The secondary education system is in Nigeria is divided into two stages:

Junior Secondary School (JSS) – 3 Years

• Designed for students aged 11 to 14.
• Provides basic and general education in subjects such as English, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Introductory Science.
• At the end of JSS3, students take the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).
• Continuous assessment is used to evaluate student performance.
• Students are categorized into academic or vocational paths based on performance.

Senior Secondary School (SSS) – 3 Years

• Designed for students aged 15 to 17.
• Students specialize in science, arts, or commercial subjects.
• At the end of SSS3, students sit for the Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE), which is a requirement for university admission.
• Two national examination bodies conduct this exam:
  • West African Examination Council (WAEC).
  • National Examination Council (NECO).

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Curriculum and Subjects in Secondary Education

The curriculum of Nigerian secondary schools is divided into core and elective subjects, ensuring students receive broad and balanced education.

Core Subjects (Compulsory for All Students)

• English Language
• Mathematics
• Civic Education
• One major Nigerian language (Hausa, Yoruba, or Igbo)
• Biology
• Computer Studies

Specialized Subjects (Based on Field of Study)

1. Science Students:
   • Chemistry
   • Physics
   • Agricultural Science
   • Further Mathematics
2. Arts Students:
   • Literature in English
   • Government
   • History
   • Christian Religious Studies (CRS) or Islamic Religious Studies (IRS)
3. Commercial Students:
   • Economics
   • Commerce
   • Accounting
   • Business Studies
4. Technical/Vocational Subjects:
   • Home Economics
   • Technical Drawing
   • Automobile Engineering
   • Entrepreneurship

This structure ensures that students specialize in their chosen field while gaining general knowledge in other subjects.