If you want to study Nursing in Nigeria, one of the most important things to check before buying any admission form is whether the school is approved.

Many students make the mistake of applying to any school that advertises “School of Nursing form is out” without confirming if the institution is recognized. This can be dangerous because attending an unapproved nursing school may affect your training, licensing, professional recognition and future career.

In Nigeria, the body responsible for regulating nursing and midwifery education is the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, also known as NMCN.

Before applying to any School of Nursing, College of Nursing, College of Nursing Sciences, Department of Nursing Science, School of Midwifery or Post-Basic Nursing programme, you should confirm that the institution and programme are approved.

This guide explains the list of approved Schools and Colleges of Nursing in Nigeria, the types of approved nursing programmes, how to verify if a nursing school is accredited, admission requirements, JAMB requirements and mistakes to avoid before applying.

What Is an Approved School of Nursing?

An approved School of Nursing is a nursing training institution that has been recognized by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria to train nursing students.

Approval means the school has met certain standards required for nursing education, including facilities, staff, curriculum, clinical training and admission quota.

A school may be approved for one nursing programme but not another. For example, a College of Nursing may be approved for Basic Nursing but not for a particular Post-Basic Nursing specialty.

This is why you should not only check the school name. You should also check the specific programme you want to apply for.

Why You Must Choose an Approved Nursing School

Choosing an approved nursing school is very important because Nursing is a professional health course. You are not just going to school to collect a certificate; you are training for a regulated healthcare profession.

You should choose an approved school because:

• Your certificate is more likely to be recognized.
• You can sit for the required professional nursing examinations.
• Your training follows approved nursing standards.
• You avoid wasting money on unrecognized programmes.
• It protects your future career.
• It reduces the risk of admission fraud.
• It helps you know the school’s approved admission quota.
• It gives you confidence that the programme is regulated.

Before paying any application fee, always confirm the approval status.

Official Source for Approved Nursing Schools in Nigeria

The official source for approved nursing schools in Nigeria is the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.

NMCN provides information on approved nursing training institutions, programme requirements and school guidelines. Its approved-schools page states that the listed institutions are approved by the Council as at July 2025.

Because accreditation status can change, candidates should always check the latest NMCN update or confirm directly from the school before applying.

Types of Approved Nursing Training Institutions in Nigeria

Nursing education in Nigeria is not only one type. There are different categories of nursing training institutions and programmes.

According to NMCN’s approved-schools information, approved nursing training institutions include different categories such as Schools of Nursing, Schools of Midwifery, Post-Basic Nursing Specialties, Departments of Nursing Sciences, Community Midwifery and Community Nursing programmes.

1. Schools of Nursing

Schools of Nursing train students in Basic Nursing programmes.

These schools may be attached to hospitals, state ministries of health, teaching hospitals or colleges of nursing sciences.

Some Basic Nursing programmes may conduct entrance examinations, while some nursing institutions now run ND/HND Nursing routes that may require JAMB.

2. Colleges of Nursing Sciences

Many Nigerian states and health institutions now use the name College of Nursing Sciences.

A College of Nursing Sciences may offer different programmes such as:

• Basic Nursing
• Basic Midwifery
• ND Nursing
• HND Nursing
• Community Nursing
• Community Midwifery
• Post-Basic Nursing programmes

Before applying, check the exact programme because the admission requirements may differ.

3. Schools of Midwifery

Schools of Midwifery train students in midwifery programmes.

Some schools offer Basic Midwifery, while others offer Post-Basic Midwifery for candidates who already have nursing qualifications.

4. Departments or Faculties of Nursing Sciences

These are usually university-based nursing programmes.

Candidates who want to study Nursing Science in a university normally apply through JAMB and must meet the university’s admission requirements.

5. Post-Basic Nursing Schools

Post-Basic Nursing programmes are usually for registered nurses who want to specialize.

Examples may include:

• Perioperative Nursing
• Ophthalmic Nursing
• Psychiatric Nursing
• Accident and Emergency Nursing
• Anaesthetic Nursing
• Paediatric Nursing
• Critical Care Nursing

These programmes are not usually for fresh secondary school leavers.

6. Community Nursing and Community Midwifery Programmes

Community Nursing and Community Midwifery programmes are designed to train healthcare workers for community-level service.

The requirements may differ from Basic Nursing or University Nursing Science, so applicants must check the official admission notice.

Summary of Approved Nursing Training Categories in Nigeria

NMCN’s approved-schools summary lists categories such as School of Nursing, Schools of Midwifery, Post-Basic Nursing Specialties, Departments of Nursing Sciences, Community Midwifery Programme and Community Nursing Programme. Its summary page previously displayed totals such as 117 Schools of Nursing, 111 Schools of Midwifery, 72 Schools of Post-Basic Nursing Specialties, 43 Departments of Nursing Sciences, 27 Community Midwifery Programmes and 30 Community Nursing Programmes. Candidates should still confirm with the latest downloadable NMCN list because totals and accreditation status can change.

