NECO GCE Registration Form 2024/2025 for Private Candidates (SSCE External)

The National Examinations Council (NECO) has officially announced the commencement of the 2024/2025 NECO GCE registration for private candidates. This registration is for the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) External, tailored for individuals not enrolled in the conventional school system. It offers a vital opportunity to earn an SSCE qualification independently.

This guide explains everything about the NECO GCE registration form 2024/2025, including registration requirements, the application process, payment details, and subject selection. If you plan to sit for the exam this year, keep reading to get all the essential information and ensure a smooth registration.

NECO GCE 2024/2025 Registration Requirements for Private Candidates

Applications for the 2024/2025 NECO GCE (General Certificate of Education) are now open. This examination targets private candidates who want to obtain or improve their SSCE results. It is suitable for individuals who missed the regular NECO exams or wish to boost their grades.

Held annually in November/December, the exam is administered by NECO under strict regulations.

To be eligible, private candidates must meet the following requirements:

1. Personal Information

Candidates must provide accurate and complete bio-data:

• Full Name (maximum 40 characters)
• Date of Birth
• Gender
• Nationality
• State of Origin
• Marital Status
• Maiden Name (if applicable)
• Any disability or health condition

Also, a recent passport photograph with a white background is required. Alternatively, a system camera at the registration center can capture this photo during enrollment.

2. NECO GCE Registration Fee

• Standard Fee: ₦22,250
• Additional Costs:
  • ₦500 for the Four-Figure Table (where applicable)
  • ₦2,000 for a waterproof certificate jacket/folder
  • Stamp duty, Remita, and service charges may apply.
• Late Registration: Submissions after the deadline will attract a ₦2,000 penalty.
• Walk-In Candidates: Those registering less than 24 hours before the exam must pay ₦28,000.

3. Subject Selection Guidelines

Candidates are required to register for at least 8 subjects and at most 9. The subjects should include core subjects like English and Mathematics, alongside electives relevant to their field of study. At least one elective must be outside their main specialization.

4. Biometric Fingerprint Capture

Biometric data collection is compulsory. Candidates must submit their fingerprints during the offline registration process. This biometric data will be used to verify identity at the exam venue.

Any mismatch of fingerprints during the exam will be considered impersonation and penalized accordingly.

5. Selection of Examination Centre

Candidates must choose their preferred town or location for the exam during registration. This decision is final once uploaded and cannot be changed later. Candidates should select carefully.

6. Attestation Photocard

After completing registration, candidates must print the NECO photocard. This document is mandatory for entry into the exam hall.

The Referee’s Attestation section must be signed and stamped by any of the following:

• School Principal
• Ordained Clergyman
• Chief Imam
• Commissioned Officer in the Nigerian Armed Forces or Police (not below Captain rank)
• Senior Civil Servant (not below Grade Level 14)
• Licensed Legal Practitioner with over 10 years of experience

7. Special Provision for Visually Impaired Candidates

Visually impaired applicants must declare their condition when entering bio-data in the offline registration app. This helps NECO offer any necessary support or arrangements.

How to Apply for NECO GCE 2024/2025 for Private Candidates

To complete your application for the NECO GCE, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Create an Account

• Visit the NECO official registration portal: https://ssceexternal.neco.gov.ng/
• Click “Register Here” to begin account creation.
• Enter your correct full name, email address, phone number, and password.
• After submission, check your email for an activation link.
• Click the link to activate your account.

Step 2: Purchase Registration Token

• Log into your activated NECO portal account.
• Go to the “Purchase Token” tab.
• Choose the number of tokens to buy (each candidate needs one).
• Proceed to make payment using ATM cards, internet banking, or other available methods.
• After payment, your token(s) will appear in the “My Tokens” section of your account dashboard.

Step 3: Complete Online Registration

• Go to the “Register Candidate” section.
• Input your token number to access the form.
• Fill in your personal and contact information:
  • Full Name, Gender, Date of Birth, Marital Status, Address, State of Origin, Nationality
• Choose between 8 and 9 subjects.
• Select your examination town carefully.

Step 4: Capture Biometric Data

• Download and install the NECO offline app for biometric registration.
• Launch the app on a compatible device.
• Use the app to take a clear passport photo (white background) and fingerprint scan.
• Upload the biometric data using the app to complete registration.

Step 5: Print Your Photocard and Timetable

• After finishing your biometric capture, return to your NECO account dashboard.
• Click “Print Photocard” to download your NECO GCE exam photocard.
• The photocard contains your exam number, subjects, and exam center.
• Download and print your exam timetable for proper preparation.

Conclusion

The NECO GCE 2024/2025 offers a valuable opportunity for private candidates to earn an SSCE certificate. It is essential to follow all registration guidelines strictly and ensure accuracy in your data.

Select your subjects wisely and confirm your preferred center before final submission. Also, avoid late registration to escape extra fees or rejection. Visit the NECO portal now and complete your registration to secure your slot in this year’s examination.

We appreciate you for taking the time to read this detailed guide. If you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this post with your friends preparing for NECO GCE. Best of luck in your registration and examination!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the registration fee for NECO GCE 2024/2025?
The standard fee is ₦22,250, with additional charges for other materials.

2. Can I change my exam center after registration?
No. Once selected and uploaded, your exam center cannot be changed.

3. How many subjects can I register for?
You must register for at least 8 subjects and not more than 9.

4. Can I use a phone to complete the registration?
Yes, but you must download the offline app for biometric data capture on a compatible device.

5. What happens if my fingerprints do not match on the exam day?
You will be treated as an impersonator, and serious penalties will follow.

6. Who can sign my attestation photocard?
Recognized professionals like school principals, legal practitioners, or senior civil servants.

7. Can I pay using a bank transfer?
No. Use ATM cards, Remita, or other supported payment methods on the portal.

8. What is the deadline for registration?
The exact deadline isn’t stated but late registration attracts a ₦2,000 penalty. Register early.

9. Is there any provision for candidates with visual impairment?
Yes. You must indicate your condition during the registration process.

10. Can I sit for NECO GCE if I’ve never attended secondary school?
Yes, as long as you meet the registration requirements and can prepare independently.