The Federal Government has approved new reforms to Nigeria’s tertiary education admission system, introducing waivers that exempt some categories of applicants from writing the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The policy was announced during the 2026 admission policy meeting organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, as part of broader efforts to widen access to higher education and reduce pressure on the admission process.
Under the revised guidelines, candidates seeking admission into Colleges of Education for the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) programmes may now be considered without sitting for UTME. Applicants are required to possess at least four relevant credit passes and must still register with JAMB for proper documentation and admission processing.
The government also extended similar waivers to selected National Diploma programmes, particularly in agriculture and other non-technology-related courses. Officials explained that the move is intended to boost enrolment in key sectors facing manpower shortages, especially education and agriculture.
Despite the relaxation of entry requirements, authorities emphasised that all admissions must continue to pass through JAMB’s Central Admissions Processing System to ensure transparency and curb irregular admissions.
The Minister of Education noted that the reforms are aimed at improving access to tertiary institutions, reducing barriers for qualified candidates, and addressing the rising number of out-of-school youths across the country.
Stakeholders in the education sector have described the policy as a significant shift that could increase enrolment capacity in institutions while maintaining regulatory oversight.
The reforms are expected to take effect in the upcoming admission cycle.
