Looking for the cheapest accredited schools of nursing in Nigeria in 2025/2026? This guide lists the top 10 affordable, NMCN-approved nursing schools with tuition, duration, and hidden costs explained.
Dreaming of becoming a nurse but worried about the cost of tuition? You’re not alone. Nursing remains one of the most respected and rewarding careers in Nigeria, but finding a school that offers quality training at an affordable rate can be challenging.
After we published our blog post “Top 10 nursing programs in Nigeria“, we recieved lots or request asking us to write on the cheapest nursing schools Nigeria. Today, we have done justice to that.
This 2025/2026 guide brings you the top 10 cheapest accredited schools of nursing in Nigeria, based on tuition fees, accreditation, and quality of education. All schools listed here are approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), ensuring that graduates can practice legally in Nigeria and abroad.
You can also check out our post on “Scholarships for nursing students in Nigeria” here.
Let’s explore where you can get world-class nursing training without breaking the bank.
1. School of Nursing, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan
The School of Nursing, UCH Ibadan, is one of the most reputable and oldest institutions in Nigeria. Despite its long history and high standards, it remains among the cheapest accredited schools of nursing in Nigeria.
Estimated Fees: ₦150,000 – ₦200,000 per session
Programs Offered: asic Nursing Education (3-year general nursing); Midwifery (post-basic); Perioperative Nursing (post-basic); Occupational Health Nursing (post-basic)
Program Duration: 3 years
Highlight: Strong clinical exposure and research support from UCH
UCH produces well-trained nurses equipped for local and international healthcare systems. The learning environment is serene, with access to modern hospital facilities and experienced tutors.
2. School of Nursing, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife
Located in Osun State, OAUTHC offers a blend of theory, research, and hands-on practice. It’s popular among students for its modern teaching approach and consistent academic calendar.
Estimated Fees: ₦180,000 – ₦220,000 per session
Programs Offered: ND/HND in Nursing; Post-Basic Perioperative Nursing (12 months)
Program Duration: 3 years
Highlight: Integrated university environment that enhances medical training.
OAUTHC’s nursing school maintains its place among the cheapest accredited schools of nursing in Nigeria while delivering top-tier education.
3. Lagos State College of Nursing (LASCON), Igando
Owned by the Lagos State Government, LASCON has grown rapidly in reputation and facilities. The school offers affordable fees despite being in Nigeria’s most expensive city.
Estimated Fees: ₦200,000 – ₦250,000 per session
Programs Offered: Nursing; Midwifery; Public Health; Registered Nurse (RN); Registered Midwife (RM); Registered Public Health Nurse (RPHN)
Program Duration: 3 years
Highlight: Well-structured hostel system and digital learning resources.
LASCON’s affordable tuition, coupled with strong government support, keeps it among the top cheapest accredited schools of nursing in Nigeria.
4. School of Nursing, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu
UNTH is known for academic excellence and disciplined training. The school’s practical-based curriculum ensures that students gain real-life nursing experience.
Estimated Fees: ₦170,000 – ₦230,000 per session
Programs Offered: General Nursing Programme (3 years); Midwifery (post-basic); Post-Basic Nurse Anaesthetist; Perioperative Nursing; Ophthalmic Nursing, etc.
Program Duration: 3 years
Highlight: Excellent clinical training and NMCN accreditation.
It remains one of the cheapest accredited schools of nursing in Nigeria, providing value far above its cost.
5. School of Nursing, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria
ABUTH’s nursing school is a top choice in Northern Nigeria. It combines classroom teaching with extensive hospital exposure.
Estimated Fees: ₦160,000 – ₦200,000 per session
Programs Offered: ND/HND in Nursing; Post-Basic Nursing: Paediatrics, Ophthalmic, Perioperative; Midwifery.
Program Duration: 3 years
Highlight: High employment rate after graduation.
Its affordability and quality make it a consistent mention among the cheapest accredited schools of nursing in Nigeria.
6. School of Nursing, University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Edo State
UBTH offers modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, and qualified instructors. Despite being in a university environment, the school’s fees remain moderate.
