NECO reduces English paper III questions for 2026 SSCE

NECO reduces English Paper III questions from 100 to 80 in 2026 SSCE, updates structure and timing for better student performance

NECO reduces English Paper III questions in a major restructuring of the Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) Internal, set to begin with the 2026 session.

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The National Examinations Council announced that the total number of objective questions will drop from 100 to 80.

This change, disclosed in a circular signed by Osun State Coordinator Sunday K. Bolaji and dated September 1, 2025, is aimed at enhancing exam efficiency while maintaining academic standards.

The updated English Language Paper III will now consist of six structured sections:

Antonyms – 10 questions
Appropriateness of Registers – 10 questions
Idioms, Phrasal Verbs & Foreign Words – 10 questions
Synonyms – 10 questions
Grammatical Structures – 30 questions
Cloze Text – 10 questions

The new duration for the paper will be 50 minutes, a reduction intended to streamline the exam process and reduce cognitive fatigue.

The revision aligns with broader reforms announced by NECO, including its full transition to computer-based testing (CBT) for the November/December 2025 SSCE External.

This marks the beginning of a phased move away from paper-and-pencil methods.

NECO is working closely with the Federal Government to deploy CBT centres nationwide by 2026.

The council has also begun accrediting private and public CBT operators under strict technical and security guidelines to maintain exam integrity.

According to NECO, the goal is to modernise Nigeria’s examination system, reduce examination malpractice, and improve efficiency across all examination stages.

“This change is not just about cutting down questions but improving how we assess learning,” a NECO official commented. “It’s about quality over quantity and ensuring students are tested in a balanced and meaningful way.”

This move is part of a wider national strategy to embrace digital education and enhance student performance by updating both content and delivery.

Also read: Benue students burn principal’s house over unregistered NECO exams

The emphasis on structure, timing, and technological integration reflects NECO’s commitment to a more reliable, fair, and future-ready examination process.