January 14, 2026

Are you planning to apply for nursing in Nigeria and curious about cut-off marks? Our detailed report will help you decide how to approach applying to programmes. This guide will provide everything you need to know about the cut-off marks required for nursing programs in different institutions across Nigeria.

What is a nursing cutoff mark?

A nursing cut-off mark means:

  • The minimum score for possible admission
  • Determined by the schools and then also by the regulatory bodies.
  • Not uniform across all institutions
  • Population-based

General Nursing Cutoff Marks

Basic Requirements

  • Five (5) O’level credits with English and Maths, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
  • A decent UTME score
  • Post UTME screening performance

National Cut Off Range

  • Federal institutions: 200 to 250
  • State institutions: 180 to 220
  • Private institutions: 160 to 200

By Institution

Federal Institutions

  • University of Lagos (UNILAG): 240
  • University of Nigeria (UNN): 230
  • Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU): 235

State Institutions

  • Lagos State University (LASU): 210
  • Delta State University (DELSU): 200
  • Rivers State University (RSU): 205

Private Institutions

  • Babcock University: 190
  • Bowen University: 185
  • Madonna University: 180

How to Figure Out Your Admission Chances

  • Look at your UTME score
  • Add post UTME score if required
  • Compared to the school cut-off
  • Look at O-level grades

Factors Impacting Cut Off Marks

  • Number of applicants
  • Reputation of the school
  • Space availability
  • Trends in performance based on applications

Tips to Possess Cut-Off Marks

Before your Exams

After the Exams

  • Take the time to check your score
  • Apply to multiple institutions
  • Explore diploma options

What if the Other Options do not meet Cut Off?

Alternative Options

  • Pre-degree programs
  • Remedial studies
  • Change of institutions
  • Further Your Studies in Nursing with a Diploma

Nursing Specializations Cut Off Marks

Many nursing specializations may have:

  • Higher cut-offs for specialties
  • Additional requirements
  • Separate screening

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cut off marks change?

Yes. Schools will change marks from year to year.

Do all schools have the same cut off?

No. Each school makes its cut off.

Is there an age limit for nursing?

Most schools require that you be 16 years.

When do schools announce cut off marks?

After the UTME results come out.

What to do after checking the cut off

  1. Prepare for the post-UTME
  2. Prepare your documents
  3. Apply for screening
  4. Follow the admission lists

Wrapping Your Preparation up

Nursing cut off marks will be different from school to school in Nigeria. Start your results research early to learn more about your chosen institutions and aim beyond the minimum.

You will need to check official school portals to get the latest information on cut off marks. If you plan accordingly and prepare yourself for success, you will gain admission to study nursing in Nigeria.

Importantly, you need to consider schools based on their cut off marks. This will help if you have multiple chances. The nursing profession can be gratifying, especially if you have met the academic requirements.