Are you trying to understand the difference between SUBEB and TESCOM salary for teachers in Nigeria? You're not alone. Many teachers and job seekers are confused about whether they should apply to SUBEB or TESCOM, and which pays better.
In this detailed 2025 guide, we’ll break down the key differences in salary, allowances, career growth, job roles, and posting structure for both SUBEB (State Universal Basic Education Board) and TESCOM (Teaching Service Commission). Whether you're a graduate teacher looking for a government job or just planning your career path, this article gives you all the answers.
What Is the Difference Between SUBEB and TESCOM?
To understand the difference between SUBEB and TESCOM salary for teachers, you must first understand what each institution represents:
SUBEB:
Focus: Primary school education (Basic 1–6)
Recruitment: Managed at the state level for basic education
Salary Source: State government + UBEC (Federal)
Posting: Mainly rural or semi-urban primary schools
TESCOM:
Focus: Secondary school education (JSS1–SS3)
Recruitment: Also managed by the state but strictly for secondary schools
Salary Source: State government
Posting: Urban and semi-urban secondary schools
Difference Between SUBEB and TESCOM Salary for Teachers (2025 Comparison)
Let’s break down the salary structure using actual monthly earning estimates as of 2025.
| Grade Level | TESCOM Salary Range | SUBEB Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Level 8 | ₦78,000 – ₦105,000 | ₦65,000 – ₦85,000 |
| Level 9 | ₦85,000 – ₦115,000 | ₦70,000 – ₦90,000 |
| Level 10 | ₦95,000 – ₦120,000 | ₦75,000 – ₦95,000 |
| Level 12+ | ₦100,000 – ₦140,000 | ₦80,000 – ₦100,000 |
Observation: TESCOM pays slightly higher than SUBEB in most Nigerian states, especially for graduate teachers teaching in secondary schools.
Why TESCOM Salary Is Higher Than SUBEB Salary
Secondary School Teachers Have Broader Scope
TESCOM teachers handle more advanced subjects in JSS and SS classes, which often require deeper specialization and higher academic qualifications.State Funding Difference
TESCOM is fully funded by the state government and not dependent on Federal UBEC interventions, giving it more flexibility in salary budgeting.Workload and Subject Complexity
Teachers in TESCOM teach subjects like Physics, Economics, and Literature at higher levels. This attracts higher pay due to demand for subject-matter experts.
SUBEB Salary Structure: What You Should Know
SUBEB teachers are mostly posted to public primary schools. Their salaries are generally lower than TESCOM, but the job is still stable.
SUBEB Teacher Salary (2025):
Primary School Level 8 Teachers: ₦65,000 – ₦85,000 monthly
Headmasters: ₦95,000 – ₦110,000
Entry Level (NCE Holders): ₦45,000 – ₦60,000
Other Details:
SUBEB may offer rural posting incentives depending on the state.
Teachers are promoted more slowly than TESCOM teachers in some states.
Workload is usually lighter—fewer subjects, fewer exams.
TESCOM Salary Structure: Full Breakdown (2025)
TESCOM teachers work in public junior and senior secondary schools. They often earn more than their SUBEB counterparts due to the academic level they handle.
TESCOM Teacher Salary (2025):
Graduate Teacher Level 8: ₦78,000 – ₦105,000
Senior Secondary Teacher Level 10–12: ₦100,000 – ₦140,000
Principal Level: ₦150,000+ monthly
Other Benefits:
Teachers handling WAEC/NECO classes are often paid more.
Some states (e.g., Lagos, Ogun, Rivers) offer bonuses for science and math teachers.
TESCOM teachers get promoted more regularly in some states due to clear education policies.
Allowances: TESCOM vs SUBEB
Let’s look at the difference between SUBEB and TESCOM salary for teachers in terms of allowances:
| Allowance Type | TESCOM Teachers | SUBEB Teachers |
|---|---|---|
| Transport Allowance | Yes (varies by state) | Mostly no |
| Rural Posting Bonus | In few states | Yes, more common |
| Leave Allowance | Yes (paid yearly) | Yes |
| Housing Allowance | Common in urban postings | Not common |
| Exam Supervision Stipends | Yes (SS3 exam periods) | No (Primary schools rarely write state exams) |
Conclusion: TESCOM teachers enjoy more financial perks, especially in urban centers. SUBEB teachers benefit more when posted to rural areas.
Which Pays Better in Each State?
| State | Higher Payer | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lagos | TESCOM | Pays higher across levels |
| Ogun | TESCOM | Teachers handling senior classes get bonuses |
| Rivers | TESCOM | Urban postings pay better |
| Enugu | TESCOM | Pays subject-based bonuses |
| Kaduna | SUBEB (rural) | Incentives for rural posting in SUBEB |
| Oyo | TESCOM | Better promotion and bonuses |
| Osun | Almost same | Small difference between the two |
| Kwara | TESCOM | More funds for education ministry |
Career Growth: SUBEB vs TESCOM
TESCOM Teachers:
Opportunity to rise from teacher to vice principal, principal, or education officer
Easier access to promotion exams and postgraduate study leave
SUBEB Teachers:
Can become head teachers or education inspectors
Limited subject specialization growth
Less exposure to national curriculum updates
Working Environment: Where Is It Easier?
SUBEB: Easier workload, shorter lesson times, and simpler subjects. Good for new teachers or NCE holders.
TESCOM: More demanding, requires better classroom control and subject mastery. Best for experienced teachers or B.Ed holders.
Which Is Better to Apply For in 2025?
If you’re wondering which one to choose between SUBEB and TESCOM, here are key tips:
| Apply to SUBEB if... | Apply to TESCOM if... |
|---|---|
| You prefer primary school teaching | You want to teach higher-level subjects |
| You’re an NCE holder or fresh graduate | You have a B.Ed or subject specialization |
| You’re comfortable teaching younger children | You want faster career growth |
| You’re okay with rural postings | You prefer urban classrooms and larger schools |
FAQs: Difference Between SUBEB and TESCOM Salary for Teachers
Which pays more—TESCOM or SUBEB?
TESCOM usually pays more than SUBEB in most Nigerian states in 2025.
Is it better to work for TESCOM or SUBEB?
TESCOM offers better pay and career opportunities, but SUBEB may offer a less stressful workload.
Can I move from SUBEB to TESCOM?
Yes, but it requires a formal application or inter-service transfer, and depends on the state policy.
Does TESCOM offer science teacher bonuses?
Yes, especially in states like Lagos, Ogun, and Rivers where STEM teachers are in high demand.
Are salaries paid on time?
This depends on the state. Generally, Lagos, Ogun, FCT, and Rivers are more consistent.
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?
In summary, the difference between SUBEB and TESCOM salary for teachers in Nigeria is clear:
TESCOM pays more overall, especially for secondary school teachers handling WAEC/NECO classes.
SUBEB pays less but may offer rural bonuses and lighter workloads.
If your goal is a long-term teaching career with higher salary, choose TESCOM.
If you want less pressure and enjoy teaching young children, SUBEB could be your path.
No matter which one you pick, both offer job security, pension, and opportunities to serve the nation through education.