In a major educational policy shift, the Federal Government of Nigeria (FG) has officially scrapped Mathematics as a compulsory subject for students seeking admission into Arts and Humanities programmes across tertiary institutions in the country.
This decision, announced through the Federal Ministry of Education, marks a historic moment in Nigeria’s education system — one aimed at making higher education more inclusive and tailored to students’ academic strengths.
Why the Change Was Made
For decades, Mathematics and English Language have been mandatory subjects for gaining admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, regardless of a student’s intended course of study.
However, the government has now clarified that Mathematics will no longer be compulsory for students applying to Arts, Humanities, and certain Management courses, though English Language remains mandatory across all fields.
According to the Ministry, the review is part of a broader reform to “remove unnecessary academic barriers” that have long hindered talented students in non-science disciplines from accessing higher education opportunities.
Scope of the New Policy
The new directive affects all levels of tertiary institutions — from universities to polytechnics and colleges of education — and redefines entry requirements as follows:
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For Universities:
Mathematics is no longer required for Arts and Humanities courses such as English, History, Mass Communication, Theatre Arts, and Linguistics. It remains compulsory for Science, Technology, and Engineering programmes. -
For Polytechnics (ND Level):
English Language becomes the only compulsory subject for Arts and Management courses, while Mathematics remains required for Science and Technical programmes. -
For Higher National Diploma (HND):
Both English and Mathematics will still be required across all fields of study. -
For Colleges of Education:
Students in the Arts and Social Sciences categories will no longer need Mathematics for admission, but those in Science and Technical Education must still present credit passes in the subject.
Stakeholders React
Education analysts and student groups have described the policy as a bold and progressive move, applauding the government for recognizing the diverse strengths of students.
Mr. Adamu Adamu, a senior education policy advocate, noted that the decision would broaden access to tertiary education and reduce the frustration many Arts students face due to Mathematics requirements.
However, some educators have expressed caution, urging institutions to maintain academic standards and ensure that the absence of Mathematics does not lead to a decline in overall student quality or reasoning ability.
What This Means for Admission Seekers
The new policy is expected to take effect in the 2025 admission cycle, meaning students sitting for the next UTME (JAMB) can now choose Arts and Humanities programmes without needing Mathematics as a prerequisite subject.
Prospective students are encouraged to carefully review their course requirements on official school portals and the updated JAMB Brochure, as institutions will gradually adjust their entry criteria in line with the new directive.
This decision by the Federal Government is seen as a game-changer for Nigeria’s education sector. By removing Mathematics as a compulsory requirement for Arts and Humanities programmes, the government has taken a significant step toward promoting inclusivity, creativity, and equal access to higher learning opportunities.
As Nigeria continues to reform its education system, many hope this marks the beginning of more flexible, fair, and student-centered academic policies.
