as qualified nurses both locally and internationally.
Nursing remains one of the most respected and rewarding careers in Nigeria. Every year, thousands of students aspire to join the profession because of its job security, relevance, and the vital role nurses play in healthcare delivery. However, one of the biggest challenges many prospective students face is passing the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exam.
The good news is that not all school of nursing in Nigeria require JAMB. Instead, some institutions conduct their own entrance exams and interviews, making them the perfect option for candidates who prefer to bypass JAMB.
Why Choose Nursing Schools Without JAMB
Studying at a nursing school without JAMB comes with several benefits:
- It reduces the stress and uncertainty that comes with writing the UTME.
- Admission is based purely on merit through the school’s entrance exams and oral interviews.
- It provides opportunities for passionate candidates who may have struggled with JAMB but still want to pursue a professional nursing career.
Best Nursing Schools in Nigeria That Don’t Require JAMB in 2025
You are about to dive into a comprehensive listing of top nursing schools without JAMB in Nigeria. Each of these institutions listed below is accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) and offers quality training for aspiring nurses and does not require JAMB for admission.
Holy Rosary Emekuku College of Nursing, Owerri
Holy Rosary Emekuku College of Nursing, located in Owerri, Imo State, is one of the most reputable nursing schools without JAMB in Nigeria. The institution is managed by the Catholic mission and has a long history of producing competent, disciplined, and compassionate nurses.
Students receive rigorous training in both academic and clinical practice, preparing them for the NMCN licensing exams. The serene environment, coupled with moral and spiritual guidance, makes it a top choice for many aspiring nurses.
Admission is through the school’s own entrance examination and oral interview, not JAMB.
College of Nursing, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan
The College of Nursing at UCH Ibadan is one of the oldest and most prestigious nursing institutions in Nigeria. Established in 1952, it has trained generations of nurses who are highly respected both nationally and internationally.
The school runs a 3-year Basic Nursing program alongside several Post-Basic courses. One of its strengths is the extensive clinical exposure students get at University College Hospital, which is one of the largest and most advanced teaching hospitals in West Africa.
Admission is strictly by the school’s own exam and interview, without the need for JAMB.
Mercy College of Nursing, Iwo, Osun State
Mercy College of Nursing, Iwo, is another accredited cheap college of nursing that admits students without JAMB. The school is run with a strong focus on discipline, professional ethics, and holistic training. Students are groomed with the right knowledge and clinical practice to excel in the nursing profession.
The institution is particularly popular among candidates seeking a faith-based environment combined with excellent academic and clinical standards. Admission is based on the college’s entrance exam and oral interview.
Millennium College of Nursing Sciences (MCONS), Awka
Millennium College of Nursing Sciences, located in Awka, Anambra State, is one of the newer but rapidly growing institutions offering quality nursing education in Nigeria. It is well-structured, with modern facilities, qualified lecturers, and access to clinical training opportunities within partner hospitals.
MCONS focuses on producing globally competitive nurses who combine technical expertise with compassionate care. Admission is carried out through the school’s internal entrance exam and interview, without JAMB.
Admission Requirements for Nursing Schools Without JAMB
Although JAMB is not required, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Five O’level credits in English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics (in not more than two sittings).
- Minimum age of 16 years.
- Successful performance in the school’s entrance exam and oral interview.
You have just explored top nursing schools without JAMB in Nigeria. If you’re passionate about nursing but want to avoid the stress of JAMB, the above institutions provide the perfect pathway. They are accredited, reputable, and committed to producing highly skilled nurses who are in demand both in Nigeria and abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I gain admission into school of nursing without JAMB?
- Yes. The schools listed above admit students through their own entrance exams, not JAMB.
How many years does it take to complete nursing without JAMB?
- Most nursing schools run a 3-year Basic Nursing diploma program.
Are these schools accredited?
- Yes. All schools listed above are accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
What qualification do I get after completing school of nursing?
- Graduates earn the Registered Nurse (RN) qualification and can later proceed to Midwifery (RM), Post-Basic Nursing, or a BNSc. degree.
Can I still study BNSc. without JAMB?
- No. University degree programs in Nursing (BNSc.) still require JAMB.