Educational System in Nigeria

Understanding the educational system of a new country can be a daunting task for expats. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the educational system in Nigeria, a country with a diverse and vibrant educational landscape. The Nigerian educational system is structured in a 6-3-3-4 format, which includes six years of primary education, three years of junior secondary education, three years of senior secondary education, and four years of tertiary education. This guide will delve into the specifics of each stage, the enrollment process for newcomers, language requirements, public and private schooling options, and the possibilities of homeschooling and online schooling.

What are the main stages of education in Nigeria?

The main stages of education in Nigeria are primary education, junior secondary education, senior secondary education, and tertiary education. Primary education is the first stage and is mandatory for all children. Junior secondary education follows, which is a mix of vocational and academic curriculum. Senior secondary education is more specialized, with students choosing either a science, arts, or commercial track. Tertiary education includes universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

Primary Education

Primary education in Nigeria is for children aged 6 to 11. It focuses on basic literacy, numeracy, and life skills. The curriculum includes subjects like English, Mathematics, Basic Science, Social Studies, and Nigerian languages. Primary education is compulsory and free in public schools.

Junior Secondary Education

Junior secondary education is for students aged 12 to 14. It offers a broad-based curriculum with a mix of academic and pre-vocational subjects. At the end of this stage, students take the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

Senior Secondary Education

Senior secondary education is for students aged 15 to 17. It is more specialized, with students choosing either a science, arts, or commercial track. At the end of this stage, students take the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

Tertiary Education

Tertiary education in Nigeria includes universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. Admission is based on the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) score and post-UTME screening.

How does a newcomer from a different country enroll their kids in school?

Newcomers can enroll their children in Nigerian schools by first choosing a suitable school. They then need to obtain an application form, complete it, and submit it along with the required documents, which typically include a birth certificate, passport photos, and previous school records. Some schools may also require an entrance examination or interview.

My children are still learning English, can they enroll in a public school?

Yes, children who are still learning English can enroll in public schools in Nigeria. English is the official language of instruction in Nigerian schools, but there are also provisions for teaching in local languages. Many schools also offer English as a Second Language (ESL) programs to help non-native speakers.

Are there public bilingual schools?

While there are no public bilingual schools in Nigeria, some private international schools offer bilingual education. These schools typically have a diverse student body and offer instruction in English along with another language, often French or German.

What types of private schools are common in Nigeria?

Private schools in Nigeria are diverse, ranging from Montessori and British international schools to religious schools such as Christian and Islamic schools. There are also American international schools and French schools. These schools often offer a more diverse curriculum and smaller class sizes than public schools.

Do expats typically send their children to public or private school?

Expats in Nigeria typically send their children to private schools, particularly international schools. These schools offer a familiar curriculum, a diverse student body, and often have better resources and facilities than public schools.

How expensive are Private schools in Nigeria?

Private school fees in Nigeria vary widely depending on the school. International schools are generally the most expensive, with fees ranging from $5,000 to $30,000 per year. Other private schools may charge between $1,000 and $5,000 per year.

Are you allowed to homeschool while living in Nigeria?

While homeschooling is not common in Nigeria, it is not explicitly prohibited by law. However, it's important to note that the Nigerian educational system emphasizes formal schooling, and homeschooling may not be recognized by all institutions or employers.

May kids attend online school instead of a local school while living in Nigeria?

Yes, children can attend online schools while living in Nigeria. However, it's important to ensure that the online school is accredited and that the curriculum meets the educational standards of your home country or the country where your child intends to pursue further education.