The National Examinations Council (NECO) has announced the full transition from the traditional paper-and-pencil testing format to a Computer-Based Examination (CBE) system, beginning with the November/December 2025 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) for external candidates.
According to the Punch publication on Wednesday, the Council said the shift is part of efforts to modernise its operations, strengthen examination integrity and align with global best practices.
The Federal Government had earlier confirmed that by 2026, all school-based SSCEs would also be conducted entirely on computers, with both public and private CBT centres enlisted for the exercise.
In a circular issued on Wednesday, NECO said it had concluded arrangements to ensure a smooth rollout of the new system. It further invited owners of qualified Computer-Based Test centres across the country to apply for accreditation under strict technical and infrastructural conditions.
Minimum Standards for Centres
Each device must meet set specifications, including Intel-based processors, 4GB RAM, and SSD storage, while all systems must run on Windows 10 and be linked to a robust server capable of handling concurrent usage.
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Centres are also mandated to adopt a wired Local Area Network (LAN) in a star topology, supported by gigabit switches and uninterrupted power sources. Wireless connections will not be permitted.
Hall and Facility Conditions
Wristwatches will no longer be allowed inside examination halls; instead, visible wall clocks must be installed for timekeeping.
The guidelines further prohibit makeshift facilities, stressing that examination centres must be permanent CBT sites, not temporary setups within shopping malls, cinemas, or similar shared spaces.
Security and Personnel Requirements
In addition, each facility must have at least two technical personnel and a network engineer on ground.
On security, NECO insisted that only personnel of proven integrity would be accepted to handle examination processes. It also mandated fenced premises, internal toilets, waiting areas for candidates, and adequate security presence to guarantee safety and orderliness.
With these conditions, NECO expressed confidence that the migration to CBT would not only ease examination management but also enhance credibility and transparency across its processes.
