Are you asking yourself, “Which university can I study nursing with 160?” If so, you’re not alone. Many students dream of becoming nurses and want to know if their JAMB score of 160 is good enough to study nursing in a Nigerian university.
The good news is: Yes, it is possible—but there’s a lot you need to know. This guide will explain:
- What nursing is all about
- The normal JAMB cut-off for nursing
- Which schools accept 160
- Other options available to you
- How to improve your chances of getting admitted
What Is Nursing and Why Is It Important?
Nursing is one of the most respected and in-demand careers in the world. Nurses work in hospitals, clinics, and communities to care for people when they are sick or injured. They also help with health education and prevention.
In Nigeria, nursing is offered as a Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) in universities. It is usually a 5-year course that includes classroom study and hospital training. After graduation, students must pass the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) exam to become registered nurses.
What’s the Usual JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Nursing?
Generally, nursing is a competitive course in Nigeria. Most federal and state universities require high JAMB scores.
Here’s what you should know:
- Top universities like University of Lagos (UNILAG), University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), University of Ibadan (UI), and Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) often require 200 to 250 and above.
- State universities sometimes accept scores between 180–200.
- Private universities may accept lower scores depending on their policies.
So, what does this mean for your score of 160?
Can I Study Nursing with 160 in JAMB?
Yes, you can study nursing with 160, but not in all universities. Some schools may consider your application, especially if:
- You chose them as first choice
- Your O’level results are excellent
- You perform well in post-UTME
- The university is less competitive or private
Let’s look at some universities and schools where you might have a good chance.
List of Universities That May Accept 160 for Nursing
Here’s a list of universities and schools you can explore if you have a JAMB score of 160 and want to study nursing:
1. Private Universities Offering Nursing
Many private universities in Nigeria offer nursing programs and are more flexible with admission requirements. Some of them include:
- Babcock University, Ogun State
- Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD)
- Madonna University, Okija
- Lead City University, Ibadan
- Achievers University, Owo
- Bowen University, Iwo
- Igbinedion University, Okada
- Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu
These schools may consider you even with a score of 160. However, they may also require you to pass their internal exams and pay higher tuition fees than public universities.
2. State Universities (Conditional)
Some state universities may consider students with lower scores based on:
- Catchment areas
- Number of applicants
- Post-UTME performance
A few state universities where you might have a shot include:
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- Ebonyi State University (EBSU)
- Imo State University (IMSU)
- Abia State University (ABSU)
These universities usually set their own departmental cut-offs after JAMB and post-UTME exams. If nursing has fewer applicants in a particular year, you might get lucky.
Alternative Options If You’re Not Admitted Directly
If your JAMB score of 160 isn’t enough to get direct admission into nursing, don’t worry. There are alternative pathways you can consider.
1. School of Nursing
You can apply to a School of Nursing instead of a university. These are usually 3-year programs that give you a Registered Nurse (RN) certificate. After that, you can either work or continue to a university for a degree.
Some popular Schools of Nursing in Nigeria include:
- University College Hospital (UCH) Ibadan
- Lagos State School of Nursing
- School of Nursing, Benin
- School of Nursing, Ilorin
Most of these schools do not use JAMB, so your score won’t stop you from applying. You’ll just need to pass their entrance exam.
2. Change Course or Institution
If you’re set on studying in a university this year, consider changing your course to a less competitive one. Courses like:
- Microbiology
- Public Health
- Health Education
- Anatomy
- Physiology
You can also later apply for an inter-departmental transfer into Nursing, though this is rare and based on performance and availability.
3. Pre-Degree or JUPEB Program
Some universities offer pre-degree, JUPEB, or remedial programs. These are one-year courses that prepare you for 200-level admission. If you pass, you may not need JAMB again.
How to Improve Your Chances with a 160 JAMB Score
Here are a few tips to boost your admission chances:
1. Choose the Right School
Focus on private or less competitive state universities. Make sure you select them as your first choice on JAMB portal.
2. Prepare for Post-UTME
Some schools still conduct post-UTME exams. Study hard and get a good score to balance your JAMB result.
3. Have Good O’Level Results
Aim for at least five credits including English, Maths, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics in one or two sittings.
4. Consider Other Health-Related Courses
Public Health, Nursing Assistant programs, and Medical Laboratory Technology are great alternatives with lower cut-offs.
Final Thoughts
If you’re asking “Which university can I study nursing with 160?”, now you know the answer: Yes, it’s possible, especially in private universities or by choosing other smart paths like Schools of Nursing or JUPEB.
