Key Points

• Mathematics no longer required for Arts candidates in tertiary admissions.

• FG reforms admission policies to create fairer, inclusive access.

• Up to 300,000 more students expected to gain admission yearly.

The Federal Government has approved a sweeping reform of admission entry requirements for tertiary institutions, easing long-standing restrictions and making Mathematics no longer compulsory for students in the Arts category.

According to the Ministry of Education, the new policy aims to make higher education more inclusive and accessible for all Nigerians, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

New national admission guidelines unveiled

A statement from Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the ministry, said the guidelines were approved to democratize access to tertiary education and empower young Nigerians.

Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, explained that the change was long overdue, as outdated entry rules had denied many qualified candidates admission despite meeting academic expectations.

“Over two million candidates sit for UTME every year, yet only about 700,000 gain admission,” Alausa said.

“This reform promotes fairness and gives capable students a chance to pursue their dreams.”

Mathematics still compulsory for science, tech, and social sciences

Under the new policy, Mathematics remains compulsory for science, technology, and social science courses but is no longer mandatory for Arts students.

For universities, applicants will need five credit passes, including English Language, in no more than two sittings.

Polytechnics require four or five credits depending on the level, while Colleges of Education and Innovation Enterprise Academies will follow similar standards.

The government also scrapped the National Innovation Diploma (NID) previously awarded by IEAs, replacing it with the more widely recognized National Diploma (ND).

The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) will re-accredit all IEAs to ensure compliance.

Reform to open doors for 300,000 more students

Dr. Alausa projected that the reform would create opportunities for an additional 250,000 to 300,000 students to secure admission every year.

“Our young people are the heartbeat of this nation,” he said. “This reform ensures every Nigerian youth has a fair chance to learn, grow, and succeed.

We are building an education system that supports innovation, inclusivity, and national development.”

The federal government reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusive education and human capital development, emphasizing that equitable access remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s progress.