The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is a program established by the Nigerian government in 1973 to promote national unity and development.
It is a one-year mandatory service for graduates of tertiary institutions (both in Nigeria and abroad) who are 30 years old or younger at the time of graduation.
A common question among graduates with lower degree classifications is:
“Can third class go for NYSC in Nigeria?”
Let’s break it down.
Degree Classifications in Tertiary Institutions
In Nigeria’s tertiary institutions, student performance is measured using the Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) system. This determines the degree classification awarded upon graduation.
| Classification | CGPA Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| First Class | 4.50 – 5.00 | Highest honor, awarded to outstanding students |
| Second Class Upper (2:1) | 3.50 – 4.49 | Very good performance |
| Second Class Lower (2:2) | 2.40 – 3.49 | Average performance |
| Third Class | 1.50 – 2.39 | Lowest official classification for graduates |
| Pass (Optional) | 1.00 – 1.49 | Previously awarded in some schools but now being phased out |
NOTE: While most universities use the 5.0 CGPA system, some universities still operate with the 4.0 CGPA system.
And for the 4.0 system, it looks like this:
| Classification | CGPA Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| First Class | 3.50 – 4.00 | Highest honor |
| Second Class Upper (2:1) | 3.00 – 3.49 | Very good performance |
| Second Class Lower (2:2) | 2.00 – 2.99 | Average performance |
| Third Class | 1.00 – 1.99 | Lowest classification |
What is Third Class Degree?
A third-class degree is the lowest level of academic achievement awarded to graduates in Nigerian universities.
- It is usually given to students with a CGPA between 1.50 and 2.39.
- Many people mistakenly believe that a third-class degree equals failure. However, this is not true.
- A graduate with a third-class degree still meets the minimum academic requirement to graduate from a university.
Can Third-Class Graduates Go for NYSC?
Yes. Third-class graduates are eligible for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Nigeria.
NYSC mobilizes all graduates who meet the program’s eligibility criteria, provided they are not older than 30 years at the time of graduation and their school includes them in the approved mobilization list.
Can Third-Class Graduates Get a Good PPA During NYSC?
Yes. A Place of Primary Assignment (PPA) is where corps members serve after orientation camp.
- Allocation is based on availability of institutions, government offices, schools, or organizations within the state of deployment.
- While some private firms and specialized organizations may prefer higher-class graduates, many corps members (regardless of CGPA) are posted to schools, ministries, NGOs, and companies.
This means that with a third-class degree, you can still secure a good PPA, especially if you have relevant skills (ICT, teaching, entrepreneurship, etc.).
Does NYSC Prioritize CGPA During Mobilization?
No. NYSC does not prioritize degree classifications during mobilization.
The mobilization process depends on:
- The approved lists submitted by schools.
- The graduate’s age at the time of graduation.
- Whether the graduate studied in Nigeria or abroad.
Your CGPA (whether First Class, Second Class, or Third Class) does not determine whether you will be mobilized.
Conclusion
Having a third-class degree does not stop you from participating in the NYSC program.
- NYSC focuses on eligibility (age, institution, and graduation status), not CGPA.
- Third-class graduates can serve, get good postings, and even excel during service year.
- What matters most is how you maximize your opportunities during NYSC, not your degree classification.
So, if you have a third-class degree, be assured you can still serve your country through NYSC.