Estimated Fees: ₦180,000 – ₦220,000 per session
Programs Offered: ND/HND in Nursing; Post-Basic Nursing: Paediatrics, Ophthalmic, Perioperative; Midwifery
Program Duration: 3 years
Highlight: Balanced academic and clinical curriculum.
UBTH’s nursing program maintains its standing as one of the cheapest accredited schools of nursing in Nigeria with great career prospects.
7. School of Nursing, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), Kwara State
UITH provides an excellent learning atmosphere supported by competent faculty members. The school’s program emphasizes ethics, professionalism, and patient care.
Estimated Fees: ₦170,000 – ₦200,000 per session
Programs Offered:Basic Nursing (RN); Post-Basic Nursing (Accident & Emergency, Ophthalmic, Paediatrics, Nephrology); Bachelor of Nursing Science Degree.
Program Duration: 3 years
Highlight: Exceptional student support and affordable tuition.
If you’re searching for one of the cheapest accredited schools of nursing in Nigeria with quality training, UITH is a solid option.
8. School of Nursing, Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido-Ekiti (FETHI)
FETHI’s nursing school is known for strict discipline, affordable fees, and excellent infrastructure. It is one of the top-ranked federal institutions in Nigeria.
Estimated Fees: ₦160,000 – ₦190,000 per session
Programs Offered: General Nursing
Program Duration: 3 years
Highlight: Government-subsidized tuition and modern hostels.
Its cost-effective program makes it stand out among the cheapest accredited schools of nursing in Nigeria.
9. School of Nursing, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH), Sokoto
UDUTH’s nursing school provides one of the most affordable nursing programs in Northern Nigeria. It is recognized for quality, discipline, and well-structured clinical rotations.
Estimated Fees: ₦150,000 – ₦190,000 per session
Programs Offered: Basic Nursing; Post‐Basic Nursing programmes
Program Duration: 3 years
Highlight: Offers both basic and post-basic nursing programs.
This institution consistently ranks among the cheapest accredited schools of nursing in Nigeria for students seeking budget-friendly education.
10. School of Nursing, Mater Misericordiae Hospital, Afikpo
A mission-based nursing school in Ebonyi State, Mater Misericordiae offers excellent moral and professional standards.
Estimated Fees: ₦160,000 – ₦210,000 per session
Programs Offered: General Nursing programme; Midwifery Courses
Program Duration: 3 years
Highlight: Strong discipline and compassionate training approach.
Hidden Costs You Should Expect
Even in affordable nursing schools, students should plan for additional expenses such as:
- Acceptance Fee: ₦20,000 – ₦65,000
- Hostel Accommodation: ₦30,000 – ₦70,000 annually
- Uniforms, Textbooks, and Equipment: ₦30,000 – ₦50,000
- Examination and Licensing Fees: ₦10,000 – ₦25,000
Budgeting for these costs ensures a smoother experience throughout your nursing journey.
Conclusion
Choosing the right nursing school is about more than just cost. Accreditation, quality of training, and career opportunities are equally important. The institutions listed here are all NMCN-approved and recognized for producing competent nurses.
If you’re passionate about a career in healthcare but on a limited budget, these cheapest accredited schools of nursing in Nigeria provide an excellent starting point. Begin your nursing journey confidently, knowing that affordable education doesn’t mean lower quality — it means smart planning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the cheapest accredited school of nursing in Nigeria in 2025?
The School of Nursing, UCH Ibadan, and UDUTH Sokoto are among the most affordable, with tuition starting around ₦150,000 per session.
2. Are all these schools accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN)?
Yes. Every institution listed here is fully accredited by NMCN, which means graduates can sit for national licensing exams and work legally in Nigeria.
3. How long does it take to complete nursing school in Nigeria?
Most schools run a 3-year Basic Nursing program, after which graduates receive the Registered Nurse (RN) certificate.
4. Can I get a job abroad with a Nigerian nursing certificate?
Yes, but you’ll need to pass international licensing exams such as NCLEX (for the U.S.) or CBT and OSCE (for the U.K.) to practice overseas.
5. What qualifications do I need to enter a school of nursing in Nigeria?
You must have at least five credits in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics (WAEC or NECO) obtained in not more than two sittings.
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