Babatunde QodriAre you a Nigerian student dreaming of studying in the USA or UK and wondering if your NECO certificate will be accepted for admission? You’re not alone. Many secondary school graduates in Nigeria often ask:
- Can I use NECO to apply to universities in the UK?
- Is NECO accepted for admission in the USA?
- Do I need to write WAEC, SAT, or A-Levels instead?
Photo credit: Linda ikeji
In this article, we break down everything you need to know about using NECO for Admission in USA/UK, including eligibility, requirements, alternatives, and tips to boost your chances of getting admitted.
What is NECO?
NECO stands for the National Examinations Council, a Nigerian examination body established in 1999. NECO conducts the Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) and the National Business and Technical Examinations (NBTE).
The NECO SSCE (June/July) is designed for candidates in their final year of secondary school. It covers core subjects like:
- Mathematics
- English Language
- Biology
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Economics
- Literature
- Government
NECO is similar in structure and value to WAEC (West African Examinations Council), but the big question remains:
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Is NECO Accepted for Admission in the UK?
Yes, NECO is accepted by many universities and colleges in the UK, but with conditions.
Universities in the UK that accept NECO:
Several UK institutions recognize the NECO SSCE certificate as equivalent to the GCSE O-levels. However, they often require:
- Minimum of 5 subjects passed at credit level (C6 or better), including Maths and English.
- NECO results are to be certified by WAEC or NECO issuing body.
- English Proficiency Test (IELTS or TOEFL) may still be required unless waived.
Examples of UK Universities that Accept NECO:
University NECO Acceptance Policy
The University of Portsmouth Accepts NECO with at least 5 subjects passed at the credit level.
The University of Bedfordshire Accepts NECO for foundation programs. It may require IELTS for English proficiency.
De Montfort University Accepts NECO, especially when combined with foundation or A-level qualifications.
The University of Hertfordshire May accept NECO plus foundation or diploma studies.
Verify your chosen university’s policy via their international admissions page. A good starting point is UCAS – Undergraduate Admissions
Is NECO Accepted for Admission in the USA?
Yes and no—here’s how it works:
Most universities and colleges in the USA do not directly accept NECO alone as a complete high school qualification. Instead, NECO is often:
- Accepted as part of your academic transcript from a recognized Nigerian secondary school.
- Supplemented with standardized tests like SAT, ACT, or IB.
- Evaluated by credential evaluation agencies like WES or ECE.
Key Steps to Use NECO for U.S. Admissions:
Credential Evaluation
Take Standardized Tests
-
- Most U.S. colleges require SAT or ACT scores.
- For English, a TOEFL or IELTS score is typically required unless you meet a waiver condition.
Apply to Schools with Flexible Requirements
-
- Some community colleges and smaller universities in the U.S. accept NECO plus SAT/TOEFL without A-levels or WAEC.
Pro Tip:
Contact the International Admissions Office of the school you’re applying to. Provide them with your NECO results and ask for a list of next steps.
NECO vs WAEC vs A-Levels: Which is Better for NECO for Admission in USA/UK?
| Exam Type | Accepted in UK | Accepted in USA | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| NECO | (Many Unis) | (With Evaluation) | May need extra documents |
| WAEC | (More widely accepted) | (With WES/ECE) | Preferred over NECO |
| A-Levels | (Highly accepted) | (Highly competitive) | Expensive but strong credential |
| IB Diploma | Global standard, but rare in Nigeria |
What You Need to Prepare When Applying with NECO
Here’s a checklist for applying to USA or UK universities with NECO:
| Requirement | USA | UK |
|---|---|---|
| NECO SSCE Certificate | (With Evaluation) | (Direct for some schools) |
| Transcript | ||
| English Proficiency | (IELTS/TOEFL) | |
| SAT/ACT | (Required by most schools) | (Not required for undergrad) |
| Credential Evaluation | (WES, ECE, etc.) | (Usually not required) |
| Letters of Recommendation |
Recommended Resources & Links
Here are some important resources to help you navigate the admission process:
- Credential Evaluation:
- Standardized Test Prep:
- College Board (SAT)
- ETS TOEFL
- Application Portals:
- IELTS Booking (British Council Nigeria):
- https://www.britishcouncil.org.ng/exam/ielts
Expert Tips to Boost Your Admission Chances
- Achieve Excellent NECO Grades – At least 5 credits, including Mathematics and English.
- Take the English Proficiency Test Early – Taking the TOEFL or IELTS can significantly boost your chances.
- Use a Credential Evaluation Agency – Especially if applying to the USA.
- Consider Foundation Programs in the UK – If you’re not eligible for direct undergraduate entry.
- Email the Admission Office Directly – This shows initiative and helps clarify NECO requirements.
- Apply Early! – Deadlines for international students can close months ahead.
Final Thoughts
Using NECO for admission to the USA or UK is possible, but it requires additional steps, thorough research, and strategic planning. While NECO may not carry as much international weight as WAEC or A-Levels, it’s still a valid credential if handled correctly.
If you have strong NECO results, combine them with a good TOEFL or IELTS score, use credential Evaluation, and apply to flexible universities that welcome international students. With the right approach, your dream of studying abroad can absolutely come true.
Babatunde Qodri
