JAMB Sets 80% UTME, Post-UTME Benchmark For Underage Candidates

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has clarified its policy on underage candidates seeking admission into tertiary institutions, explaining the conditions under which they may be considered for admission.

JAMB, in a post on its X account, said a candidate is considered underage if he or she is below 16 years of age on or before September 30 of the admission year.

The examination body explained that the September 30 age threshold was a policy instituted by the Federal Ministry of Education.

JAMB clarified that candidates below the age of 16 are permitted to sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), but such candidates would be classified as underage candidates.

It, however, said underage candidates must meet additional requirements to qualify for admission consideration.

Read Also: JAMB Warns UTME, Direct Entry Candidates Against Profile Errors

“An underage candidate must score 80 percent in UTME, post-UTME and O-level screening to be eligible for admission,” JAMB said.

The board further explained that underage candidates are generally not considered for admission unless they meet the criteria for exceptional candidates.

JAMB also stressed that admission ultimately depends on the institution chosen by the candidate.

“Please note that your admission is solely dependent on the choice of your institution,” the board said.

The clarification was issued as part of JAMB’s public education initiative, “JAMB Explained,” aimed at providing candidates with information on admission policies and procedures.