Primary and Secondary Education in Nigeria

Nigeria follows the 6+3+3 system of primary-secondary education. Six years of primary education are followed by three years of junior secondary education and three years of senior secondary education.

- Elementary education in Nigeria is six years in duration, and runs from grade one through six (ages 6-12). Students are awarded the Primary School Leaving Certificate on completion of Grade 6, based on continuous assessment.
- Junior Secondary Education is 3 years (ages 13-16) Grades 7-9. Students are awarded the Basic Education Certificate (BEC) on completion of Grade 9. Students must achieve passes in six subjects, including English and mathematics, to pass the Basic Education Certificate Examination.
- Senior Secondary Education is 3 years (ages 16-19) Grades 10-12.
- Upon completion of Grade 12 in May/June, students sit for the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE). They are examined in a minimum of seven and a maximum of nine subjects, including Mathematics and English, which are compulsory. Successful candidates are awarded the Senior Secondary Certificate (SSC).
- Most universities require passes in at least five SSC subjects and an average grade of at least ‘credit’ level (C6) or better to be considered for admission.