JAMB Underage Admission Policy – Updated Guidelines

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board – JAMB Underage Admission Policy for candidates below 16 years taking the UTME.

This policy introduced additional four examinations and aims to ensure that only qualified candidates gain admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions.

Key Highlights of the JAMB Underage Admission Policy

Extra Exams for Underage Candidates

• JAMB has introduced four additional examinations for candidates below 16 years.
• Underage candidates must sign an indemnity letter before taking the UTME.
• Candidates who fail to meet the required standards may face disqualification.

Reason for the Extra Exams

• The policy seeks to maintain academic integrity and ensure that only qualified students are admitted.
• JAMB aims to discourage parents from pushing their children into early admission for personal ambitions.
• The new process ensures a fair and transparent admission system.

Age Requirement for Admission

• Previous Policy: Former Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, proposed setting 18 years as the minimum age for university admission.
• Current Policy: The new Minister of Education, Professor Tunji Alausa, reversed the decision, restoring the previous age eligibility requirements for admission.

JAMB remains committed to ensuring that candidates meet the necessary academic and maturity standards before gaining entry into tertiary institutions.

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