If you have plans to sit for the 2025 NECO GCE examination, one of the most important details you must keep in mind is the registration closing date. Every year, many candidates miss the exam simply because they delay registration until the final days, only to realize the portal has closed. To avoid that costly mistake, it’s essential to know the official timeline and take action early.
In this article, we’ll break down the registration deadlines, late entry options, and why you should register before the portal shuts down.
Official Registration Deadline for 2025 NECO GCE
The registration for the 2025 NECO GCE opened on July 7, 2025, and will officially close on November 18, 2025, at midnight. Once the portal closes, no further entries will be accepted under normal conditions.
This means candidates have a little over four months to complete their registration, purchase their token, and finalize biometric data capture at an accredited NECO center.
Late Registration Period
For candidates who miss the standard deadline, NECO has made provision for late registration. This window runs from November 19, 2025, to November 25, 2025. However, it comes with an extra cost. In addition to the standard ₦30,000 registration fee, latecomers will pay an additional ₦5,000.
It is worth stressing that this grace period is final. Once late registration closes on November 25, no further registrations will be allowed, except for walk-in candidates, which is a different category entirely.
What About Walk-in Registration?
Walk-in registration is NECO’s last-chance option for candidates who completely miss both the normal and late registration periods. This option allows candidates to register less than three hours before the paper they intend to sit for, but at a significantly higher fee of ₦43,000.
This method is risky and stressful, as it doesn’t allow you time to prepare adequately for multiple subjects. It is only advisable for emergencies, not as a planned approach.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait Until the Deadline
Many candidates make the mistake of waiting until the last week to register. While the portal may still be open, several challenges can arise:
- Network congestion or technical issues on the registration portal.
- Mistakes in entering personal details when rushed.
- Limited slots at preferred examination centers.
- Delays in completing biometric verification.
Registering early helps you secure your space, avoid errors, and gives you peace of mind as the exam period approaches.
Key Exam Dates to Keep in Mind
- Registration opens: July 7, 2025
- Registration closes: November 18, 2025 (midnight)
- Late registration: November 19 – November 25, 2025
- Exam period: November 26 – December 13, 2025
It’s also important to remember that the 2025 NECO GCE will be conducted entirely as a Computer-Based Test (CBT). Candidates should practice with CBT platforms ahead of time to avoid surprises.
For official updates, always rely on the NECO portal:
Final Thoughts
The 2025 NECO GCE registration closing date is November 18, 2025. If you intend to write the exam, now is the time to act. Don’t leave your future to chance by waiting for the last minute. Completing your registration early ensures that you avoid penalties, save money, and get enough preparation time for the CBT examination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is the closing date for 2025 NECO GCE registration?
The official closing date is November 18, 2025, at midnight.
2. Is there a late registration option for NECO GCE 2025?
Yes. Late registration is available from November 19 to November 25, 2025, but candidates will pay an extra ₦5,000.
3. How much is the registration fee for NECO GCE 2025?
The standard fee is ₦30,000. Late registration costs ₦35,000, while walk-in registration costs ₦43,000.
4. What is walk-in registration?
Walk-in registration allows candidates to register less than three hours before their exam. It is very expensive and not advisable unless in emergencies.
5. When will the 2025 NECO GCE exams take place?
The exams will run from November 26, 2025, to December 13, 2025, and will be conducted entirely as CBT.
6. Can I make corrections after registration?
Yes, candidates are allowed one-time corrections before the exam begins, but only for one major item (either name or passport photo).