Exam Malpractice: FG bans admission, transfer into SS3 nationwide

The Federal Government of Nigeria has banned the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) in all public and private secondary schools across the country.

The announcement was made by the Federal Ministry of Education as part of efforts to stop examination malpractice, especially the use of so-called “special centres” during external examinations like WAEC and NECO.

According to the Ministry, this practice damages the credibility of Nigeria’s education system.

The information was shared in a statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations of the Ministry, Folasade Boriowo.

The new rule will begin from the 2026/2027 academic session.

Under the policy:

Students can only be admitted or transferred into SS1 or SS2

No admission or transfer into SS3 will be allowed under any circumstance

The Ministry explained that the decision is meant to stop last-minute movement of students to schools believed to help candidates cheat during examinations. It will also help schools properly monitor students’ academic progress and ensure steady teaching and learning.

All school owners, principals, and administrators have been instructed to strictly follow the directive. The Ministry warned that any school that breaks the rule will face sanctions according to existing education laws.

The Federal Government said this policy is part of wider efforts to protect academic standards, promote fairness, and restore public trust in Nigeria’s examination system.