If you are planning to study Nursing Science in Nigeria in 2026, one of the first questions you will ask is simple but very important: Which University Has the Lowest Cut Off Mark For Nursing 2026?
The truth is, Nursing is one of the most competitive courses in Nigeria. Thousands of candidates apply every year, yet only a limited number gain admission. Because of this, most universities set high cut-off marks.
However, there are still some universities that accept lower scores, and this guide will show you exactly where your chances are higher.
Understanding Nursing Cut Off Marks in Nigeria 2026
Before answering the question, Which University Has the Lowest Cut Off Mark For Nursing 2026, you need to understand how cut-off marks work.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) sets a general benchmark for all universities. For 2026, the general cut-off mark for universities is around 150, but Nursing does not follow this minimum strictly.
Most universities set their own departmental cut-off marks, and for Nursing, this is usually higher due to competition.
- General JAMB benchmark: 150
- Typical Nursing range: 160 – 240
- Highly competitive schools: 240 – 280+
This means that even if you score 150, it does not guarantee admission into Nursing.
READ ALSO: JAMB Cut Off Mark For Nursing 2026/2027 | Approved
So, Which University Has the Lowest Cut Off Mark For Nursing 2026?
Based on the most recent data from multiple education platforms, the universities with the lowest cut off marks for Nursing in Nigeria include:
1. Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare (FUHSA)
- Cut-off mark: 160
2. Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun (FUHSI)
- Cut-off mark: 160
3. Federal University, Lafia (FULAFIA)
- Cut-off mark: 170
4. University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
- Cut-off mark: 180
5. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
- Cut-off mark: 180
These universities currently rank among the lowest options for Nursing admission in Nigeria.
In some earlier trends, institutions like Prince Abubakar Audu University were reported to go as low as 150, but this is rare and may change yearly due to competition.
Why Some Universities Have Lower Nursing Cut Off Marks
To properly understand Which University Has the Lowest Cut Off Mark For Nursing 2026, you must look at the factors behind it.
1. Location
Universities in less populated or less competitive regions tend to have lower cut-off marks.
2. Newer Institutions
New universities, especially federal health science universities, often reduce cut-off marks to attract students.
3. Admission Demand
Schools with fewer applicants naturally lower their requirements.
4. Facilities and Capacity
Some institutions admit fewer students, which raises their cut-off marks.
Comparison Table of Nursing Cut Off Marks 2026/2027
| Category | University Type | Cut-Off Range |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest-tier universities | New federal/state | 160 – 180 |
| Mid-range universities | State/private | 180 – 220 |
| Competitive universities | Federal | 220 – 260 |
| Top universities | Elite | 260 – 290 |
This table clearly shows where you stand depending on your JAMB score.
Universities With High Cut Off Marks for Nursing 2026/2027
To fully answer Which University Has the Lowest Cut Off Mark For Nursing 2026, it helps to compare with high-end universities:
- University of Ibadan (UI): 250
- University of Lagos (UNILAG): 240
- University of Calabar (UNICAL): 270
- University of Benin (UNIBEN): 250
These schools are extremely competitive and not ideal if your score is below 230.
Full List of Universities Offering Nursing With Lower Scores
Here are more universities you can consider if your score is not very high:
| University | Cut-Off Mark |
|---|---|
| Godfrey Okoye University | 180 |
| OAUSTECH | 180 |
| Trinity University | 200 |
| Osun State University | 200 |
| Benson Idahosa University | 200 |
These options are realistic for candidates with moderate scores.
Key Insight: The Real Answer
When people ask, Which University Has the Lowest Cut Off Mark For Nursing 2026, the honest answer is:
Federal Universities of Health Sciences (Azare and Ila-Orangun) currently offer the lowest realistic cut-off marks at around 160.
However, admission is still competitive, and scoring higher always improves your chances.
Important Admission Factors Beyond Cut-Off Marks
Even if you choose a university with a low cut-off mark, admission is not guaranteed.
1. Post-UTME Screening
Most schools conduct additional screening.
2. O’Level Results
You need at least five credits including:
- English
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
3. Aggregate Score
Your final admission depends on a combination of:
- JAMB score
- Post-UTME
- O’Level performance
How to Gain Nursing Admission With a Low Score
If your score is between 160 and 200, here is a smart approach:
Choose Less Competitive Schools
Target schools that answer the question Which University Has the Lowest Cut Off Mark For Nursing 2026.
1. Apply Early
Early applicants often have better chances.
2. Consider Private Universities
They usually have lower competition.
3. Be Flexible With Location
Avoid limiting yourself to major cities.
Alternative Options If Your Score Is Very Low
If your score is below 160, consider:
1. College of Nursing
Cut-off marks can go as low as 140.
2. Change of Course
Switch temporarily and later transfer.
3. JUPEB or Pre-Degree
These programs can help you gain admission without JAMB.
Why Nursing Is So Competitive in Nigeria
Understanding this will help you accept why the question Which University Has the Lowest Cut Off Mark For Nursing 2026 is so important.
- High job demand globally
- Opportunity to travel abroad
- Respectable profession
- Limited admission slots
This is why universities keep raising their cut-off marks yearly.
Expert Tips to Increase Your Chances
- Aim for 200+ even if applying to low-cut schools
- Score high in Biology and Chemistry
- Prepare well for Post-UTME
- Avoid last-minute registration mistakes
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which University Has the Lowest Cut Off Mark For Nursing 2026?
Federal University of Health Sciences (Azare and Ila-Orangun) currently have the lowest at around 160.
2. Can I Study Nursing With 150?
It is very unlikely in universities, but possible in Colleges of Nursing.
3. Is 180 a Good Score for Nursing?
Yes, but only for less competitive schools.
4. Can I Gain Admission With 160?
Yes, but your options are limited.
Conclusion
To conclude, the answer to Which University Has the Lowest Cut Off Mark For Nursing 2026 is clear. While many universities require 200 and above, some institutions still accept lower scores, especially:
- Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare
- Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun
- Federal University, Lafia
These schools give hope to candidates with lower scores.
However, do not rely only on cut-off marks. Always aim higher because Nursing remains highly competitive in Nigeria.
If you are serious about studying Nursing, your goal should not just be to find Which University Has the Lowest Cut Off Mark For Nursing 2026, but to position yourself strongly enough to gain admission anywhere.
An education writer with almost a decade of experience helping Nigerian students prepare for JAMB and Admission. Hauwa is passionate about ensuring that students have the resources and guides they need to succeed in their academic journey.
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