Are you a student preparing for the Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE)? Here’s some important news you need to know. The National Examinations Council (NECO) is making big changes to its English Language exam, starting with the 2026 SSCE Internal exams. We’ll break down everything you need to know about the new exam structure and the move to computer-based testing (CBT).
These changes are designed to make the exam simpler and more modern. You’ll have fewer questions to answer, and the way you take the test is changing completely. Read on to find out what this means for you and how to prepare effectively.
Contents
Summary of NECO English Exam Changes
- Fewer Questions: The number of questions for English Language Paper III will be reduced from 100 to 80.
- New Time Limit: You will now have 50 minutes to complete the paper.
- CBT Transition: NECO is fully moving to a computer-based testing system (CBT) for all exams by 2026.
- Target Audience: Students taking the SSCE Internal exams from 2026 onwards.
The New NECO English Paper III Structure
The English Language exam will now be split into six clear sections. This new structure is meant to help you focus on different areas of the English language. Here’s a simple breakdown of the new format:
- Antonyms: 10 questions
- Appropriateness of Registers: 10 questions
- Interpretation of Idioms, Phrasal Verbs, and Foreign Words: 10 questions
- Synonyms: 10 questions
- Grammatical Structures: 30 questions
- Cloze Text: 10 questions
With a total of 80 questions and a time limit of 50 minutes, it’s important to be fast and accurate. Practice is key to mastering this new format.
NECO Big Move to Computer Based Testing (CBT)
In line with a government directive, NECO is officially transitioning from paper-and-pencil exams to a full CBT system. This change will start with the November/December 2025 SSCE External exams. By 2026, all school-based SSCEs will also be conducted at accredited CBT centers across the country.
The goal of this shift is to make exams more secure and modern. It will help to:
- Reduce exam malpractice and cheating.
- Improve the speed of marking and result release.
- Prepare students for a digital world.
ALSO READ: NECO CBE Centre Accreditation 2025: Official Requirements & How to Apply Now
What This Means for You
If you are an SSCE candidate, you need to start preparing for both the new English exam structure and the CBT format. Practice taking mock exams on a computer to get used to the system. Understanding the new layout of the English paper will help you manage your time better and answer questions with confidence.
NECO has also invited CBT center operators to apply for approval, which will help ensure that there are enough safe and secure centers for students to write their exams. This move shows the commitment to making the examination process fair and efficient for everyone.
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