JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Nursing for the 2026/2027 academic session is out. Nursing is one of Nigeria’s most competitive and highly sought-after university programmes in the health sciences. Each year, thousands of aspirants sit for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) UTME exam, hoping to secure admission into accredited Nigerian universities to study Nursing Science. As with other competitive courses like Medicine, Pharmacy, and Law, Nursing has specific JAMB cut-off marks that candidates must meet before they are eligible for admission consideration.

In this comprehensive article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing for the 2026/2027 academic session — including its meaning, typical score ranges across institutions, Federal and state Universities Offering Nursing, how it affects admission, and practical tips to maximise your chances.

What Is the JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Nursing?

The JAMB cut-off mark is the minimum score that a candidate must achieve in the UTME to qualify for further consideration by universities offering a particular course — in this case, Nursing Science. Meeting this score makes you eligible for Post-UTME screening or further institutional assessments, but does not automatically guarantee admission.

For the 2026/2027 academic session, the general JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing falls between 180 and 200, with 200 or above strongly recommended for competitive chances. Higher departmental thresholds may apply depending on the university’s admission standards and competition level.

JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Medicine and Surgery

Why Nursing Has Competitive Cut-Off Marks

Several reasons explain why Nursing often demands a high cut-off mark compared to many other courses in Nigerian universities:

1. High Demand and Limited Spaces

Nursing remains a popular career choice due to its direct role in healthcare delivery, strong career prospects, and diverse employment pathways. As a result, many students apply for this programme each year, but universities have limited intake capacities. Universities, therefore, raise their admission thresholds to manage demand.

2. Critical Health Science Foundation

Nursing is rooted in biological and health sciences, requiring a deep understanding of Biology, Chemistry, and related scientific concepts. Universities use cut-off marks to filter candidates who demonstrate strong academic ability in these foundational areas.

3. Screening Beyond JAMB

Even after meeting the JAMB cut-off mark, many institutions conduct Post-UTME screening, interviews, or aggregate scoring, which emphasises holistic evaluation rather than relying on UTME scores alone. A strong score enhances your position in the ranking.

JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Nursing – Score Ranges Explained

The cut-off marks for Nursing vary significantly across institutions. Some schools set a modest threshold, while highly competitive schools may demand much higher scores.

General UTME Eligibility Benchmark

• Minimum JAMB Eligibility (baseline): 150 – 180 (registered as eligible to apply for screening).

• Strong Recommendation: 200+ to remain competitive.

Candidates are advised to aim above 200 to increase their chances of success, especially for federal universities and highly competitive programmes.

Typical JAMB Cut-Off Marks for Nursing by University 

Different types of universities use varying cut-off marks based on competitiveness, institutional standards, and applicant pool performance.

Federal Universities Offering Nursing and Their Cut-Off Mark

Federal universities often have higher cut-off marks due to competition and prestige:

Federal universities often combine UTME and Post-UTME performance to create an aggregate score for final ranking. Hitting the cut-off is only the first step.

State and Private Universities Offering Nursing and Their Cut-Off Mark

State and private institutions may have more accessible thresholds, though competition still exists:

State and private universities may consider your Post-UTME score, O’Level results, and other screening outcomes, alongside your JAMB score.

Why Some Universities Accept Lower Scores

Some institutions — especially new or less competitive ones — accept candidates with lower JAMB marks (e.g., 150–180). This does not mean Nursing is “easy” to get into, but rather reflects different admission policies, competition levels, and enrollment capacities across schools.

Always verify the latest cut-off marks directly with the university or through official JAMB announcements, because thresholds can change annually.

How Cut-Off Marks Affect Nursing Admission

Meeting the official cut-off mark gives you eligibility to proceed to further admission processes. However, the final offer usually depends on:

1. Post-UTME Screening

Many universities conduct a Post-UTME or screening test, which evaluates higher-order thinking and aptitude. Your UTME and Post-UTME scores may be combined for admission ranking.

2. O-Level Results

Most institutions require at least five (5) credit passes in your O’Level results, including:

• English Language

• Mathematics

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Physics (in some schools)

3. Aggregate Scoring

Some universities compute an aggregate score combining UTME, Post-UTME, and O’Level performances. Higher aggregates translate to stronger chances of admission.

Falling just above the cut-off mark may make you eligible, but higher scores significantly increase your likelihood of getting offers — especially in federal universities.

Practical Tips to Boost Admission Chances

To maximise your chances of securing admission into Nursing, consider these strategies:

Aim Higher Than the Minimum

Don’t just aim for 180–200 — aim for 200+ or higher. Many competitive schools prefer candidates with high scores.

Prepare Seriously for Post-UTME

Excellent Post-UTME results can offset a lower UTME score in aggregate scoring systems.

Strengthen Your O-Level Results

Good O-Level results — especially in the core science subjects — give you a competitive edge during screening.

Check School-Specific Requirements

Different universities have varied screening processes and cut-off marks. Verify official school portals or JAMB releases for the latest numbers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the minimum JAMB score for Nursing?

The recommended JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing is typically between 180 and 200, with many competitive institutions requiring 200+.

Can I get Nursing admission with 170 in JAMB?

Yes — especially in state or private universities with lower departmental cut-offs, though competition may be high.

Does meeting the cut-off guarantee admission?

No. Meeting the cut-off mark qualifies you for screening, but you must also perform well in Post-UTME and satisfy O-Level requirements to be offered admission.

What is the Post UTME Cut-Off Mark for Nursing?

The JAMB post-UTME Cut-Off mark for nursing is 200+

Conclusion

The JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing in Nigeria for the 2026/2027 academic session generally ranges from 180 to 200, with 200+ strongly recommended for competitive admission into federal and top state universities.

This score determines your eligibility for Post-UTME screening and forms the first major gateway toward admission into Nursing Science programmes. Balancing a high UTME score with strong O-Level results and excellent Post-UTME performance positions you advantageously in the highly competitive race for Nursing admission.

Remember: Always verify the current cut-off mark directly from your chosen institution or the official JAMB website to confirm from the Brochure, as cut-offs can change each academic session

If you have questions to ask, please drop them in the comment section. Our team will respond immediately.