Education Policy
Published: February 24, 2026
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By Emmanuel Iweh
NUC Grants Approval to 29 Universities for Online Degree Programs to Boost 2026 Intake
"The National Universities Commission (NUC) has approved 29 institutions, including UI and UNILAG, to offer full online BSc degrees starting in the 2026 academic year."
In a landmark decision aimed at solving the perennial problem of limited carrying capacity in Nigerian universities, the National Universities Commission (NUC) has officially authorized 29 universities to run online degree programs starting in 2026. Featured on the list are prestigious institutions such as the University of Ibadan (UI), University of Lagos (UNILAG), and Ahmadu Bello University (ABU). Our investigation into this policy shift reveals that the NUC is moving away from the rigid 'classroom-space' metric that previously limited the number of students a university could admit. By allowing these institutions to offer accredited Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees via distance learning, the total admission capacity of the Nigerian university system is expected to increase by over 200,000 slots in the 2026 cycle alone. For candidates, this is a game-changer for admission chances. Traditionally, thousands of qualified students are denied entry simply because their chosen university lacks physical seats. Under the new online degree framework, candidates who meet the baseline cut-off marks but fall slightly below the highly competitive 'merit' cut-off for physical residency can now be offered admission into the same degree programs via the online track. Analysis indicates that this will lead to a more flexible admission threshold, effectively lowering the barrier to entry for top-tier schools. However, candidates must be aware that while the degree certificate is identical to those of on-campus students, the mode of delivery requires robust internet access and self-discipline. This development is expected to reduce the pressure on 'Change of Course' requests, as more students can now stay within their preferred disciplines through the online alternative. As the February registration window closes, JAMB and the NUC are collaborating to ensure that the 2026 CAPS portal includes clear options for candidates to indicate their preference for either physical or online learning modes, ensuring a seamless transition into this new era of digital-first higher education in Nigeria.
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