The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme is a mandatory one-year service for graduates of Nigerian tertiary institutions.
However, some situations exempt certain graduates from participating. This is where the NYSC Exemption Letter comes in, acting as an equivalent to the NYSC discharge certificate earned after service.
Who Can Apply for Exemption Letter?
The NYSC Exemption Letter, also known as the Certificate of Exclusion, is issued to three main categories of individuals:
- Graduates above 30 years old: Full-time students who graduate after their 30th birthday are automatically exempt.
- Part-time graduates: Any graduate with a part-time degree, regardless of age.
- Exempted individuals: These include:
- Those who served in the Nigerian Armed Forces for at least 9 months.
- Recipients of national awards like the Order of the Niger.
Requirements to Apply for NYSC Exemption Letter
Before you apply, ensure you meet the following criteria:
- You possess the relevant academic qualifications (e.g., Bachelor’s degree, HND).
- Your institution is approved or accredited by NUC, NTBE, or NCCE.
- You fall under one of the exemption categories mentioned above.
How to Apply for NYSC Exemption Letter
- Visit your nearest NYSC State Secretariat. Inform the attendant of your intention to apply for the exemption letter.
- Fill the application form and attach the required documents:
- Completed application form
- Academic qualifications certificates (original and photocopies)
- Approved results
- Means of identification (e.g., passport, driver’s license)
- Supporting documents (as instructed)
- Make the required payment. The fee structure can be obtained from the NYSC officials.
- Wait for verification and approval. This process usually takes several weeks.
- Collect your Exemption Letter from your tertiary institution.
How to Print for NYSC Exemption Letter Online
- Visit the NYSC registration portal: https://portal.nysc.org.ng/nysc1/resumepayment.aspx
- Register with a valid email address. New users need to click “Registration for Mobilization.”
- Verify your account using the activation link sent to your email.
- Fill in your details and click submit.
- Capture your biometrics. This must be done in person, not by proxy.
- Upload a clear passport photograph with a white background.
- Preview your registration form and ensure all details are correct.
- Agree to the terms and conditions.
- Upload your scanned signature or use a digital signature scanner.
- Click submit and keep your login details for future use.
- Make the required payment using your preferred method. The fee is usually under N3,000.
- Check your NYSC dashboard for your Exemption Letter. If not available immediately, try again after a few days.
