The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has established a minimum UTME score of 320 for candidates under the age of 16 seeking admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions.

This decision follows the reversal of the 18-year minimum admission age introduced by former Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman. The current Minister of Education, Olatunji Alausa, reinstated the 16-year benchmark, a move widely supported by education stakeholders.

JAMB clarified that while 16 remains the standard admission age, younger candidates can be considered only if they score at least 320 out of 400 (80%) in the UTME, proving exceptional academic ability.

JAMB Registrar’s Statement

JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, addressed the policy during a meeting with education stakeholders. He emphasized that while age is a crucial factor in academic development, gifted students should be given opportunities.

“The Minister of Education has affirmed that 16 is the minimum admission age. However, we recognize that some students are exceptionally gifted. If a candidate under 16 scores 200 out of 400, they cannot be classified as exceptional. However, if they achieve 320 or higher, that level of excellence deserves consideration,” Oloyede stated.

He further stressed that underage candidates must not only excel in UTME but also perform outstandingly in WASSCE, Post-UTME, and GCE O/Level.

Oloyede raised concerns about private universities admitting underage students who later struggle academically. He revealed that up to 80% of such students are eventually transferred to other programs due to poor performance.

 

Additionally, he condemned manipulation of birth records by parents who push for early admission but later alter their children’s ages for NYSC eligibility.

To assess the readiness of underage candidates, JAMB has introduced a mock UTME, though it is not for admission purposes

• Sale of Forms: January 31 – March 5

• Mock UTME: February 23

• Main UTME: March 5

This policy aims to balance academic excellence with proper educational development, ensuring that only truly exceptional underage candidates gain admission.