Federal Teachers Scheme (FTS) Recruitment 2025/2026 Application Portal

Federal Teachers Scheme (FTS) Recruitment 2025/2026 Application Portal

Introduction

Every year, thousands of Nigerian graduates ask themselves the same question: “How do I secure a stable job in today’s competitive labour market?” The truth is that with rising unemployment and limited opportunities in both private and public sectors, many young people are left stranded after graduation.

One consistent opportunity that keeps coming up, however, is the Federal Teachers Scheme (FTS) recruitment. Managed by the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), this programme has served as both a lifeline for unemployed graduates and a vital support system for Nigeria’s basic education sector.

The Federal Teachers Scheme Recruitment 2025/2026 is now a hot topic because applications are open, and many graduates are eager to apply. If you’re a recent graduate, teacher-trainee, or someone seeking government-backed work experience, this scheme could be your golden opportunity.

This long-form guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the programme the requirements, the application process, benefits, salary expectations, possible pitfalls, real experiences from past participants, and tips to maximize your chances of being selected.

Table of Contents

1. What is the Federal Teachers Scheme (FTS)?

2. Objectives and Importance of the Scheme

3. Overview of 2025/2026 Recruitment Cycle

4. Eligibility Criteria and Requirements

5. Subjects and Disciplines in Demand

6. Step-by-Step Application Process

7. Screening, CBT, and Interview Process

8. Salary, Allowances, and Incentives

9. Benefits of Joining the Scheme

10. Challenges and Pitfalls to Watch Out For

11. Tips to Increase Your Chances of Selection

12. What Happens After Selection and Deployment

13. Real-Life Experiences and Testimonials

14. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

15. Conclusion

Federal Teachers Scheme (FTS) Recruitment 2025/2026 Application Portal

What is the Federal Teachers Scheme (FTS)?

The Federal Teachers Scheme (FTS) is an intervention programme established by the Federal Government of Nigeria through UBEC to address the shortage of qualified teachers in public primary and junior secondary schools.

It was first launched to provide temporary teaching support by recruiting unemployed but qualified graduates into underserved communities. The idea is simple: while job seekers get valuable teaching experience, children in rural or disadvantaged areas gain access to quality education.

The programme typically runs for two years, after which teachers may move on to other opportunities, sometimes securing permanent roles with State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs) or other government agencies.

Objectives and Importance of the Scheme

The FTS is more than just a job opportunity. It has broader social and educational goals, such as:

1. Improving access to quality education: Especially in rural communities where teacher shortages are severe.

2. Reducing graduate unemployment: By offering teaching jobs to thousands of young Nigerians every cycle.

3. Promoting national integration: Graduates are often posted to states or communities different from their origin.

4. Building teaching capacity: Participants gain professional training, sometimes including TRCN (Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria) certification.

5. Contributing to SDGs: The scheme aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goal of inclusive and equitable quality education.

Overview of 2025/2026 Recruitment Cycle

For the 2025/2026 cycle, UBEC has officially confirmed that the recruitment portal is open. Here are the highlights you need to know:

1. Application Opening Date: 10th September 2025

2. Closing Date: 24th September 2025

3. Mode of Application: Online via the official FTS portal (managed by UBEC).

4. Screening Date: Saturday, 10th October 2025 (Computer Based Test across state capitals).

5. Duration of Engagement: Two years.

6. Allowance: ₦77,000 monthly for successful candidates.

This cycle is highly competitive, as thousands of applicants are expected nationwide.

Eligibility Criteria and Requirements

Before rushing to apply, you need to confirm if you meet the criteria. Below are the general requirements for the 2025/2026 FTS recruitment:

1. Nationality: You must be a Nigerian citizen.

2. Educational Qualification:

   1. Minimum of NCE (National Certificate in Education).

   2. Holders of B.Ed, B.A.Ed, B.Sc.Ed, or PGDE are also eligible.

3. NYSC Status: For degree holders, completion of the NYSC programme or possession of an exemption/discharge certificate is mandatory.

4. Age Limit: Applicants must be 35 years or younger.

5. Employment Status: You must be unemployed at the time of application and not currently engaged with any other government programme like N-Power.

6. Willingness to Relocate: You should be ready to serve in rural or underserved areas.

Additional but optional advantages include:

1. TRCN registration.

2. Fluency in both English and local languages of your deployment area.

Federal Teachers Scheme (FTS) Recruitment 2025/2026 Application Portal

Subjects and Disciplines in Demand

UBEC is not recruiting teachers for every possible subject. The priority areas include:

1. English Language and Literature

2. Mathematics

3. Integrated Science

4. Physics, Chemistry, and Biology

5. Agricultural Science

6. Home Economics

7. Technical and Technology Education

8. Special Needs Education (in some cases)

Applicants with strong backgrounds in these subjects have a higher chance of being shortlisted.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for the FTS is straightforward but must be done carefully:

Step 1: Access the Official Portal
Visit the UBEC Federal Teachers Scheme recruitment portal when applications open. Avoid fake websites.

