Last Updated on 2 months ago by Haruna Ayuba
The West African College of Nursing (WACN), a specialized agency of the West African Health Organization (WAHO), is a professional body dedicated to advancing nursing education, research, and practice across West African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Sierra Leone. Unlike traditional nursing colleges, WACN does not offer undergraduate programs like National Diploma (ND) Nursing or Basic Midwifery but provides fellowship programs, workshops, and certifications for registered nurses and midwives. This guide details the estimated membership and training fees for WACN’s programs for the 2026/2027 academic session, application process, and answers to frequently asked questions to help nurses plan effectively.
- Overview of West African College of Nursing (WACN)
- West African College of Nursing Membership and Training Fees for 2026/2027
- How to Pay WACN Fees
- Application Process for WACN Fellowship Programs or Workshops
- People Also Ask
- Why Choose West African College of Nursing?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Stay Updated
Overview of West African College of Nursing (WACN)
Founded in 1980, WACN aims to promote excellence in nursing and midwifery through postgraduate training, continuing education, and professional development. Headquartered in Nigeria, it operates across West African countries, offering fellowship programs in specialties like Community Health Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, and Midwifery. These programs are designed for registered nurses (RN) or midwives seeking advanced qualifications. WACN collaborates with institutions like the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) to ensure high standards. The 2026/2027 session includes fees for membership, examinations, and workshops, reflecting the organization’s operational costs.
West African College of Nursing Membership and Training Fees for 2026/2027
As WACN is a professional body, its fees are associated with membership registration, fellowship examinations, and continuing education workshops rather than traditional tuition. Below is the estimated fee structure for 2026/2027, based on trends from similar professional bodies (e.g., West African College of Surgeons) and limited available data:
| Fee Type | Amount (₦) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Membership Registration Fee | ₦50,000 – ₦70,000 | One-time fee for nurses/midwives to join WACN as fellows or associates. |
| Annual Subscription Fee | ₦20,000 – ₦30,000 per year | Payable by members to maintain active status. |
| Fellowship Exam Fee (Primary) | ₦100,000 – ₦150,000 per attempt | For primary exams in specialty programs (e.g., Community Health Nursing). |
| Fellowship Exam Fee (Final) | ₦150,000 – ₦200,000 per attempt | For final certification exams in fellowship programs. |
| Workshop/Training Fee | ₦50,000 – ₦100,000 per session | For continuing education workshops or short courses (1–2 weeks). |
| Administrative Fee | ₦10,000 – ₦20,000 | Covers application processing for exams or workshops. |
Important Notes:
- Fees are payable via designated bank accounts or online platforms, such as those used by the West African College of Surgeons (e.g., online payment portals). WACN is likely to use similar secure payment methods, possibly through banks in Nigeria or regional platforms.
- Membership registration is required to participate in WACN’s fellowship programs or workshops. Candidates must be registered nurses (RN) or midwives with a valid license from bodies like the NMCN.
- Fellowship programs involve a primary examination (assessing foundational knowledge) and a final examination (for certification). Fees vary by specialty and examination stage.
- Workshops or short courses cover topics like advanced clinical skills or leadership in nursing and are open to members and non-members, with higher fees for non-members.
- Additional costs may include study materials, travel for workshops, or accommodation during training sessions, as most programs are non-residential.
- Fees are estimates based on trends from similar bodies (e.g., West African College of Surgeons) and nursing colleges in Nigeria (e.g., Bishop Shanahan, ABUTH). Exact fees for 2026/2027 are unavailable, so contact WACN directly for confirmation.
- For updates, visit the West African College of Nursing website or contact their office at +234-803-346-4930 (based on general WAHO contact trends).
How to Pay WACN Fees
- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure you meet the requirements (e.g., RN or RM certification, active license) for membership, fellowship exams, or workshops.
- Access Payment Details: Check the WACN website or contact the secretariat for bank details or online payment instructions.
- Make Payment: Pay fees via bank transfer to WACN’s designated account or through an online portal (if available). Provide payment evidence (e.g., bank teller, transaction receipt) during registration.
- Submit Proof of Payment: Email payment evidence to WACN’s designated email or submit it to their office at 6, Taylor Drive, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria.
- Obtain Receipt: Collect an official receipt to confirm payment and complete registration for exams or workshops.
Application Process for WACN Fellowship Programs or Workshops
- Check Program Availability: Visit the WACN website or contact the secretariat to confirm available fellowship programs or workshops for 2026/2027. Applications are typically open annually, with deadlines announced on the website.
- Obtain Application Form: Download the form from the WACN website or collect it from their office in Lagos. The form may cost ₦10,000–₦20,000, based on trends from similar bodies.
- Complete the Application: Submit the form with required documents, including RN/RM certificate, valid license, O’Level results (five credits in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics), and proof of payment.
- Pay Application Fee: Pay the administrative fee (₦10,000–₦20,000) via bank transfer or online portal.
- Prepare for Examinations or Workshops: Fellowship candidates must pass primary and final exams, while workshop participants attend short-term training. Exams are scheduled periodically, likely between April and October 2026, based on WACS patterns.
- Submit Credentials: Provide original documents for verification during exams or workshops at designated venues.
Fraud Warning: Avoid third-party agents or unofficial websites claiming to offer WACN forms or admission assistance. Use only the official WACN website or office for transactions.
People Also Ask
Does WACN offer undergraduate nursing programs?
No, WACN is a professional body, not a college, and focuses on postgraduate fellowship programs and workshops for registered nurses and midwives.
Where is the West African College of Nursing located?
WACN’s secretariat is at 6, Taylor Drive, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria, with operations across West African countries.
How much are school fees at nursing colleges in Nigeria?
For comparison, Bishop Shanahan College of Nursing charges ₦180,000–₦220,000 per session for ND Nursing, while ABUTH School of Nursing charges ₦150,000–₦250,000 per session.
What is the JAMB cut-off mark for nursing programs in Nigeria?
Most nursing colleges in Nigeria, like Bishop Shanahan, require a JAMB score of 150–200 for ND Nursing. WACN’s fellowship programs do not require JAMB.
Why Choose West African College of Nursing?
- Regional Recognition: Offers credentials recognized across West African countries, enhancing career mobility.
- Specialized Training: Provides advanced training in nursing specialties like Community Health and Mental Health Nursing.
- Professional Development: Offers workshops and certifications to keep nurses updated with global standards.
- Networking Opportunities: Connects nurses with regional healthcare professionals through membership and events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do WACN programs require JAMB?
No, WACN’s fellowship and training programs do not require JAMB, as they are postgraduate offerings for registered nurses or midwives.
How much is the WACN membership fee?
The membership registration fee is estimated at ₦50,000–₦70,000, with an annual subscription of ₦20,000–₦30,000, based on trends from similar bodies.
What are the requirements for WACN fellowship programs?
Applicants need an RN or RM certificate, a valid license, five O’Level credits (English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics), and relevant clinical experience.
How can I avoid scams when applying to WACN?
Use only the official WACN website or contact the secretariat at 6, Taylor Drive, Yaba, Lagos, or +234-803-346-4930. Avoid third-party agents or unofficial numbers.
Stay Updated
Follow WACN on Twitter or contact their secretariat for the latest updates on fees and programs. Subscribe to our newsletter for educational news and application tips.
