The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the exemption of candidates seeking admission into Colleges of Education from writing the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). This policy shift was disclosed by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, during the admission policy meeting for the 2026 UTME held in Abuja on May 11.
New Admission Requirements for Colleges of Education
According to Minister Alausa, candidates who possess at least four credit passes in relevant subjects are now eligible to apply directly to Colleges of Education without sitting for the UTME. However, these candidates must still register with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). Their credentials will be screened, verified, and certified before admission letters are issued through the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS), in line with existing regulations.
Effective Date and Additional Exemptions
The Minister confirmed that the policy will take effect next year. In addition, the federal government has extended similar exemptions to candidates applying for National Diploma programmes in non-technology agricultural and agriculture-related courses. This move aims to encourage more students to pursue careers in teaching and agriculture, sectors deemed critical to national development.
Alausa emphasized that this approach strikes a necessary balance between widening access to higher education and preserving the integrity of the admission system. He stated, "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."
This decision is expected to reduce the burden on candidates and increase enrollment in key areas of national importance.
