FG Exempts Candidates Seeking Admission Into Colleges Of Education From UTME

The federal government has exempted candidates seeking admission into colleges of education from writing the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

Speaking in Abuja on Monday at the admission policy meeting for the 2026 UTME, Tunji Alausa, minister of education, said candidates with four credit passes in relevant subjects are allowed to apply to the colleges of education without sitting for the UTME.

He noted 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 through CAPS in accordance with extant regulations.

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 added that the federal government has also extended exemptions to candidates seeking admission into National Diploma programmes in non-technology agricultural and agriculture-related courses.

According to him, this approach strikes a necessary balance between widening access and preserving the integrity of our admission 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 deliberate efforts in promoting inclusive participation for Persons Living with Disabilities (PWLDs) through the waiver of application fees and other targeted interventions.

He said the initiative is not only humane 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 said the government will continue to expan support systems, improve accessibility, and deepen institutional responsiveness to the needs of the “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.

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