Universities That Accept NECO, GCE As Entry Criteria In 2025

For many Nigerian students, securing admission into a university is a major milestone. The Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE), such as the National Examinations Council (NECO) and the General Certificate of Education (GCE), plays a critical role in this journey.

These exams serve as key qualifications for gaining entry into higher institutions in Nigeria and, in some cases, abroad.

In 2025, the good news is that many universities continue to accept NECO and GCE results, either individually or as combined results, to meet their admission requirements. This flexibility is a lifeline for students who may have faced challenges in one exam but excelled in another.

In this article, we’ll explore the latest updates on universities in Nigeria and beyond that accept NECO and GCE as part of their entry criteria for the 2025 academic year, helping you make informed decisions about your educational future.

The National Examinations Council (NECO) conducts the SSCE for both internal (school-based) and external (private) candidates, with the NECO GCE being the external version offered in November/December. Similarly, the GCE, often associated with the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), is another option for private candidates. Both qualifications are widely recognized in Nigeria, and many universities allow students to use them individually or combine them to meet the required five O’level credits, including core subjects like English Language and Mathematics.

Nigerian Universities Accepting NECO And GCE In 2025

Based on the latest information, most Nigerian universities: federal, state, and private, accept NECO and GCE results for admission into various programs. Below are some prominent institutions that have consistently accepted these qualifications, with updates relevant to 2025:

University Of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

UNN, a leading federal university in southeastern Nigeria, accepts NECO, GCE, or a combination of NECO and WASSCE results. With its four campuses in Nsukka, Enugu, Aba, and Ituku-Ozalla, UNN offers a wide range of programs, from Medicine to Arts, and remains a top choice for students with these qualifications.

University Of Ibadan (UI)

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

OAU, located in Ile-Ife, Osun State, is another federal university that accepts NECO and GCE results. Students can apply with either a single sitting of NECO or GCE or a combination of both to meet the O’level requirements for programs like Dentistry, Engineering, and Social Sciences.

University Of Benin (UNIBEN)

UNIBEN, based in Benin City, Edo State, accepts NECO and GCE results for its undergraduate and diploma programs. The university, known for producing notable alumni, offers flexibility for students combining results to meet admission criteria.

Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)

Located in Anambra State, UNIZIK accepts NECO and GCE results for its diverse academic programs. With campuses in Awka, Nnewi, and Agulu, the university is a popular choice for students in southeastern Nigeria.

University Of Abuja (UNIABUJA)

UNIABUJA, situated in the Federal Capital Territory, accepts NECO and GCE results across its 12 faculties, including Health Sciences and Law. This makes it an accessible option for students in northern Nigeria and beyond.

Other Notable Institutions

Other universities that accept NECO and GCE in 2025 include Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), University of Jos (UNIJOS), Kwara State University (KWASU), Covenant University, and Babcock University. Private universities like Covenant and Babcock are particularly open to NECO and GCE results, provided candidates meet their specific admission criteria.

However, acceptance varies by institution and program. Students are advised to visit the official websites of their chosen universities to confirm specific entry requirements and whether combined results are allowed.

Key Considerations For 2025

Combining Results: Many Nigerian universities allow students to combine NECO and GCE results to meet the minimum requirement of five O’level credits. However, for competitive courses like Medicine or Law, some institutions may prefer a single sitting or have higher grade expectations. Always check the JAMB brochure or the university’s admission portal for clarity.

Verification: International universities often require official transcripts from NECO to verify results. Ensure your results are authentic and accessible through the NECO portal.

Registration Updates: For NECO GCE 2025, registration began on July 7, 2025, and will end on November 18, 2025, with late registration incurring an additional fee of ₦5,000. The exams will run from November 26 to December 13, 2025, and will be computer-based for 16 selected subjects. Candidates should complete their registration via the official NECO portal (www.neco.gov.ng) (www.neco.gov.ng) and ensure biometric capture is done accurately.

Preparatory Programs: For students whose NECO or GCE results fall short, some universities offer foundation or pre-degree programs that may not require O’level results initially but will require them before advancing to degree programs.

In 2025, NECO and GCE remain vital pathways for Nigerian students seeking admission into universities both at home and abroad. Prestigious institutions like UNN, UI, OAU, UNIBEN, and UNIABUJA, among others, continue to accept these qualifications, offering flexibility for students to combine results where necessary.

To make the most of these opportunities, students should research specific university requirements, verify their results, and complete registrations on time.

By staying informed and prepared, you can confidently take the next step toward your academic dreams with your NECO or GCE results in hand. For the latest updates, always check the official websites of NECO, JAMB, or your chosen university.