Becoming a nurse in Nigeria is both a noble and rewarding journey. The demand for qualified healthcare professionals keeps rising, and nurses are often at the heart of it all. But before you can wear that white uniform and make a difference, you need to first get into nursing school—and that means preparing the right way.
Here’s a simple, no-stress guide to help you get ready for nursing school in Nigeria.
1. Meet the Basic Admission Requirements
Before anything else, check if you meet the general admission requirements. Most nursing schools in Nigeria follow guidelines set by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
Here’s what you’ll typically need:
- O’Level Results: Minimum of five credits in English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. This can be in one sitting or two, depending on the school.
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 16 years old.
- Good English Skills: Since classes are taught in English, it’s important to understand and communicate well in the language.
- JAMB: Some institutions may require you to register for and pass JAMB, so confirm what’s required by your chosen school.
2. Choose the Right Program and School
Not all nursing paths are the same. It’s important to know the type of program you’re aiming for so you can pick the best fit.
Here are the main options:
- Registered Nurse (RN) – A 3-year diploma program.
- Registered Midwife (RM) – Another 3-year program focused on maternal care.
- Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) – A 5-year university program that leads to a degree.
Once you’ve decided on a program, pick a school that is accredited by the NMCN. Accreditation ensures that your certificate will be recognized and that you’ll be eligible to practice after graduation.
3. Prepare for the Entrance Exam
Most nursing schools require an entrance exam. If you’re going the university route, this might also include a post-UTME exam.
Subjects commonly covered include:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
How to prepare:
- Go over your O’Level textbooks and notes.
- Practice with past questions or sample test papers.
- Join a tutorial center or study group for extra support.
4. Build a Strong Foundation
Getting into nursing school is just the beginning. The workload can be intense, so it’s good to start strengthening your skills early.
Here’s how you can prepare ahead:
- Study Consistently: Build a routine that helps you stay on top of your academics.
- Brush Up on Key Subjects: Especially Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Explore Nursing Topics: Start learning basic concepts in anatomy, physiology, and healthcare.
- Improve Your Soft Skills: Communication and leadership are big parts of nursing. Practice listening, speaking clearly, and working with others.
Also, consider reading health-related books, watching documentaries, or attending health seminars. All of this can build your interest and give you a head start.
5. Organize Your Admission Documents
You’ll need a few key documents when applying to nursing school:
- O’Level result(s)
- Birth certificate or age declaration
- Recent passport photographs
- Application form and proof of payment
Keep everything neat, complete, and ready to submit. Missing documents can delay your admission or even lead to disqualification.
6. Stay Focused and Motivated
Let’s be honest—this journey isn’t always going to be easy. Nursing school takes time, effort, and emotional strength. There will be moments when you’ll feel overwhelmed or even question your choice.
That’s why it’s important to:
- Set goals for yourself
- Remind yourself why you chose this path
- Celebrate small wins along the way
- Take care of your mental health
Staying positive and disciplined will carry you through the tough days.
7. Connect With Experienced Nurses
You don’t have to do this alone. Reach out to people already in the nursing field—either online or in real life. Experienced nurses can give you honest advice, exam tips, and a clearer idea of what to expect.
You can connect with them through:
- Health workshops and seminars
- Volunteering at clinics or hospitals
- Social media platforms or nursing forums
Having someone to guide you makes the journey a lot less scary.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for nursing school in Nigeria doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. If you stay organized, study smart, and keep your goal in sight, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a certified nurse.
Take it one step at a time. You’ve got this!