List of Approved Schools and Colleges of Nursing in Nigeria by State

Below are examples of approved nursing training institutions and nursing education routes across Nigeria. Because the full NMCN list is long and may be updated, students should use this article as a guide and confirm the latest approval status from NMCN or the school’s official admission office before applying.

Abia State

Examples of nursing institutions and programmes in Abia include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Amachara
• College of Nursing Sciences, Umuahia
• College of Nursing Sciences, ABSUTH, Aba
• Faculty of Nursing Sciences, Abia State University, Uturu

Candidates should confirm the current programme approval, admission quota and form availability before applying.

Adamawa State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Yola
• School of Nursing, Yola
• School of Midwifery, Yola
• Federal Medical Centre, Yola Post-Basic Nursing programmes

Always verify the exact programme before applying.

Akwa Ibom State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Uyo
• School of Nursing, Anua
• School of Nursing, Eket
• School of Midwifery, Anua

Applicants should confirm whether the programme is Basic Nursing, Basic Midwifery, ND/HND Nursing or another approved route.

Anambra State

Examples include:

• School of Nursing, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi
• School of Nursing, Iyienu
• School of Nursing, Amichi
• Department of Nursing Science, Nnamdi Azikiwe University
• Madonna University Nursing Science programme

Check current approval status and admission requirements before applying.

Bauchi State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Bauchi
• School of Nursing, Bauchi
• School of Midwifery, Bauchi
• Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital nursing-related programmes

Applicants should verify current accreditation and admission quota.

Bayelsa State

Examples include:

• Bayelsa State College of Nursing Sciences
• School of Nursing, Tombia
• Nursing-related programmes connected to state health institutions

Always confirm the current approval status before paying for any form.

Benue State

Examples include:

• School of Nursing, Makurdi
• School of Midwifery, Makurdi
• College of Health Sciences and nursing-related training institutions
• Benue State University Nursing Science programme where applicable

Check the latest NMCN list and school portal.

Borno State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Maiduguri
• School of Nursing, Maiduguri
• School of Midwifery, Maiduguri
• University of Maiduguri Nursing Science programme where applicable

Applicants should confirm programme status and security-related admission updates.

Cross River State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Calabar
• School of Nursing, Calabar
• School of Midwifery, Calabar
• Department of Nursing Science, University of Calabar

Always verify the specific programme before applying.

Delta State

Examples include:

• Delta State College of Nursing Sciences
• School of Nursing, Agbor
• School of Nursing, Warri
• School of Nursing, Eku
• School of Midwifery programmes in the state
• Delta State University Nursing Science programme where applicable

Confirm latest admission route and approval status.

Ebonyi State

Examples include:

• Ebonyi State College of Nursing Sciences
• School of Nursing, Uburu
• School of Midwifery programmes
• Ebonyi State University Nursing Science programme where applicable

Applicants should check the official school portal and NMCN list.

Edo State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Benin
• School of Nursing, University of Benin Teaching Hospital
• Department or Faculty of Nursing Sciences, University of Benin
• Benson Idahosa University Nursing programme
• Wellspring University Nursing programme where approved

Candidates should confirm current accreditation and admission quota.

Ekiti State

Examples include:

• Ekiti State College of Nursing Sciences
• School of Nursing, Ado-Ekiti
• Afe Babalola University Nursing Science programme
• Ekiti State University Nursing-related programmes where approved

Always check latest school and NMCN information.

Enugu State

Examples include:

• School of Nursing, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu
• School of Nursing, Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Parklane
• Department of Nursing Sciences, University of Nigeria
• Enugu State College of Nursing Sciences

Confirm programme approval and admission requirements.

FCT Abuja

Examples include:

• School of Nursing, Gwagwalada
• School of Midwifery, Gwagwalada
• National Hospital Abuja nursing-related programmes
• University of Abuja Nursing Science programme where approved

Applicants should confirm the current form, quota and programme type.

Gombe State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Gombe
• School of Nursing, Gombe
• School of Midwifery, Gombe
• Gombe State University Nursing Science programme where approved

Check the official admission notice before applying.

Imo State

Examples include:

• Imo State College of Nursing Sciences
• School of Nursing, Owerri
• School of Nursing, Amaigbo
• Department of Nursing Science, Imo State University where approved

Always confirm approval status and admission quota.

Jigawa State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Birnin Kudu
• School of Nursing, Birnin Kudu
• School of Midwifery, Birnin Kudu

Applicants should check the latest state admission notice.

