Key Points
- Maths is no longer needed for arts course entry. English remains required across all arts routes today.
- Science and social science courses still need maths credit. Technology courses also keep the maths rule in place.
- Policy applies to all post secondary school routes nationwide. Ministry says standards stay high despite lower barriers.
The Federal Government has dropped mathematics for arts course entry. The change was announced on Tuesday by the Education Ministry. It sets a clear rule for admissions into arts programmes.
The policy covers universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. It also guides innovation enterprise institutions across the country. A ministry note says the aim is fewer barriers with standards.
What the new rules change
The new guide sets five credits for degree level entry. English is a must for arts and humanities in university. Further context appears in ASUU warning strike begins.
How the policy applies across schools
For polytechnics at ND level, four credits are needed. For HND programmes, five credits still stand with maths. For NCE routes, English is required for arts and social science.
Officials say the change aligns entry rules with course needs. It stops blanket demands that shut out strong arts students. It also helps schools fill spaces with well matched talent.
The move does not sideline maths in the wider system. Careers in finance, data, and science still need depth. The ministry stresses a smart match of skills to paths.
Campus life still faces other key pressures this month. See our piece as Government warns on no pay. The sector now watches both rules and talks unfold.
“The guidelines remove barriers while keeping standards high,” she said. They set clear, fair routes for all entry points. “They make room for talent across the arts,” she added.
Applicants should still check each course page before they apply. Schools list subject mix and any extra tests there. Many will also share deadline dates and contact points.
The guidelines also fit past calls to renew entry rules. Experts long urged a closer link between study and skills. Today’s change follows that line with simple, clear steps.
Schools will start to align handbooks and admission adverts. JAMB and councils will note the new guide soon. More updates are due as the next cycle draws near.
