Mathematics No Longer Compulsory for Arts Candidates — FG Introduces New Admission Policy
By Joseph Erunke, Abuja
October 15, 2025
The Federal Government has approved a comprehensive reform of admission entry requirements for all tertiary institutions in Nigeria, making Mathematics no longer compulsory for Arts candidates.
The new policy introduces a more flexible and inclusive framework designed to expand access to higher education and promote equitable opportunities for all Nigerian youths.
According to a statement by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education, the new guidelines were approved following recommendations from the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, and align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This policy represents a major stride in promoting inclusivity and driving national development through equitable education opportunities,” the ministry stated.
Outdated Admission Policies to Be Replaced
Dr. Alausa explained that the reform became necessary after years of restrictive admission requirements that denied many qualified students access to higher education.
He noted that although over two million candidates write the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) every year, only about 700,000 secure admission due to “outdated and rigid entry rules.”
“This imbalance must give way to fairness and opportunity. Our goal is to ensure that capable and deserving candidates are not denied education because of obsolete policies,” he said.
New National Entry Requirements
The newly approved National Admission Guidelines update entry standards for universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and Innovation Enterprise Academies (IEAs) while maintaining academic quality.
Universities
- Minimum of five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language, in not more than two sittings.
- Mathematics remains compulsory for Science, Technology, and Social Science courses but is no longer compulsory for Arts students.
Polytechnics (ND Level)
- Minimum of four (4) credit passes in relevant subjects.
- English Language compulsory for non-science courses.
- Mathematics compulsory for science-related programmes.
Polytechnics (HND Level)
- Minimum of five (5) credits, including English Language and Mathematics.
Colleges of Education (NCE Level)
- Minimum of four (4) credits.
- English compulsory for Arts and Social Sciences.
- Mathematics required for Science, Vocational, and Technical programmes.
Colleges of Education (B.Ed Level)
- Minimum of five (5) credits, including English and Mathematics, depending on the course of study.
Innovation Enterprise Academies (IEAs)
- To adopt the same entry requirements as Polytechnics for ND programmes.
- The National Innovation Diploma (NID) has been abolished and replaced with the National Diploma (ND) to ensure uniformity and credibility.
NBTE to Re-accredit IEAs
The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has been directed to re-accredit all IEAs nationwide to meet the new ND standards.
Institutions that fail to meet full accreditation requirements risk de-accreditation, according to the Ministry of Education.
More Students to Gain Admission
Dr. Alausa said the reform is expected to increase yearly admission capacity by between 250,000 and 300,000 students, helping bridge the education gap.
“Our young people are the heartbeat of this nation. This reform ensures that every Nigerian youth has a fair chance to learn, grow, and succeed. We are equipping them with the education and skills they need to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he stated.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive education, human capital development, and youth empowerment, emphasizing that this reform is a critical step toward realizing the Renewed Hope Agenda.
