This study was designed to assess parental influence on career choice of students in FCT secondary schools, Abuja. The samples were selected using random sampling to select one private school and one government school from each of the six Area Councils, of FCT making the total number of schools selected twelve (12) in number and 375 students from all the schools. Primary data were collected using questionnaire and were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages and mean scores. The hypotheses were tested with the aid of t-test statistic at significance level of 0.05. The results from the study showed male students appeared to be more influenced by their parents in their career choice. Similarly, parental influence on students’ career choice differed from public schools to private schools. From, findings, it is recommended that parents should not force their children to pursue careers that they did not like or desire. Also, government and stakeholders in making education policies and planning should introduce comprehensive programme and curriculum that can encourage career choice among students from primary schools to secondary school level.

Keywords: Career Choice, Federal Capital Territory, Parental Influence, Secondary Schools