Prospective students aiming for a career in healthcare through the Nigerian Army College of Nursing (NACON) in Yaba, Lagos, must carefully plan their finances and academic preparation for the 2026/2027 session. The institution, which trains both military and civilian personnel, has a detailed fee structure and specific admission criteria that applicants need to understand.
Breaking Down the Cost of Nursing Education at NACON
Understanding the total financial commitment is crucial for students and their sponsors. While the basic tuition fees listed on the college's official website appear modest, ranging from ₦1,250 to ₦10,000 depending on the programme, the overall annual cost is significantly higher due to numerous ancillary charges.
Information from student forums and alumni indicates that the total comprehensive fees for a 100-Level student can reach approximately ₦650,000. For students in 200 Level and above, the total cost is around ₦550,000 per session. This total encompasses a wide array of mandatory payments.
Detailed Fee Structure for New Students
The complete fee breakdown includes both one-time and annual charges. Key components of the cost include:
- Acceptance Fee: ₦20,000
- Post-UTME Screening Form: ₦22,500
- Accommodation: ₦60,000
- Medical Screening: ₦40,000
- Healthcare Insurance: ₦40,000
- Uniforms: ₦20,000 per pair
- Clinical Postings: ₦73,000
- Laboratory Use: ₦15,000
- Nursing/Midwifery Tools: ₦30,000
Additional mandatory fees cover matriculation, library access, sports, student identification, and sanitation. It is important to note that a 5% monthly penalty is applied for late payment of tuition fees.
Payment Procedure for Admitted Candidates
All fee payments are made via direct bank transfer to a designated Sterling Bank account. The required details are:
- Bank: Sterling Bank
- Account Name: College of Nursing Transit
- Account Number: 0063765864
After payment, candidates must present the deposit slip at the College Finance Office to obtain an official receipt. This receipt is vital for all verification and clearance processes throughout the academic session and must be kept securely.
Academic Programmes and Admission Requirements
The Nigerian Army College of Nursing, established in partnership with the University of Lagos (UNILAG) on 17 October 2022, offers several accredited nursing programmes. These include the Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.NSc.), National Diploma (ND) in Nursing, Higher National Diploma (HND) in Nursing, and a Community Nursing programme.
Eligibility Criteria for B.NSc. Nursing
The B.NSc. programme, which held its inaugural matriculation on 13 June 2025, has stringent entry requirements. Applicants must:
- Possess a minimum of 5 O-Level credits in English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in one sitting (WASSCE, NECO, or GCE).
- Be a Nigerian citizen by birth.
- Be between 18 and 25 years of age at the time of application.
- Have sat for the UTME and scored a minimum of 200 marks.
- Have selected NACON as their first choice institution on the JAMB portal.
Requirements for ND, HND, and Community Nursing
For the National Diploma, Higher National Diploma, and Community Nursing programmes, the requirements are slightly different:
- Five O-Level credits in the same core science subjects, but accepted within two sittings.
- UTME score of at least 160 for ND/HND programmes.
- UTME score of at least 130 for the Community Nursing programme.
- The same nationality and age criteria apply.
Navigating the 2026/2027 Admission Process
As of January 2026, the admission process for the new academic session is underway. The first step for all prospective candidates is to obtain and complete the Post-UTME screening application form, available for ₦22,500 on the college's official portal or at the registrar's office.
After form submission, candidates will be notified of the screening examination date and venue through the college's official social media channels. The results of this screening will be sent via SMS, detailing the next steps in the admission process.
Securing a place at the Nigerian Army College of Nursing, Yaba, requires meeting both academic and financial benchmarks. With total costs ranging between ₦550,000 and ₦600,000 per session, prospective students are advised to plan meticulously. By fulfilling the UTME score requirements and preparing the necessary documentation, dedicated individuals can embark on a rewarding nursing career at this premier military institution.
