After passing the entrance exam or JAMB, many schools of nursing and university nursing programmes invite applicants for an oral interview. It can feel intimidating, but panels mostly want to see motivation, good communication, honesty and a caring attitude. Here’s how to prepare.
What interview panels look for
- Motivation: why you want to be a nurse
- Understanding: a realistic idea of what nurses do
- Communication: clear, polite and confident answers
- Values: compassion, respect, integrity and teamwork
- Resilience: how you cope with stress and challenges
25 common questions with sample answers
1. Tell us about yourself.
Sample: “My name is Ada. I finished secondary school last year with credits in all science subjects. I enjoy helping people, and I’ve volunteered at my church’s health outreach. I’m hard-working, patient and eager to learn.”
2. Why do you want to be a nurse?
Sample: “When my grandmother was in hospital, I saw how the nurses cared for her and explained everything to our family. I want to make that kind of difference for patients and families.”
Avoid saying only “to travel abroad” or “for money”, even if those matter to you.
3. Why did you choose our school?
Mention something specific: its reputation, clinical placements, teaching hospital, pass rate or values.
4. What qualities make a good nurse?
Compassion, good communication, attention to detail, teamwork, honesty and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Give an example of one you have.
5. What do you know about the role of a nurse?
Nurses assess patients, give medicines and treatments, monitor for changes, educate patients and families, prevent illness, and work in hospitals, communities, schools and industry.
6. What are your strengths?
Pick two or three relevant ones with examples.
7. What is your weakness?
Choose a real but manageable one and say how you’re improving it, for example, “I used to find public speaking hard, so I joined the debate club.”
8. How do you handle stress?
Mention healthy strategies: planning, prayer or reflection, exercise, talking to trusted people.
9. Describe a time you helped someone.
Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result.
10. How would you feel caring for a patient of a different religion or culture?
“I would respect their beliefs and treat them with the same care and dignity as anyone else.”
11. What would you do if you saw a classmate cheating in an exam?
Integrity matters. “I wouldn’t take part, and I’d report it according to school rules.”
12. Nursing involves night shifts and dealing with blood. How do you feel about that?
Be honest and positive: “I understand it’s part of the job, and I’m prepared to adapt.”
13. Where do you see yourself in five years?
“As a qualified registered nurse, gaining experience and possibly preparing for a specialty such as midwifery or critical care.”
14. What would you do if a patient refused medication?
“I’d find out why, explain the benefits, respect their decision if they understand, and inform the nurse in charge.”
15. How do you work in a team?
Give an example from school, sport or church.
16. What do you know about current health issues in Nigeria?
Mention one or two: malaria, maternal health, nurse migration, Lassa fever, or primary health care. Show awareness without being negative.
17. Who is Florence Nightingale?
The founder of modern nursing, known for improving hospital conditions during the Crimean War and founding a nursing school in London.
18. How will you fund your studies?
Be honest about family support, scholarships or work plans.
19. What would you do if you made a mistake with a patient?
“I’d report it immediately to my supervisor so the patient can be kept safe, and learn from it.”
20. How do you manage your time?
Talk about planners, prioritising and avoiding last-minute work.
21. Why should we admit you over other candidates?
Summarise your motivation, qualities and commitment.
22. What hobbies do you have?
Share genuine interests and what they teach you.
23. How would you comfort a crying patient?
“I’d sit with them, listen, ask what’s worrying them and offer support or get help.”
24. What do you understand by confidentiality?
Keeping patients’ information private and sharing it only with those involved in their care or when the law requires.
25. Do you have any questions for us?
Ask one thoughtful question, such as “What kind of clinical placements do first-year students have?”
What to wear and bring
- Neat, modest, formal clothes; low shoes; minimal jewellery and make-up
- Original and photocopied documents (O’level results, JAMB, birth certificate, passport photos)
- Your invitation letter and a pen
- Arrive early
Final tips
- Greet the panel politely and maintain eye contact.
- Speak clearly; it’s okay to pause and think.
- Be honest. Panels can tell when answers are memorised.
- Beware of anyone offering “guaranteed admission” for money.