Kaduna State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Kaduna
• School of Nursing, Kaduna
• School of Midwifery, Kaduna
• Ahmadu Bello University Nursing Science programme
• Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital nursing-related programmes

Confirm programme type and current admission requirements.

Kano State

Examples include:

• Kano State College of Nursing Sciences
• School of Nursing, Kano
• School of Midwifery, Kano
• Bayero University Nursing Science programme where approved

Applicants should verify current accreditation and admission quota.

Katsina State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Katsina
• School of Nursing, Katsina
• School of Midwifery, Katsina

Check the official state college portal or admission office.

Kebbi State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Birnin Kebbi
• School of Nursing, Birnin Kebbi
• School of Midwifery programmes

Confirm current approval and admission requirements.

Kogi State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Obangede
• ECWA School of Nursing, Egbe
• ECWA School of Basic Midwifery, Egbe
• College of Nursing, Ochadamu
• Nursing-related private and mission institutions where approved

Applicants should verify current NMCN approval status.

Kwara State

Examples include:

• Kwara State College of Nursing Sciences, Ilorin
• School of Nursing, Oke-Ode
• University of Ilorin Nursing Science programme where approved
• Private nursing institutions where approved

Check official sources before applying.

Lagos State

Examples include:

• Lagos State College of Nursing
• School of Nursing, Lagos University Teaching Hospital
• School of Nursing, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital
• Department of Nursing Science, University of Lagos where applicable
• Babcock University Nursing Science programme in nearby Ogun State for private option seekers

Lagos nursing programmes are often competitive, so check requirements early.

Nasarawa State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Lafia
• School of Nursing, Lafia
• School of Midwifery programmes in the state

Confirm current admission details before applying.

Niger State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Minna
• School of Nursing, Bida
• School of Midwifery, Minna
• Nursing programmes connected to state health institutions

Check the latest admission notice.

Ogun State

Examples include:

• Ogun State College of Nursing Sciences
• School of Nursing, Abeokuta
• Babcock University Nursing Science programme
• Nursing-related approved private institutions where applicable

Applicants should confirm approval and admission route.

Ondo State

Examples include:

• Ondo State College of Nursing Sciences
• School of Nursing, Akure
• School of Nursing, Ondo
• Achievers University Nursing Science programme where approved

Confirm current accreditation status.

Osun State

Examples include:

• Osun State College of Nursing Sciences
• School of Nursing, Osogbo
• School of Nursing, Ilesa
• Bowen University Nursing Science programme where approved

Check current admission details and programme approval.

Oyo State

Examples include:

• Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences
• School of Nursing, Eleyele, Ibadan
• University College Hospital, Ibadan nursing-related programmes
• University of Ibadan Nursing Science programme where approved
• Lead City University Nursing Science programme where approved

Oyo has many nursing options, but applicants should verify each programme.

Plateau State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Vom
• School of Nursing, Jos
• School of Midwifery, Jos
• University of Jos Nursing Science programme where approved

Confirm current NMCN approval status and admission requirements.

Rivers State

Examples include:

• Rivers State College of Nursing Sciences
• School of Nursing, Port Harcourt
• Department of Nursing Science, University of Port Harcourt where approved
• PAMO University of Medical Sciences Nursing programme where approved

Check school portal and NMCN list before applying.

Sokoto State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Sokoto
• School of Nursing, Sokoto
• School of Midwifery programmes
• Usmanu Danfodiyo University Nursing Science programme where approved

Verify current programme status.

Taraba State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Jalingo
• School of Nursing, Jalingo
• School of Midwifery, Jalingo

Confirm admission form and approval status.

Yobe State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Damaturu
• School of Nursing, Damaturu
• School of Midwifery programmes

Check the latest admission updates.

Zamfara State

Examples include:

• College of Nursing Sciences, Gusau
• School of Nursing, Gusau
• School of Midwifery programmes in the state

Always verify current approval status.

Approved University Departments and Faculties of Nursing Sciences in Nigeria

Apart from Schools and Colleges of Nursing, some universities have approved Nursing Science departments or faculties.

Examples of universities that may offer Nursing Science include:

• University of Nigeria
• University of Benin
• University of Calabar
• University of Ilorin
• University of Lagos
• University of Ibadan
• Ahmadu Bello University
• Bayero University
• University of Port Harcourt
• Nnamdi Azikiwe University
• Abia State University
• Ebonyi State University
• Babcock University
• Bowen University
• Afe Babalola University
• Madonna University
• Benson Idahosa University
• PAMO University of Medical Sciences

Candidates should confirm that the Nursing Science programme is currently approved and available for the admission year they are applying for.

