NECO announces application from qualified Centre Operators For Computer Based Examination

The National Examinations Council (NECO) has concluded arrangements to migrate from Paper Test (PPT) to Computer Based Examination, starting from the 2025 November/December Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE External).

Interested Computer-Based Centre Operators are invited to apply for Registration with the Council based on the following criteria:

COMPUTER-BASED EXAMINATION (CBE) CENTRE REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDELINES

System Requirements:

1. Minimum of 150 functional Computer Systems/Laptops with 10% (i.e., 15) backups with the following minimum specifications:  

- 64-Bit Processor: Dual Core (Celeron/Pentium), RAM: 4GB, Hard Disk: 250-500 Internal, OS: Windows 10, 11  

- Minimum 19.5 inches Flat Panel Monitor, Wired Keyboard & Mouse  

- Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge (Latest)

2. Computers must be connected to a robust and dedicated server with capacity to carry 150 systems simultaneously without system failure.

3. The server shall be connected to a redundant (Backup) Server and must be located in a server room.

The centre shall be adequately networked to support seamless communication between the server and the workstations.

5. All computers must be connected to a 220V power supply with backup (UPS and Generator).

Hall Requirements

6. Minimum of 150 seat capacity with adequate ventilation and lighting.

7. Adequate CCTV network with IP Cameras for the Computer-Based Examination halls and surroundings.

8. Minimum of 8 CCTV Cameras to cover the entire CBE Centre premises.

9. The CCTV shall be functional and active 24/7 with minimum of 60 days recording capacity.

10. CCTV output must be connected to the ATRTL.

11. All Computer-Based Examination centres shall be adequately fenced to clearly demarcate them from surrounding properties.

12. Centres shall be made up of two buildings—one for exams, the other for reception/waiting area.

13. A holding room for candidates shall be provided outside the examination hall.

14. Adequate functional air conditioners must be installed in the server room and the examination hall.

15. Centre must be located in a serene environment, not in shared premises such as cinema hall, shopping mall, market, etc.

FACILITIES AND PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS

17. Availability of 40KVA power supply (200KVA generating set, minimum 48 hours backup capacity) to power all systems and server.

18. Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) with a minimum of 30 minutes backup to allow for smooth switch-over to generator in case of power failure.

19. The CBE Centre shall have a minimum of four (4) technical personnel with sound knowledge in computer network engineering.

20. The centre shall also have two (2) additional ICT personnel who shall assist in troubleshooting technical issues.

21. All personnel shall be on ground and available during the examination period.

22. A standby Generator Engineer should be available throughout the examination period.

23. A permanent Centre Manager who shall liaise with NECO officials.

Note: Every proposed CBE centre will download requirements and guidelines from the Council’s website: www.neco.gov.ng and upload completed application form with relevant documents to the registration portal.

Important: Centres that do not meet the above-stated minimum requirements shall not be considered.

After inspection and verification process, we will go ahead with accreditation of successful centres and communicate same to the operators.

Signed:

Professor Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi

Registrar/Chief Executive