Abuja, May 11, 2026 — The Federal Government has approved a new policy exempting applicants seeking admission into the National Certificate in Education (NCE) programme with at least four credit passes from sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, disclosed the decision on Monday in Abuja during the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions into Tertiary Institutions organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). The event also included the sixth edition of the National Tertiary Admissions Performance-Merit (NATAP-M) Awards.
Alausa said the policy was developed after consultations with key stakeholders to improve access to teacher education and boost enrolment in Colleges of Education across the country.
He explained that although affected candidates would no longer sit for UTME, they must still register with JAMB for screening, verification of credentials and issuance of admission letters through the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS).
According to him, the reform is aimed at making better use of the admission capacity of Colleges of Education, particularly those serving rural and local communities.
He stated that “candidates applying for the NCE programme who possess a minimum of four credit passes will no longer be required to take the UTME. However, they must register with JAMB, undergo verification of their qualifications, and have their admissions processed through CAPS in line with existing regulations.”
The minister added that the exemption also extends to candidates seeking admission into National Diploma programmes in agriculture and related non-technology courses.
He noted that the policy is intended to reduce pressure on the UTME system while encouraging more participation in sectors considered vital to national development.
Alausa stressed that any admission carried out outside the CAPS platform would not be recognised by the Federal Government, warning that institutions violating approved procedures could face sanctions, including possible suspension.
He also reaffirmed the government’s policy on a minimum entry age of 16 years for admission into tertiary institutions, describing it as part of efforts to ensure academic preparedness and inclusiveness.
The minister said ongoing reforms in the education sector are focused on improving access, quality assurance, governance and accountability.
He commended JAMB for introducing technology-driven innovations that have strengthened fairness and credibility in the admission process.
Alausa further highlighted efforts to support Persons With Disabilities through initiatives such as application fee waivers and targeted inclusion programmes, noting that increased participation of candidates with disabilities reflects progress in removing barriers to education.
He also disclosed that government is advancing digital transformation in education through wider adoption of computer-based testing and integration of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, into learning systems.
According to him, significant progress has also been recorded in stabilising the university system through renewed agreements aimed at preventing disruptions to academic calendars.
The minister called on all stakeholders to uphold integrity and fairness in admissions processes, adding that the outcomes of the policy meeting would significantly impact millions of prospective students seeking higher education opportunities.