BREAKING: FG Scraps UTME for NCE Candidates – No More Exam for Teacher Trainees

The Federal Government has abolished the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination requirement for candidates seeking admission into Nigeria Certificate in Education programmes.

Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, announced the decision during JAMB’s 2026 policy meeting in Abuja. Prospective students will now need only a minimum of four O-level credits to qualify.

The exemption also extends to national diploma candidates in non-technology agricultural and agriculture-related courses. The policy takes effect from next year.

Alausa described the move as an “immediate necessity” to ease pressure on JAMB and encourage more participation in teacher education. However, all candidates must still register with JAMB for credential screening and verification through CAPS.