NaijNaira
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has introduced a fresh set of academic benchmarks for underage students who sat for the 2025 UTME – www.naijnaira.com reports.
According to data published by Punch, 599 candidates under the age of 16 scored 320 and above in this year’s exam, but cannot be admitted into universities unless they meet additional criteria.
JAMB’s Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, confirmed that while 16 remains the official entry age, exceptions may be made for a few truly outstanding applicants.
He stated, “We’re not lowering standards. Instead, we want to identify exceptionally brilliant minds without compromising the maturity required for tertiary life.”
To even be considered, these under-16 students must score at least 80% in their post-UTME and their WASSCE or NECO results must reflect a minimum of 80% in one sitting.
He also stressed that the use of combined results from multiple exam bodies like WAEC and NECO won’t be allowed in these special cases.
Vice-chancellors and education experts joined the screening committee virtually from Lagos, Abuja, and Owerri to ensure fairness and transparency in selecting deserving candidates.
Oloyede cautioned against rushing young children into universities, warning parents that such pressure could do more harm than good.
The panel plans to complete the review process before the September 30 admission deadline, with final decisions based on a blend of academic performance and maturity.
Some institutions, including the Air Force Institute of Technology and University of Jos, already enforce strict age policies and reject applications from students below 16.
