The federal government has exempted candidates seeking admission to colleges of education from taking the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education, stated during the admission policy meeting for the 2026 UTME in Abuja on Monday that applicants with four credit passes in relevant courses are eligible to apply to colleges of education without writing the UTME.
He stated that such candidates must register with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) while their credentials are screened, verified, and certified for the issuance of admission letters via CAPS in accordance with the present requirements.
The policy takes effect next year.
“Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, there is compelling evidence, including empirical data from the JAMB, that Colleges of Education possess significant capacity to admit willing candidates, particularly from their immediate localities,” Alausa said.
“This is attributable to a range of factors, including proximity, cultural alignment, affordability, and community-based demand for teacher education.
“Harnessing this latent capacity is critical, not only for expanding access but also for addressing the persistent challenge of out-of-school adolescents and fostering, from an early stage, a positive orientation towards the teaching profession.
“In recognition of this reality, the Federal Ministry of Education, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, has taken a deliberate policy position.
“Accordingly, candidates seeking admission into the NCE programme, who possess a minimum of four (4) credit passes, will no longer be required to sit for the UTME.
“However, it is imperative to emphasise that such candidates shall mandatorily register with JAMB, and their credentials shall be duly screened, verified, and certified for the issuance of admission letters through CAPS, in accordance with extant regulations.”
The minister further stated that the federal government has granted exemptions to candidates seeking admission to National Diploma programmes in non-technology agricultural and agriculture-related courses.
According to him, this approach strikes a vital balance between increasing access and maintaining the integrity of our admissions system.
“It will not only ease the pressure associated with UTME but also encourage greater participation in teacher education and agricultural programmes, both of which are critical to national development,” the minister said.
He commended JAMB for its intentional efforts to promote inclusive participation for Persons Living with Disabilities (PWLDs) through application fee waivers and other targeted initiatives.
He described the move as not only humanitarian but also a “powerful affirmation of our national commitment to equity and equal opportunity.”
“The increasing participation of candidates with disabilities in our examinations and admissions processes is clear evidence that when barriers are removed, potential is unleashed,” Alausa said.
He stated that the government will continue to expand support networks, increase accessibility, and deepen institutional response to the requirements of this “important segment of our population.”
“I therefore urge all institutions represented here today to complement these efforts by creating inclusive learning environments that go beyond access to ensure dignity, support, and success for every learner, regardless of physical or social limitations,” the minister added.
