The National Examinations Council (NECO) has officially announced the commencement of the 2024/2025 GCE registration for private candidates. This external examination, also known as the SSCE External, is designed for individuals who are not in the regular school system but wish to earn their Senior School Certificate (SSCE).

Whether you’re retaking failed subjects or completing your secondary school certification, the NECO GCE offers a flexible path to meet your academic goals.

This guide walks you through the entire process – from eligibility and requirements to how to register successfully, fees involved, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Who Is the NECO GCE Meant For?

The NECO GCE is specifically tailored for:

• Private candidates who didn’t sit for the regular NECO SSCE.
• Students who need to improve their previous SSCE grades.
• Individuals seeking to complete their O’Level qualifications for admission or job purposes.

The exam typically holds between November and December each year.

Requirements for NECO GCE Registration 2024/2025

Before beginning the application process, here are the key requirements:

1. Personal Information

You will be required to provide:

• Full name (maximum 40 characters)
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Nationality
• State of origin
• Marital status
• Maiden name (if applicable)
• Any disabilities (must be stated clearly)
• Recent passport photograph (white background) – can be taken during biometric registration

2. Number of Subjects

• You must select at least 8 and up to 9 subjects, including English Language and Mathematics.
• Ensure your subject selection matches your academic or professional goals.

3. Registration Fee

• Standard registration fee: ₦22,250
• Additional charges:
  • Four-figure table – ₦500
  • Certificate folder – ₦2,000
• Late registration fee: Additional ₦2,000 (if you register after the deadline)
• Walk-in registration (less than 24 hours before an exam): ₦28,000

Additional charges may apply (e.g., service fees, stamp duty, and Remita charges).

4. Biometric Data Capture

• Biometric fingerprint capture is mandatory.
• Candidates whose fingerprints do not match at the exam center will be disqualified as impersonators.

5. Exam Centre Selection

• During registration, choose your preferred examination town.
• Note: Exam centers cannot be changed once submitted.

6. Photocard and Attestation

After successful registration:

• You must print your NECO Photocard (containing your exam number, center, and timetable).
• The Attestation section must be signed and stamped by a recognized authority such as:
  • School principal
  • Clergyman or Chief Imam
  • Senior police/military officer (minimum rank: Captain)
  • Senior civil servant (Grade Level 14+)
  • Legal practitioner with at least 10 years’ experience

7. Special Needs Provision

• Visually impaired candidates should indicate their disability during registration.

Step-by-Step: How to Register for NECO GCE 2024/2025

Here’s a simplified breakdown of the NECO GCE registration process:

Step 1: Create a NECO Account

• Go to the NECO GCE portal: https://ssceexternal.neco.gov.ng
• Click “Register Here” and fill in your full name, phone number, email, and password.
• Activate your account via the email sent to you.

Step 2: Purchase a Registration Token

• Log into your NECO dashboard.
• Click “Purchase Token”, select the quantity (1 per candidate), and pay online.
• After successful payment, the token will appear in your account under “My Tokens”.

Step 3: Register the Candidate

• Select “Register Candidate” on your dashboard.
• Enter the token number and complete your bio-data.
• Choose your subjects (8 to 9 total).
• Select your exam town.
• Upload your passport photo (or take one with a system camera).

Step 4: Capture Biometric Data

• Download the NECO biometric capture app from the portal.
• Install it and use it to:
  • Capture fingerprints
  • Reconfirm passport photo
• Upload the captured data to finalize your registration.

Step 5: Print Required Documents

• Log back into your account after registration.
• Print:
  • Your Examination Photocard
  • The Timetable for your exams

Both are essential for entry into the exam hall.

Important Tips for NECO GCE 2024/2025 Applicants

• Register early to avoid late fees or technical issues.
• Double-check all details before submission – corrections after submission are often not allowed.
• Keep your photocard and exam number safe.
• Ensure your biometric data is correctly captured and uploaded.
• Read and understand the exam timetable to avoid missing any paper.

The NECO GCE 2024/2025 offers a valuable second chance for candidates who missed or need to improve on their SSCE performance. With clear instructions, the process is straightforward – but attention to detail is key. Don’t wait until the last minute. Visit the NECO portal and complete your registration today.

Got questions? Drop them in the comments below – we’re happy to help. And if you found this guide helpful, share it with others who might need it.

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NECO Introduces ₦50,000 Fee for Certificate Reprints – All You Need to Know How to Check NECO GCE Result Online How to Buy NECO Tokens/Scratch Cards NECO Result Checker Portal Login – www.result.neco.gov.ng