Step 2: Create an Account
Sign up using a valid email address and phone number. This is where UBEC will send updates.

Step 3: Fill the Online Form
Provide personal information, academic qualifications, and NYSC details. Ensure all data is accurate.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents
You’ll need to upload scanned copies of:

1. Academic certificates (NCE, B.Ed, etc.)

2. NYSC certificate or exemption (if applicable)

3. Birth certificate or age declaration

4. Valid means of identification (e.g. National ID, Voter’s Card, Passport)

5. Passport photograph

Step 5: Submit and Print Slip
After submitting, print the application slip for reference.

Step 6: Wait for Shortlisting
UBEC will release a list of shortlisted candidates for the CBT.

Step 7: Prepare for CBT
If shortlisted, attend the Computer Based Test at the designated centre in your state capital.

Step 8: Final Selection and Deployment
Those who pass will undergo document verification before being deployed to schools.

Screening, CBT, and Interview Process

The selection process involves:

1. Computer Based Test (CBT): Covers teaching aptitude, subject knowledge, English comprehension, and reasoning.

2. Document Verification: Original copies of your credentials will be checked.

3. Possible Interview: In some states, an additional interview may follow the CBT.

The CBT is a critical stage, so applicants should prepare thoroughly.

Salary, Allowances, and Incentives

One of the first questions applicants ask is: “How much does FTS pay?”

1. Monthly Allowance: ₦77,000 (as of the 2025/2026 cycle).

2. Payment Structure: Paid directly by UBEC, though delays have been reported in previous cycles.

3. Other Benefits:

   1. Work experience in teaching.

   2. Potential TRCN certification.

   3. Opportunity to be absorbed into state teaching service after completion.

While ₦30,000 is not a huge sum, it provides stability for unemployed graduates and helps build a professional record.

Federal Teachers Scheme (FTS) Recruitment 2025/2026 Application Portal

Benefits of Joining the Scheme

The FTS is not just about the allowance. Benefits include:

1. Professional Development: Gain teaching experience and develop classroom management skills.

2. Career Opportunities: Some participants are absorbed into SUBEB or other state education boards.

3. Networking: Build connections with other educators and government officials.

4. National Service: Contribute to Nigeria’s development by educating future generations.

5. CV Enhancement: The experience strengthens your resume, especially for education sector jobs.

Challenges and Pitfalls to Watch Out For

Like any government programme, FTS comes with challenges. Be prepared for:

1. Scams and Fraudsters: Many fake websites and agents may ask for money. The application is free.

2. Deployment to Remote Areas: Expect postings in rural or underserved communities.

3. Low Allowance: ₦77,000 may not be enough in urban areas, but it is manageable in rural zones.

4. Delayed Payments: Some participants in previous cycles reported late disbursements.

5. Limited Resources: Teaching materials in some schools may be inadequate.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Selection

1. Apply early, not on the last day.

2. Double-check your documents before uploading.

3. Choose priority subjects like Mathematics, English, or Sciences.

4. Study for the CBT using past aptitude test questions.

5. If possible, register with TRCN to boost your profile.

6. Keep your phone number and email active for updates.

7. Show willingness to serve in rural communities.

What Happens After Selection and Deployment

If you’re among the lucky ones selected:

1. You’ll be given an orientation on your roles and expectations.

2. Deployment will be to a public primary or junior secondary school, often in rural or underserved communities.

3. Monitoring officers from UBEC and SUBEB will supervise your performance.

4. The scheme lasts two years, after which you may either transition into permanent teaching jobs or explore other opportunities.

Federal Teachers Scheme (FTS) Recruitment 2025/2026 Application Portal

Real-Life Experiences and Testimonials

From past participants:

1. Many describe the scheme as a career foundation, giving them first teaching experience.

2. Some faced delayed allowances, but still valued the programme for exposure.

3. A few were retained in state teaching services after their two-year tenure.

4. The rural postings were challenging, but participants said it built resilience and adaptability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is the application free?
Yes. UBEC does not charge any fee.

Q2: Can I apply with HND?
The minimum requirement is NCE or a degree in education. HND holders may qualify if combined with a PGDE.

Q3: Is TRCN compulsory?
Not compulsory, but strongly recommended.

Q4: Can I choose my posting location?
No. Deployment is at the discretion of UBEC and SUBEB.

Q5: How long does the programme last?
Two years.

Conclusion

The Federal Teachers Scheme Recruitment 2025/2026 is a golden chance for Nigerian graduates to secure employment, gain valuable experience, and contribute to national development. While the allowance is modest, the exposure, career opportunities, and long-term benefits make it worthwhile.

If you’re a qualified graduate, don’t miss this opportunity. Prepare your documents, study for the CBT, and submit your application before the deadline. This might just be the stepping stone you need for a brighter future.