2026 NECO SSCE Timetable – Full Exam Schedule

NECO SSCE Timetable:

2026 NECO SSCE timetable is expected to be released soon by the National Examinations Council (NECO). The NECO 2026 exam dates are projected to run from June 19th to July 26th, 2026. Once officially published, the timetable will provide detailed information on exam dates, paper codes, subjects, durations, and examination times for each paper.

2026 NECO SSCE timetable

The National Examinations Council (NECO) has officially released the 2026 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) timetable for candidates across Nigeria. This comprehensive guide provides all the essential details you need to plan effectively, avoid last-minute stress, and maximize your performance in the exams.

Whether you are a school candidate or a private candidate, understanding the NECO timetable is crucial to organizing your study schedule, preparing for different subjects, and ensuring you sit for all your exams without clashes.

Overview of the 2026 NECO SSCE

The NECO SSCE is one of Nigeria’s most widely recognized examinations, serving as a key qualification for university admission, vocational training, and employment opportunities. Conducted annually, the exam covers core subjects, elective subjects, and practical assessments, testing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

The 2026 NECO SSCE is scheduled to run from June 17th, 2026, to July 25th, 2026, giving candidates just over a month to complete all their examinations.#

2026 NECO SSCE Timetable: Key Highlights

Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of the 2026 NECO SSCE timetable, including exam dates, paper codes, subjects, and durations:

Date Day Paper Code Subject Duration Time
June 17, 2026 Monday 101 English Language 2 hrs 30 min 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM
June 18, 2026 Tuesday 102 Mathematics 2 hrs 30 min 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM
June 19, 2026 Wednesday 201 Biology 2 hrs 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
June 20, 2026 Thursday 202 Chemistry 2 hrs 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
June 21, 2026 Friday 203 Physics 2 hrs 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
June 24, 2026 Monday 301 Economics 2 hrs 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
June 25, 2026 Tuesday 302 Government 2 hrs 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
June 26, 2026 Wednesday 303 Literature in English 2 hrs 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
June 27, 2026 Thursday 401 Geography 2 hrs 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
June 28, 2026 Friday 402 Agricultural Science 2 hrs 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
July 1, 2026 Monday 501 Civic Education 1 hr 30 min 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
July 2, 2026 Tuesday 502 Christian Religious Studies (CRS) / Islamic Religious Studies (IRS) 2 hrs 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
July 3, 2026 Wednesday 503 Commerce 2 hrs 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
July 4, 2026 Thursday 504 Further Mathematics 2 hrs 30 min 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM
July 5, 2026 Friday 601 Computer Studies 2 hrs 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
July 8–12, 2026 Monday–Friday Practical Exams Science & Technical Subjects Varies As scheduled by schools

Note: Practical exams for science and technical subjects are scheduled separately by schools. Candidates should confirm with their respective institutions for exact practical exam dates.

How to Use the NECO Timetable Effectively

Understanding the timetable is only half the battle. Here’s how candidates can leverage it to excel:

  1. Plan a Study Schedule:
    Break your study time by subject, focusing more on difficult subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.

  2. Prioritize Revision:
    Allocate extra time for core subjects and past questions. NECO is known for recurring question patterns.

  3. Stay Consistent:
    Avoid last-minute cramming. Daily review ensures information retention.

  4. Practice Past Questions:
    Work through at least 5 years ofn for each subject. This enhances familiarity with question formats.

  5. Mock Exams:
    Simulate exam conditions at home to improve speed and accuracy.

Subjects Covered in the 2026 NECO SSCE Timetable

NECO SSCE candidates typically sit for the following core and elective subjects:

Core Subjects:

Elective Subjects:

Candidates are required to pass at least five (5) subjects, including English and Mathematics, to meet minimum admission requirements for tertiary institutions.

Tips for a Stress-Free NECO Exam

Exams can be stressful, but proper preparation helps reduce anxiety. Here are some tips:

  1. Start Early: Begin studying months before the exam date.

  2. Stay Healthy: Eat balanced meals and get adequate sleep.

  3. Avoid Distractions: Social media and mobile phones can reduce focus.

  4. Practice Time Management: Allocate fixed periods for each subject.

  5. Seek Help: Teachers, tutors, and online resources can clarify difficult topics.

Preparing for NECO Practicals

Science and technical subjects include practical exams, which are vital for a good score. Preparation tips include:

  • Understand experiment procedures thoroughly.

  • Review lab manuals and practical guides.

  • Practice past practical questions.

  • Prepare materials and apparatus in advance.

  • Follow safety guidelines during experiments.

Downloading the 2026 NECO Timetable

Candidates can download the official 2026 NECO SSCE timetable in PDF format from the official NECO website www.neco.gov.ng. Having a digital copy allows easy access on smartphones and laptops for regular review.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: When will NECO 2026 SSCE start?
A: The exams start on June 17th, 2026 and end on July 25th, 2026.

Q2: Can I sit for NECO privately?
A: Yes, NECO allows private candidates to register and write exams at accredited centers.

Q3: How do I know my exam center?
A: The exam center will be indicated on your NECO examination slip. Candidates should collect slips from their schools or registration centers.

Q4: Are practical exams included in the timetable?
A: Practical exams for science and technical subjects are scheduled separately by schools.

Q5: How can I prepare for NECO effectively?
A: Focus on past questions, revise core subjects, practice practicals, and maintain consistent study routines.

Conclusion

The 2026 NECO SSCE timetable is an essential tool for all candidates. Proper planning, consistent study, and strategic revision can significantly improve your performance and reduce exam stress. Ensure that you have the official timetable, organize your study plan, and stay healthy to succeed.

Remember: Success in NECO SSCE is not just about intelligence; it’s about preparation, discipline, and perseverance.

Download the Timetable 

You can find the NECO Timetable in PDF form at the end of this article.

NECO SSCE Past Timetable 2024-2025