Nursing Science is one of the most sought-after courses in Nigeria for students passionate about healthcare and service to humanity. With the rising demand for nurses and healthcare professionals, gaining admission into a reputable university offering Nursing Science has become increasingly competitive. Many students now consider private universities as an alternative to public institutions due to their flexibility, smaller class sizes, and sometimes more affordable tuition compared to high-demand federal universities.
If you are a JAMB 2026 candidate aspiring to study Nursing Science, this guide will walk you through affordable private universities in Nigeria, their fees, admission requirements, and tips to strategically choose your four JAMB form options.
Why Choose Private Universities for Nursing Science?
While federal and state universities offer Nursing Science programs, private universities have several advantages:
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Lower competition for admission: Some public universities have extremely high cut-off marks (often 220+), which can be challenging for many candidates.
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Flexible payment plans: Many private universities allow installment payments, making it easier for students from low-income families to afford quality education.
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Smaller class sizes: Private universities often have smaller student populations, ensuring better lecturer-student interaction.
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Modern facilities: Most private universities invest in modern classrooms, laboratories, and healthcare training facilities.
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Scholarship opportunities: Several private institutions offer merit-based or need-based scholarships to reduce tuition costs.
With these advantages, private universities can be an excellent choice for Nursing Science aspirants, especially if your goal is admission in 2026.
JAMB 2026 Requirements for Nursing Science
Before exploring universities, it is essential to know the UTME requirements for Nursing Science:
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JAMB UTME Subjects: English Language, Biology, Chemistry, Physics
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Minimum JAMB Score: Most private universities accept 180–200 and above, but higher scores increase admission chances.
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O’Level Requirements:
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Five credit passes at SSCE/NECO/GCE level including:
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English Language
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Mathematics
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Physics
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Some universities may have slightly higher or lower requirements, so it is important to check each institution’s cut-off marks for 2026.
Affordable Private Universities Offering Nursing Science in Nigeria
Here is a detailed list of affordable private universities where you can study Nursing Science, including tuition estimates, locations, and admission insights.
1. Achievers University, Owo (Ondo State)
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Course Offered: Nursing Science
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Tuition Fee: ₦600,000 – ₦700,000 per session
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Location: Owo, Ondo State
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Admission Notes: Achievers University has a well-accredited Nursing Science program recognized by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
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JAMB Tips: Use Achievers University as your 3rd or 4th choice if your score is slightly below federal university cut-offs.
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Facilities: Modern science laboratories, nursing practice labs, and hostels with flexible accommodation.
Why Consider: Affordable tuition and strong nursing program accreditation make it ideal for students seeking quality education without extremely high fees.
2. Lead City University, Ibadan (Oyo State)
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Course Offered: Nursing Science
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Tuition Fee: ₦600,000 – ₦750,000 per session
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Location: Ibadan, Oyo State
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Admission Notes: Lead City University is recognized by NUC and NMCN, ensuring your degree is valid and professional.
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JAMB Tips: Strong candidate backup option if your score is between 200–220.
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Facilities: Equipped nursing labs, library, hostels, and student health facilities.
Why Consider: Known for affordability and flexible fee payment, it is one of the most practical private options for Nursing Science aspirants.
3. Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu (Osun State)
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Course Offered: Nursing Science
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Tuition Fee: ₦350,000 – ₦450,000 per session
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Location: Ipetumodu, Osun State
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Admission Notes: Oduduwa University is one of the cheapest private options offering Nursing Science, making it suitable for candidates on a tight budget.
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Facilities: Basic but functional science laboratories and hostels.
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JAMB Tips: Ideal as a backup choice on your JAMB form.
Why Consider: Lowest tuition among Nigerian private universities offering Nursing Science, making it accessible for most students.
4. Novena University, Ogume (Delta State)
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Course Offered: Nursing Science
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Tuition Fee: ₦400,000 – ₦500,000 per session
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Location: Ogume, Delta State
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Admission Notes: Accredited Nursing Science program with active clinical attachments.
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JAMB Tips: Mid-range choice for candidates seeking quality and affordability.
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Facilities: Standard labs, hostels, and library services.
Why Consider: Affordable with well-structured Nursing Science curriculum.
5. Madonna University, Elele (Rivers/Anambra State)
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Course Offered: Nursing Science
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Tuition Fee: ₦600,000 – ₦800,000 per session
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Location: Elele, Rivers State (main campus) and other campuses in Anambra
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Admission Notes: Well-established program, recognized by NMCN, with opportunities for clinical practice in affiliated hospitals.
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Facilities: Modern nursing laboratories and healthcare simulation centers.
Why Consider: Reputation and quality of nursing training make it attractive despite slightly higher tuition.
6. Rhema University, Aba (Abia State)
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Course Offered: Nursing Science
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Tuition Fee: ₦600,000 – ₦750,000 per session
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Location: Aba, Abia State
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Admission Notes: Accredited and recognized by relevant councils. Good practical exposure through partnerships with local hospitals.
