One of the biggest decisions at the 2026 JAMB policy meeting was an exemption that changes how thousands of candidates get into colleges of education. Starting from the 2026/2027 admission session, candidates seeking admission into Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) programmes no longer have to write the UTME, provided they meet the O’Level requirement.
Who is covered by the exemption?
- NCE candidates with at least four credit passes in relevant O’Level subjects.
- National Diploma (ND) candidates seeking admission into non-technology agricultural and agriculture-related courses in polytechnics and similar institutions.
Candidates for universities, nursing colleges and other polytechnic ND courses must still write the UTME and meet the minimum cut-off marks.
Do exempted candidates still register with JAMB?
Yes. This is the part many people miss. The exemption is from writing the exam, not from JAMB. Eligible candidates must still:
- Register with JAMB through the designated process for exempted candidates.
- Have their O’Level credentials screened and verified.
- Receive their admission through CAPS, like every other candidate.
Admission letters will only be issued through CAPS after JAMB has certified your credentials. Any NCE admission that does not go through CAPS is irregular.
Why did JAMB introduce the exemption?
Colleges of education have struggled to fill their admission quotas for years, partly because many prospective teachers did not sit the UTME or could not meet the cut-off. Removing the UTME barrier for qualified candidates is expected to widen access to teacher education, which Nigeria needs given its shortage of qualified teachers.
What this means for you
- If you want to become a teacher and have at least four credits, you can apply directly to a college of education for the NCE.
- After the NCE, you can later proceed to a university through Direct Entry to earn a degree.
- If you are interested in agriculture, ND programmes in non-technology agricultural courses are now easier to enter.
Admission deadline for colleges of education
The 2026 policy meeting fixed 31 December 2026 as the admission deadline for polytechnics, monotechnics and colleges of education. Colleges should finish their 2026/2027 admissions by that date.
Browse our schools by state directory to find the colleges of education near you.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a JAMB score for NCE in 2026/2027?
No, if you have at least four relevant credit passes. You still need to complete JAMB’s registration and verification process.
Does the exemption apply to university education degrees (B.Ed, B.Sc Ed)?
No. Degree programmes in universities, including universities of education, still require the UTME and the 150 minimum score.
Is the exemption permanent?
It takes effect from the 2026/2027 session. JAMB policies are reviewed every year, so watch for confirmation at future policy meetings.
