NECO Hall Requirements for November 2025 CBT Exams

NECO releases hall requirements for November 2025 CBT exams. Centres must meet strict system, security, and facility standards to host the SSCE External.

NECO Confirms Transition to Full Computer-Based Exams

The National Examinations Council (NECO) has officially confirmed that it will phase out the traditional paper-pencil method. Beginning with the November/December 2025 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) External, all candidates will now sit for their exams using a computer-based test (CBT) system.

This transition aligns with the Federal Government’s announcement that all WAEC and NECO exams will fully migrate to CBT by 2026. According to Punch, both private and public CBT centres will be fully deployed in the exam process to ensure uniformity and fairness.

Key Guidelines for CBT Centre Operators

To guarantee a smooth and secure transition, NECO has outlined strict CBT centre registration requirements. Only centres that meet the following system, hall, facility, and personnel standards will be approved.

A. System Requirements

Each CBT centre must provide:

Minimum of 150 functional computer systems or laptops, with at least 10% (15 systems) as backups.
Minimum specifications: Intel-based Dual Core Celeron/Pentium processor, 4GB RAM, SSD (32GB minimum), Windows 10, and updated browsers (Chrome, Firefox, or Edge).
Flat screen monitors (15” for desktops or 17” for laptops).
A robust server capacity to handle at least 150 systems simultaneously.
Updated antivirus protection with virus-free systems.
All systems connected via cable LAN in a star topology (wireless not allowed).
Gigabit switches with at least two backup switches, running on uninterrupted power supply.

B. Hall Requirements

The examination hall setup must include:

Individual cubicles (minimum 26 x 18 x 18 inches) with appropriate seating.
Adequate air conditioning and proper lighting.
CCTV network with IP cameras, wired (wireless CCTV not allowed).
Trunked cables only (no exposed or flying wires).
Strong MTN or Airtel signal for internet connectivity.
Clearly visible wall clocks (wristwatches are banned in exam halls).
Dedicated CBT centres only (no shared spaces such as cinemas, malls, or markets).

C. Facility and Personnel Requirements

To maintain exam credibility, NECO requires:

Backup power supply (minimum 40kva generator and UPS/inverters with three-hour capacity).
At least two technical personnel and one network engineer per centre.
CBT staff of high integrity to guarantee exam security.
Internal toilets and adequate holding/reception areas for candidates.
Adequate fencing and on-site security personnel.

Why NECO’s New Hall Requirements Matter

The move to a computer-based examination system will help curb malpractice, enhance efficiency, and align Nigerian secondary education assessments with global standards. However, it places higher responsibility on CBT centre operators to meet the strict guidelines for approval.

Preparing for NECO’s November 2025 CBT Exams

With the NECO November 2025 SSCE External set to be fully CBT-based, both candidates and centre operators must prepare adequately. While students should focus on improving their digital literacy and exam readiness, operators must strictly adhere to NECO’s hall, system, and security requirements.

This shift is a significant milestone in Nigeria’s educational system, ensuring credibility, transparency, and global competitiveness in standardized testing.

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