FG Removes UTME Requirement for Some NCE and Agriculture ND Programmes; The Federal Government has announced a new admission policy that removes the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) requirement for some categories of candidates applying into Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) programmes and selected National Diploma (ND) courses in agriculture-related fields.
The policy was announced by the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, during the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions into Tertiary Institutions in Abuja.
Who the UTME Waiver Covers
The waiver applies to two main groups of applicants:
- Candidates applying for NCE programmes
- Candidates applying for ND programmes in non-technology agriculture and related fields
Under this arrangement, eligible applicants will not need UTME results to gain admission into the specified programmes.
Admission Requirements for NCE Applicants
Applicants seeking admission into Colleges of Education will now be able to apply with at least four credit passes in relevant subjects.
The policy is designed to widen access to teacher training programmes and allow more qualified candidates, especially from local communities, to gain admission.
Government officials noted that many Colleges of Education still have capacity to admit more students than currently enrolled.
Waiver for Agriculture-Related ND Programmes
The new policy also covers ND programmes in agriculture and related fields that are classified as non-technology.
Candidates in this category can now apply for admission without sitting for UTME, provided they meet other approved entry requirements.
The aim is to strengthen interest in agriculture and teacher education, which the government sees as key sectors for national development.
JAMB Registration Still Required
Although UTME is waived for some candidates, registration with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) remains compulsory.
All applicants must still pass through JAMB screening and verification before admission can be processed through the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS).
No admission outside CAPS will be recognised.
CAPS Remains the Official Admission System
The Minister stressed that all admissions must go through CAPS.
Any institution that admits students outside the system risks sanctions, including possible suspension of operating licences.
The government says this is necessary to ensure transparency and credibility in the admission process.
Minimum Age Requirement Still 16 Years
The Federal Government also reaffirmed that the minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions remains 16 years.
This rule applies to all institutions and programmes under the current policy framework.
Wider Education Reforms
The UTME waiver forms part of broader reforms aimed at improving Nigeria’s education system. Other ongoing initiatives include:
- Expansion of student loan schemes through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund
- Support programmes for students with disabilities, including fee waivers
- Introduction of computer-based testing in more examinations
- Strengthening digital skills in school curricula
- Measures to reduce examination malpractice through technology and monitoring systems
Focus on Access, Quality and Accountability
The Minister said the reforms are designed to improve access to education while maintaining quality and accountability across institutions.
Stakeholders were also urged to implement decisions responsibly, with clear timelines and measurable outcomes, to ensure the reforms benefit students nationwide.
