Becoming a nurse is a dream for many individuals in Nigeria, but the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exam is often a barrier for some students. Fortunately, there are nursing schools in Lagos that do not require JAMB for admission.
If you are looking for alternative routes to pursue a career in nursing without taking the JAMB exam, this guide will provide you with a list of schools, admission requirements, and steps to enroll.
Can You Study Nursing in Lagos Without JAMB?
Yes, you can! While most universities require JAMB for admission into Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.NSc.) programs, there are schools of nursing and colleges of health sciences in Lagos that accept students without JAMB. These institutions offer diploma and certificate programs in nursing, which still lead to a rewarding career in healthcare.
List of Nursing Schools in Lagos Without JAMB
Here are some nursing schools in Lagos that do not require JAMB for admission:
1. Lagos State School of Nursing, Igando
- Offers Basic Nursing and Midwifery programs.
- Requires candidates to have at least five credits in WAEC/NECO (including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics).
- Admission is based on entrance exams and interviews conducted by the school.
2. School of Nursing, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH)
- Provides Registered Nursing (RN) training.
- Requires WAEC/NECO results instead of JAMB.
- Admission is granted after passing the school’s entrance exam.
3. School of Nursing, Military Hospital, Yaba
- Offers a three-year diploma in Nursing.
- Candidates must have WAEC/NECO with five credits in relevant subjects.
- Selection is based on internal screening and entrance exams.
4. School of Post Basic Nursing, Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba
- Specializes in psychiatric nursing training.
- Open to qualified Registered Nurses (RNs) who want to advance in the field.
- Does not require JAMB for admission.
5. Lagoon School of Nursing, Apapa
- Offers diploma programs in general nursing.
- Requires O’Level results with five credits in science subjects.
- Admission is through internal exams and interviews.
6. School of Nursing, Nigerian Army College of Nursing, Yaba
- Offers RN and ND Nursing programs.
- ND Nursing program requires JAMB, but RN does not.
- Admission is based on merit and performance in entrance exams.
Alternative Routes to Studying Nursing Without JAMB
If you do not want to take the JAMB exam but still want to become a nurse, consider the following pathways:
1. Enroll in a School of Nursing
- Schools of nursing in Lagos provide Registered Nurse (RN) training without requiring JAMB.
- These programs last three years and prepare students for licensing exams by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
2. Apply for a National Diploma (ND) in Nursing
- Some colleges of health technology offer ND Nursing programs.
- ND programs might require JAMB, but some institutions allow direct application through entrance exams.
3. Take a Certificate or Diploma Program in Health Sciences
- Some private and government institutions offer short-term diploma courses in health-related fields.
- After completing the program, you can upgrade to RN or BNSc programs later.
Admission Requirements for Nursing Schools Without JAMB
Each nursing school has its specific requirements, but the general admission criteria include:
- O’Level Certificate (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB) with five credits in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Minimum age of 16 years at the time of admission.
- Application form (purchased from the school).
- Entrance examination and interview (varies by institution).
- Medical fitness test in some schools.
Benefits of Studying Nursing Without JAMB
If you choose to enroll in a nursing school without JAMB, you can enjoy several advantages:
1. Faster Admission Process
- No need to wait for JAMB results or cut-off marks.
- Direct entry through internal exams and screening.
2. Affordable Tuition Fees
- Nursing schools often have lower tuition fees than universities.
- Government-owned institutions provide affordable training options.
3. Flexible Career Opportunities
- You can work as a Registered Nurse (RN) in hospitals, clinics, and private healthcare settings.
- Opportunity to specialize in midwifery, public health, or psychiatric nursing.
4. Option to Upgrade to a Degree
- After obtaining an RN qualification, you can pursue a BNSc (Bachelor of Nursing Science) degree through direct entry.
Challenges of Studying Nursing Without JAMB
While nursing schools without JAMB offer great opportunities, there are also some limitations:
- Limited Higher Education Options – Some diploma programs may not be recognized for direct admission into BNSc programs.
- Longer Path to a Degree – You might need to complete additional training before advancing your career.
- Competitive Admission Process – Many applicants apply for a limited number of slots in nursing schools.
How to Apply for Nursing Schools Without JAMB
If you are interested in applying for a nursing school in Lagos without JAMB, follow these steps:
- Research Available Schools – Choose a school that matches your career goals.
- Check Admission Requirements – Ensure you meet the O’Level subject requirements.
- Purchase an Application Form – Forms are available online or at the school’s admission office.
- Prepare for the Entrance Exam – Study past questions and review key topics in biology, chemistry, and physics.
- Attend the Interview – Some schools require candidates to pass an interview.
- Complete Medical Screening – Some institutions require a health check-up before admission.
Studying nursing in Lagos without JAMB is possible through schools of nursing, diploma programs, and alternative training routes. These institutions offer quality education and prepare students for professional nursing careers.
If you are passionate about healthcare and patient care, consider applying to one of the recognized nursing schools in Lagos today. With dedication and hard work, you can achieve your dream of becoming a licensed nurse in Nigeria.