AJOEER

JAMB Cut off Mark for Nursing 2026/2027

Every year, thousands of students across Nigeria sit for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) UTME with hopes of gaining admission into various tertiary institutions. Among the most sought-after courses is Nursing Science, a program that opens doors to a rewarding healthcare career. If you’re an aspiring nurse, one of the most common questions is: “What is the JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing 2026?” This blog post breaks it down clearly and provides tips to improve your chances of admission.

Before we dive into the specific numbers, it’s important to understand what a JAMB cut-off mark is. Simply put, a cut-off mark is the minimum UTME score required to be eligible for admission into a specific course at a Nigerian university or tertiary institution. It is the first step in determining whether you can move forward in the admission process.

It’s important to note that meeting the cut-off mark does not guarantee admission. The cut-off mark only ensures that you are qualified to be considered. Other factors, such as your Post-UTME score, O’Level results, and the competitiveness of the university, play a crucial role in your final admission.

JAMB Cut-off Mark for Nursing in 2026

For the 2026 academic session, most institutions have set the JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing between 180 and 200. Here’s what that means:

  • 180: This is generally considered the minimum score required to be eligible for Nursing programs. Students who score 180 or above can submit their application for consideration.
  • 200 and above: Many competitive universities, especially federal institutions, require applicants to score at least 200 due to the high demand for Nursing programs.

The exact cut-off varies depending on the university, the number of available slots, and the number of applicants.

Why Cut-off Marks Differ Between Institutions

Not all universities have the same cut-off for Nursing. There are several reasons for this:

  • Competition: Nursing is one of the most popular courses in Nigeria. Highly competitive schools raise the cut-off to reduce the number of eligible applicants.
  • Institutional Standards: Some universities maintain higher academic standards for professional courses like Nursing to ensure quality in training.
  • Number of Available Slots: Schools with fewer slots for Nursing may set higher cut-offs to ensure only the top-scoring candidates are considered.
  • Understanding this variation is important because aiming for the higher end of the range (200 and above) increases your chances of gaining admission into a competitive institution.

Additional Admission Requirements

Meeting the JAMB cut-off is just the first step. To gain admission into a Nursing program, you must also meet other academic requirements:

O’Level Requirements: Most universities require five credit passes in WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB. The mandatory subjects usually include:

  • English Language
  • Mathematics
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics

UTME Subject Combination: Your JAMB subjects must align with Nursing requirements. Typically, students need English, Biology, Chemistry, and either Physics or Mathematics.

Post-UTME Performance: After meeting the JAMB cut-off, many universities conduct a Post-UTME screening exam. This score is combined with your UTME score to calculate your final aggregate. A strong Post-UTME performance can significantly boost your admission chances.

Tips to Improve Your Chances

Here are some practical strategies to increase your chances of getting admitted into a Nursing program:

  • Aim Above the Minimum Cut-off: Even if the minimum is 180, aiming for 200 or higher makes you more competitive, especially for top universities.
  • Prepare for Post-UTME: Your Post-UTME score is critical. Practice past questions and strengthen your knowledge in science subjects.
  • Excel in Science Subjects: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics form the foundation of Nursing education. Strong grades in these subjects make your application more attractive.
  • Consider Multiple Institutions: Apply to a mix of federal, state, and private universities to maximize your chances. Some schools may have lower cut-offs but still provide quality education.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing 2026 is typically between 180 and 200, depending on the institution. While 180 makes you eligible to apply, scoring 200 or more significantly improves your chances, particularly for competitive universities. Remember, meeting the cut-off is just one step; your Post-UTME score, O’Level results, and overall preparation also determine your success.

Nursing is a challenging but fulfilling career path. Proper preparation, dedication, and aiming for high scores in both JAMB and Post-UTME can help you secure a place in your preferred institution. Start preparing early, focus on the right subjects, and approach your exams strategically — your dream of becoming a nurse is well within reach.