Admission Requirements for Approved Schools of Nursing

The general O’level requirement for Nursing in Nigeria usually includes five credit passes in:

• English Language
• Mathematics
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics

These credits are usually required in WAEC, NECO, NABTEB or an approved equivalent examination.

Many nursing programmes require these credits at not more than two sittings.

Does School of Nursing Require JAMB?

It depends on the programme.

For University Nursing Science, JAMB is required.

For ND/HND Nursing in Colleges of Nursing, JAMB is usually required.

For some Basic Nursing or Basic Midwifery programmes, the school may conduct an entrance examination without JAMB, depending on the institution.

Always check the school’s official admission advert.

JAMB Subject Combination for Nursing

The common JAMB subject combination for Nursing is:

• English Language
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics

English Language is compulsory.

Before registering, confirm from the JAMB brochure and your preferred school’s admission requirements.

How to Know If a Nursing School Is Approved

Before applying, follow these steps:

1. Check the NMCN Approved Schools List

The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria provides the official approved-schools list. Use it as your first source.

2. Confirm the Programme Name

Do not check only the school name. Confirm whether the specific programme is approved.

For example:

• Basic Nursing
• Basic Midwifery
• ND Nursing
• HND Nursing
• Post-Basic Nursing
• Nursing Science

3. Check the Admission Quota

An approved school may have an approved admission quota. This shows the number of students the school is allowed to admit for a programme.

4. Confirm From the School Portal

Visit the official school website or admission portal.

Avoid fake links shared on social media.

5. Contact the Admission Office

If you are still unsure, contact the school directly through official phone numbers or email addresses.

6. Avoid Unofficial Agents

Do not depend on agents who claim they can guarantee admission.

Signs a Nursing School May Not Be Safe

Be careful if you notice any of these:

• No official website
• No clear school address
• Payment into personal accounts
• No proof of approval
• Unrealistic admission promises
• No entrance exam or screening process
• No mention of NMCN approval
• Pressure to pay quickly
• Fake social media pages
• No proper admission office

If something looks suspicious, verify before paying.

Also Read: Does School of Nursing Require JAMB in Nigeria? Full Guide for 2026/2027 Admission

Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Nursing School

1. Applying Without Checking Approval

This is one of the biggest mistakes. Always check approval status first.

2. Trusting Old Lists Online

Some lists online are outdated. Use the latest available official source.

3. Ignoring Programme Type

A school may be approved for one programme but not another.

4. Not Checking JAMB Requirement

Some nursing programmes require JAMB, especially ND/HND Nursing and university Nursing Science.

5. Applying With Incomplete O’level Result

Nursing usually requires English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

6. Paying Fake Agents

Do not pay anyone promising direct nursing admission.

7. Not Checking Admission Quota

If a school has a small quota, admission may be more competitive.

8. Ignoring School Fees

Always check school fees and other charges before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Official List of Approved Schools of Nursing in Nigeria?

The official list is provided by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria. Candidates should check the latest NMCN approved-schools list before applying.

Are All Schools of Nursing in Nigeria Approved?

No. Not every school advertising nursing admission is approved. Always verify before applying.

How Do I Know If a School of Nursing Is Approved?

Check the NMCN approved-schools list, confirm the programme name, check the school portal and contact the school’s admission office.

Does College of Nursing Require JAMB?

Many Colleges of Nursing require JAMB for ND/HND Nursing programmes. Some Basic Nursing programmes may use entrance examination depending on the school.

What Subjects Are Needed for School of Nursing?

The major O’level subjects are English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Can I Use Two Sittings for School of Nursing?

Many nursing institutions accept two sittings, but candidates should confirm from the school.

Can I Study Nursing Without JAMB?

It depends on the programme. University Nursing Science and ND/HND Nursing usually require JAMB, while some Basic Nursing programmes may use entrance examination.

Is Nursing Science the Same as School of Nursing?

Not exactly. Nursing Science is usually a university degree programme, while School of Nursing may refer to a professional nursing training institution or Basic Nursing route.

Can I Apply to Any Nursing School Online?

You should apply only through official school portals. Avoid random links and fake agents.

Why Is NMCN Approval Important?

NMCN approval is important because Nursing is a regulated profession. Approval helps confirm that the training institution meets required nursing education standards.

Conclusion

Before applying for any School of Nursing or College of Nursing in Nigeria, always confirm that the institution and programme are approved.

Do not choose a school only because the form is out or because someone recommended it. Check the latest NMCN approved-schools list, confirm the programme type, check JAMB requirements, verify O’level requirements and use only official school portals.

Nursing is a professional career, and your training foundation matters. Choosing an approved school protects your money, your time and your future career.