Help & FAQs — Nursing admissions and programmes
Find answers about admission routes, program types, finances and practical guidance for nursing applicants in Nigeria.
Common requirements include five credits at O'Level (including English and science subjects), an entrance exam, interview and JAMB UTME for degree programmes. Check specific school pages for exact subject combinations and allowances for two sittings.
Some institutions offer diploma routes, but at St. Anna we operate a 3-Year RN program and a 5-Year BNSc progression. Our admissions route uses an entrance examination and interview rather than Post-UTME/JAMB-only selection.
Options include applying to institutions with different selection criteria, taking preparatory courses, or considering accredited diploma or degree pathways. St. Anna offers a 3-Year RN program and a 5-Year BNSc progression with entrance exam and interview.
The main pathways are the 3-Year RN program (professional nursing training) and the 5-Year BNSc progression (degree). RN focuses on practical and clinical skills, while BNSc includes broader theory, research, and advanced practice opportunities.
Costs vary widely: public institutions often charge lower tuition than private colleges. Expect to budget for tuition, accommodation, clinical transport, uniforms, textbooks and incidental costs. Check the fees page for current schedules.
Some colleges and state governments offer merit or need-based bursaries. External NGOs and foundations sometimes provide scholarships. Contact admissions for current bursary application windows and eligibility.
Good placements include partnerships with teaching hospitals, varied rotations across specialties, and adequate student-to-mentor ratios. Ask for sample rotation schedules and hospitals used for clinical training.
Confirm state bursary windows, compare campus placement hospitals in Rivers State, and evaluate travel and accommodation costs when choosing institutions outside your local area.