I believe you must have heard about the NYSC exemption certificate and you wonder whether it applies to you or not.
This is even more confusing if you’re above 30 years.
The National Youth Service Corps promotes national unity and development by engaging Nigerian graduates under 30 years old in a one-year service to the nation. Participants who successfully complete the program receive NYSC Discharge Certificate which is an official proof service completion.
However, not all graduates are eligible to participate in the program. For the ineligible ones, NYSC either issue the Exemption Certificate or the Exclusion Letter, depending on the circumstance.
In this guide, I’ll focus on the NYSC Exemption Certificate, its purpose, and how to obtain it. You can also read my article on the NYSC Exclusion Letter to better understand the differences.
Before I continue, it is important to understand that the three types of NYSC certificates (Discharge, Exemption, and Exclusion) serve the same purpose in Nigeria.
Employers and government agencies treat them equally, meaning they do not view exempted graduates as inferior to those who served.
Having said that, let’s dive right in!
What is NYSC Exemption Certificate?
The NYSC Exemption Certificate is issued to graduates who are not allowed to participate in the one-year NYSC scheme because of certain reasons. Employers and government agencies in Nigeria recognize this certificate as proof of exemption from the program.
The NYSC Exemption Letter, as it is sometimes called, is the arrangement of NYSC to ensure that even though some categories of graduates are exempted from service, they are not victimized as a result of that.
It is worth knowing that both local and foreign graduates can receive service exemptions if they meet the required conditions as explained below.
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Who is Eligible for NYSC Exemption?
Section 2, Subsection (2) of the NYSC Act Cap N84 LFN 2004 exempts any graduate from service who fulfills at least one of the conditions below as of the date of graduation.
- Over the age of thirty (30) at graduation.
- Has served in the Armed Forces of the Federation or the Nigeria Police Force for a period of more than nine months.
- Member of staff of any of the following:
- The Nigerian Security Organization.
- The State Security Service
- The National Intelligence Agency
- The Defence Intelligence Service
4. Has received any National Honour.
For clarity, the age criteria above is verified by comparing the date of birth on JAMB against the date of graduation provided by corps producing institutions.
How to Apply for NYSC Exemption Certificate
The NYSC mobilization process allows you to obtain the Exemption Certificate. However, it is important to note that you don’t “apply” for NYSC Exemption. Eligible persons automatically receive exemption after NYSC online registration.
What this means is that you don’t get to choose whether or not you want to be exempted from service.
Immediately after completing online registration, the NYSC system automatically updates this based on the information provided on the senate list and what you supplied during online registration.
If you schooled in Nigeria, check out this guide to know the registration requirements. For those that school outside of the country, the foreign graduates registration requirements are for you.
In a nutshell, those exempted from service basically do the same activities as every other PCM. The only difference is that their NYSC journey ends after online registration.
I believe I have been able to educate you on what the NYSC Exemption is and what qualifies one for it. Here are some frequently asked questions that might be helpful for you.
What is the difference between NYSC Discharge and Exemption certificate?
Those who participate in the NYSC service for a period of 12 months receive the NYSC Discharge Certificate. On the other hand, graduates excused from service on certain grounds, as explained above, receive the exemption certificate.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Exemption Certificate?
The processing time for the NYSC Exemption Certificate depends on the NYSC schedule. Typically, you should receive it within 3 months after successfully registering online for NYSC. You’ll be notified when your certificate is ready for collection at the Students’ Affairs Unit of your School.
Can I get a job with a NYSC Exemption Letter?
Yes, you can! Employers of labor within the country are legally required to recognize and accept the NYSC exemption certificate, which serves the same purpose as the Discharge Certificate.
Is there something I didn’t cover in this article? Feel free to drop your comments in the box below.