What Subjects Do I Need to Study Nursing in JAMB and WAEC? Nursing is one of the most competitive courses in Nigeria. Each year, thousands of students apply through JAMB or directly into schools of nursing, but only a small percentage secure admission. To maximize your chances, you need to know the exact subject requirements in WAEC/NECO and JAMB, understand why certain subjects matter, and be aware of the kind of scores you need to compete.
Key Takeaways
High scores are essential because Nursing is one of the most sought-after courses in Nigeria.
WAEC/NECO requirements: English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, all at credit level.
JAMB subject combination: English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics.
Competitive JAMB scores: 250+ for federal universities, 220+ for state universities. Nursing schools rely more on entrance exams.
Chemistry and Physics are just as important as Biology for both admission and success in the program.
WAEC/NECO Subject Requirements for Nursing
To study Nursing in Nigeria, you must have at least five credit passes in your O’level results (WAEC, NECO, or GCE) obtained in not more than two sittings. The compulsory subjects are:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Why Chemistry and Physics Are Important
Many students assume Biology is the only major subject for Nursing. However, Nursing is a science-based course that requires a strong background in Chemistry and Physics. Once admitted, students face courses such as pharmacology, human physiology, medical physics, and biochemistry. A weak foundation in Chemistry or Physics can make these areas more difficult to handle.
JAMB Subject Combination for Nursing
When registering for JAMB, Nursing aspirants must choose four subjects:
- English Language (compulsory for all candidates)
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
This is the official JAMB subject combination for Nursing. Substituting any of these subjects—for example, replacing Physics with Agricultural Science—will disqualify your application regardless of your score.
Recommended JAMB Score for Nursing
Nursing is highly competitive, and scoring the minimum cut-off mark is rarely enough. Successful candidates usually exceed the general requirements.
- Federal Universities: Aim for 250 and above. Top schools such as the University of Lagos (UNILAG), University of Benin (UNIBEN), University of Ibadan (UI), and University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) often admit candidates with scores closer to 270 and above.
- State Universities: A score between 220 and 240 may be sufficient, but higher scores increase your chances significantly.
- Schools/Colleges of Nursing: Many schools of nursing in Nigeria now use JAMB for admission instead of only their own entrance exams. The minimum JAMB score is often set around 180, although higher scores improve your chances of being shortlisted. In addition, your WAEC/NECO results, especially in Biology, Chemistry, and English, remain very important because they are still used alongside your JAMB score during the selection process.
Why High Scores Matter
Universities use merit lists, catchment areas, and educationally less developed states (ELDS) policies in admission decisions. For a course as competitive as Nursing, most slots are filled through the merit list. That means only the highest scorers stand a strong chance.
For example, if the general cut-off is 200, Nursing candidates who score 240 or higher are prioritized. Nursing schools also receive hundreds of applicants for limited slots, so candidates with higher scores are more likely to be selected.
Nursing in Universities vs Schools of Nursing
- University Nursing (BSc Nursing): Typically a five-year program, followed by one year of internship and the mandatory NYSC service year. Graduates earn a Bachelor’s degree and are registered as professional nurses.
- Schools/Colleges of Nursing: Typically three years of training. Graduates receive a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Many continue later through direct entry into universities to earn a BSc in Nursing.
