JAMB has commenced registration for NCE and eligible non-technological agricultural ND programmes without requiring candidates to sit for the UTME. Applicants must still register with JAMB and meet the minimum requirement of four O’Level credits.
Candidates who wrote the 2026 UTME but wish to switch to an eligible programme can convert their application free of charge. This conversion is available at designated JAMB registration centres.
Federal Government directive drives new policy
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board officially commenced registration for candidates seeking admission into NCE programmes and selected ND agricultural courses. The new admission process follows a Federal Government directive.
The directive aims to increase enrolment in Colleges of Education. It also encourages more Nigerians to pursue careers in agriculture.
While candidates will no longer write the UTME for these programmes, JAMB says all admissions will still go through its Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS). This ensures screening, verification, and quality assurance remain in place.
Who qualifies for the waiver?
The UTME waiver applies to two categories of programmes. First, all NCE programmes offered by accredited Colleges of Education qualify. Second, non-technological ND programmes in agriculture and related disciplines also qualify.
However, prospective applicants should note that not every agricultural course qualifies for the exemption. Technological programmes, including agricultural engineering, will continue to follow the regular admission process.
Minimum requirements for admission
Although applicants are exempt from writing the UTME, they must still meet minimum academic requirements. To qualify, candidates must possess at least four O’Level credit passes in relevant subjects.
They must also present their original O’Level certificates for verification during registration. JAMB emphasised that removing the UTME requirement does not lower admission standards.
Registration remains compulsory
The UTME waiver does not mean candidates can secure admission automatically. Eligible applicants are still required to register with JAMB and pay the applicable fees.
They must also submit their O’Level credentials for verification. Additionally, they must obtain an official admission letter through CAPS.
Where to register and free conversion
Eligible candidates can complete their registration at approved centres nationwide. These include Institutional Professional Registration Centres and JAMB Professional Registration Centres.
Meanwhile, candidates who already sat for the 2026 UTME can convert their existing application free of charge. No additional application fee will be required for the conversion.
However, normal admission processing requirements will still apply.
Read also: Lady Shares Cousin’s JAMB Score After Promising to Buy Her a Phone