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JAMB Tips: Excellent South-East private university option for Nursing Science.
Why Consider: Accessible location for South-East candidates; affordable fees.
7. Chrisland University, Abeokuta (Ogun State)
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Course Offered: Nursing Science
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Tuition Fee: ₦500,000 – ₦650,000 per session
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Location: Abeokuta, Ogun State
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Admission Notes: NUC accredited, with well-equipped nursing laboratories.
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Facilities: Hostels, labs, library, and healthcare training units.
Why Consider: Mid-fee, well-structured program for aspirants with moderate JAMB scores.
8. Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin (Kwara State)
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Course Offered: Nursing Science
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Tuition Fee: ₦550,000 – ₦700,000 per session
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Location: Ilorin, Kwara State
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Admission Notes: Recognized program with clinical training attachments in local hospitals.
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JAMB Tips: Suitable as a backup choice for candidates aiming for a strong South-West private university.
Why Consider: Affordable tuition and recognized program quality.
Tips for Filling JAMB 2026 Form with Affordable Private Universities
Even though registration is over, this section is helpful for aspirants looking ahead or those considering direct entry for 2026/2027:
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Prioritize your first choice: If you are set on Nursing Science, your first choice should be the university you most want to attend (e.g., ABSU or IMSU).
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Use federal or highly-rated state universities as second choice: Provides prestige and wider recognition.
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Use affordable private universities as third/fourth choices: Ensures admission if your score is lower than expected.
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Check accreditation: Always confirm that the university and course are recognized by NUC and NMCN.
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JAMB Subject Combination: Always select English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics for Nursing Science.
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Scholarships: Look for merit-based or bursary options to reduce tuition costs.
Scholarship and Financial Aid Tips
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Merit Scholarships: Many private universities offer scholarships to top-performing students in JAMB or internal exams.
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Sibling/Staff Discounts: Some schools offer tuition discounts if your parent works at the university or you have siblings enrolled.
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Payment Plans: Most affordable private universities allow installment payment rather than full upfront payment.
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External Scholarships: Organizations like the Nigerian Nurses Association occasionally sponsor students pursuing Nursing Science.
Conclusion
Choosing affordable private universities for Nursing Science in Nigeria is a smart strategy for JAMB 2026 aspirants seeking quality education without extreme tuition costs. Schools like Oduduwa University, Achievers University, Lead City University, Madonna University, and Rhema University offer well-accredited programs recognized by NUC and NMCN, making them ideal backup or even primary options.
By understanding tuition fees, location, JAMB requirements, and scholarship opportunities, candidates can strategically select their four-choice options to maximize admission chances. With dedication, proper preparation, and smart selection of universities, Nursing Science aspirants can secure a bright future in healthcare.
Remember: Always verify the latest NUC and NMCN accreditation status, expected cut-off marks, and tuition fees before filling your JAMB or DE forms. Preparation, research, and strategy are key to success in JAMB 2026 and beyond.
Table 1: Affordable Private Universities Offering Nursing Science
| S/N | University Name | Location | Tuition Fee (₦) | Accreditation | Notes / Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Achievers University | Owo, Ondo | 600,000 – 700,000 | NUC, NMCN | Well-accredited, good clinical exposure |
| 2 | Lead City University | Ibadan, Oyo | 600,000 – 750,000 | NUC, NMCN | Flexible payment, small class size |
| 3 | Oduduwa University | Ipetumodu, Osun | 350,000 – 450,000 | NUC, NMCN | Cheapest option, functional labs |
| 4 | Novena University | Ogume, Delta | 400,000 – 500,000 | NUC, NMCN | Mid-range fees, practical training |
| 5 | Madonna University | Elele, Rivers / Anambra | 600,000 – 800,000 | NUC, NMCN | Established program, strong facilities |
| 6 | Rhema University | Aba, Abia | 600,000 – 750,000 | NUC, NMCN | South-East location, affordable fees |
| 7 | Chrisland University | Abeokuta, Ogun | 500,000 – 650,000 | NUC, NMCN | Mid-fee, well-equipped labs |
| 8 | Al-Hikmah University | Ilorin, Kwara | 550,000 – 700,000 | NUC, NMCN | Affordable, strong program recognition |
Table 2: Recommended JAMB 2026 Choices Using Affordable Private Universities
| Choice | University | Suggested Priority | Expected JAMB Score | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Abia State University (ABSU) | First Choice | 200+ | Main target for Nursing Science in South-East |
| 2 | University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | Second Choice | 220+ | Prestigious federal option |
| 3 | Achievers University | Third Choice | 180+ | Affordable backup private university |
| 4 | Oduduwa University | Fourth Choice | 180+ | Cheapest backup private option |
| University | Location | Tuition | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lead City University | Ibadan | 600k–750k | Flexible payment, small classes |
| Novena University | Ogume | 400k–500k | Mid-range fees, practical labs |
| Madonna University | Elele | 600k–800k | Strong facilities, established program |
| Rhema University | Aba | 600k–750k | South-East location, affordable |
