The National Examinations Council (NECO) has commenced registration for the 2025 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) External, targeting candidates outside the formal school system.
According to a statement signed by the Registrar and Chief Executive, Professor Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, the registration began on July 7, 2025, and will close on September 18, 2025.
Eligibility
Only candidates who have sat for the SSCE Internal examination within the last five years are eligible to apply. Additionally, a National Identification Number (NIN) is mandatory and will be linked to each candidate’s biometric data.
Biometric fingerprints will be captured during registration and verified during the exams to curb impersonation. NECO warned that anyone found with mismatched biometric data would be penalised according to the law.
Registration Process & Cost
- Registration must be completed online at www.neco.gov.ng through a certified cybercafé or NECO office.
- The registration fee is ₦40,000, which covers:
- A four-digit mathematical table
- A waterproof certificate jacket
- All applicable service charges
Payments are to be made on the NECO portal via POS, ATM cards, or Remita.
Late registration, which begins on September 19, will attract an additional ₦10,000 penalty.
Exam Schedule & Requirements
The examination will take place from Wednesday, September 29 to Friday, December 19, 2025.
Candidates are required to:
- Print their photo card, which serves as their exam permit
- Get it signed and stamped by a recognised official—such as an ordained clergyman, senior civil servant, or a similar authority
Candidates can opt for Computer-Based Testing (CBT) where available. Those with special needs must indicate any accommodations required during registration.
Centre Selection & Restrictions
Applicants must choose centres close to their residence, based on available slots. Once selected, centres cannot be changed.
NECO strictly prohibits multiple registrations, warning that such actions will lead to complete cancellation of results.
Candidates are advised to arrive at the exam venue at least one hour before the scheduled time. NECO will allow only one correction to data such as name, gender, date of birth, subjects, or exam number before the examination begins.
Available Subjects
NECO listed a broad range of academic, business, vocational, and technical subjects, including:
- Core subjects: English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics
- Social Sciences & Humanities: Government, Economics, Literature in English, Civic Education, Geography
- Languages: Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, Arabic
- Religious Studies: Christian and Islamic Religious Studies
- Business Subjects: Financial Accounting, Commerce, Marketing, Typewriting
- Technical/Vocational Options:
- Technical Drawing
- Metal Work, Woodwork, and Building Construction
- Auto Mechanics & Spray Painting
- Air Conditioning & Refrigeration
- Welding and Fabrication
- Basic Electricity & Electronics
- Radio, Television & Electronics Works
- Machine Woodworking
- Computer Studies and Data Processing
NECO emphasized that this wide selection reflects its commitment to inclusive education and practical skills development aligned with national priorities.
For more information, candidates can visit www.neco.gov.ng or contact any NECO office nationwide.
