JAMB Sets 320 As UTME Cut-off Mark for Under-16 Candidates

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced that candidates under 16 can be considered for university admission if they score at least 80% (320/400) in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede stated that while 16 remains the standard admission age, exceptional candidates under this age may be considered if they demonstrate outstanding academic ability.

Candidates must excel across multiple assessments, including UTME, WASSCE, Post-UTME, and GCE O/Level.

Oloyede emphasised that age is crucial for maturity and academic growth, but exceptional students who score 320 or more in the UTME should be given the opportunity
“We acknowledge that some gifted children exist. These individuals should not be overlooked. We must identify them and allow them to sit for the exams.”

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He raised concerns about the struggles faced by underage students, especially in private universities, where many later switch to other programs due to poor performance.

He also criticised the manipulation of birth records by some parents to secure early admission, only to later alter ages for National Youth Service Corps eligibility.

Additionally, JAMB has introduced a mock UTME for underage candidates to assess their academic abilities. Registration for the mock exam runs from January 31 to March 5, with the mock exam on February 23 and the main UTME on March 8.

Current Minister of Education, Olatunji Alausa reinstated the previous age requirement of 16 after the 18-year admission age limit was introduced by former Education Minister, Tahir Mamman.