Federal Government Bans Admission and Transfer into SS3 Nationwide

The Federal Government has announced comprehensive anti-malpractice measures for 2026 WAEC and NECO examinations, including a nationwide ban on SS3 transfers and several new security protocols announced on January 5, 2026.

New Anti-Malpractice Measures (January 2026)

1. Enhanced Question Randomization

All candidates will receive identical question content, but with unique sequencing and arrangement. This approach aims to drastically reduce opportunities for collusion and answer-copying during examinations.

2. Learner Identity System

A unique Examination Learners' Identity Number will be introduced for all candidates, enabling better tracking and accountability throughout the examination process.

3. Standardized Continuous Assessment Deadlines

New CA submission deadlines have been established:

• First Term: January
• Second Term: April
• Third Term: August

These timelines apply to WAEC, NECO, NBAIS, and other examination bodies.

4. SS3 Transfer Ban Reaffirmed

The government reaffirmed strict enforcement of the December 2025 ban on transferring Senior Secondary School Three students, citing connections between last-minute school changes and organized malpractice schemes.

Original December 2025 SS3 Transfer Ban

The Federal Government announced a nationwide ban on the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) in both public and private secondary schools across Nigeria, effective from the 2026/2027 academic session.

Official Announcement

The directive was issued by the Federal Ministry of Education in a press release dated December 14, 2025, and signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations.

What is Banned

Starting from the 2026/2027 academic session:

• Admission into SS3 is completely prohibited
• Transfer into SS3 is completely prohibited
• Admissions and transfers are now restricted strictly to SS1 and SS2 only
• Admission or transfer into SS3 will not be permitted under any circumstance

Reasons for the Policy

The Federal Ministry of Education stated that the decision was taken following "growing concerns over the increasing incidence of examination malpractice, including the use of so-called special centres during external examinations."

The ministry emphasized that such practices "undermine the integrity and credibility of Nigeria's education system."

Specific Issues Being Addressed

• Last-minute student movement for examination-related advantages
• Examination malpractice through special centres and irregular admissions
• Lack of academic monitoring for students who join late in their secondary education
• Disruption of teaching and learning continuity

Compliance and Enforcement

The Federal Ministry of Education has directed school proprietors, principals, and administrators nationwide to comply fully with the new policy.

Penalties for Violations

• "Any violation will attract appropriate sanctions in line with existing education regulations and guidelines"
• Schools that admit or transfer students into SS3 after the 2026/2027 session will face regulatory action

What This Means for Students and Parents

Current SS1 and SS2 Students

• You are not affected by this policy
• Continue your education normally in your current school
• Plan to complete SS3 in your current school

Students Planning to Transfer

• If you're in SS1 or SS2, you can still transfer to another school
• If you're entering SS3 in 2026/2027 or later, you cannot transfer to a new school
• Plan your secondary education path early and choose schools carefully

New Secondary School Students (2026 onwards)

• You can only gain admission into SS1
• Choose your secondary school carefully as you cannot transfer into SS3
• Ensure the school you select can support you through to SS3

Key Takeaways

• Question randomization introduced for all 2026 WAEC/NECO exams
• Learner Identity Numbers to track candidates throughout exam process
• CA deadlines standardized across all examination bodies
• No SS3 admissions or transfers from 2026/2027 onwards
• Policy aims to curb examination malpractice and special centres
• Violating schools will face sanctions

These comprehensive measures represent the Federal Government's renewed commitment to maintaining academic standards, promoting fairness, and restoring credibility to Nigeria's public examinations.