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JAMB introduces mock UTME for underage candidates below 16 years

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In a significant policy update, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has unveiled a mock Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) specifically designed for candidates under the age of 16.

The announcement was made by JAMB Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, during a meeting with media executives in Lagos on Sunday, January 26, 2025.

According to Prof. Oloyede, the initiative aims to familiarize underage candidates with the computer-based testing (CBT) environment, although it will not serve as a qualification for university or tertiary institution admissions.

“This mock trial examination is for individuals below 16 years who wish to test their aptitude in CBT but do not meet the age requirement for admission into universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education,” he clarified.

Oloyede reaffirmed that JAMB would strictly uphold the 16-year minimum age requirement for candidates seeking admission into higher institutions in 2025.

He added that exceptions would only be made for exceptionally gifted candidates below 16, provided they meet rigorous academic benchmarks.

Key provisions for such candidates include scoring at least 280 in the UTME, demonstrating outstanding academic performance in secondary school, and excelling in post-UTME evaluations.

READ ALSO: Senate reaffirms support for JAMB, pledges continued backing for education sector reforms

“The policy meeting on admissions adopted 16 years as the minimum age for 2024 admissions. JAMB will not extend registration to candidates below this threshold except in exceptional cases,” Oloyede emphasized.

The fees for the various UTME options are as follows: UTME with mock test: N8,200; UTME only: N7,200; Mock trial for underage candidates (CBT testing only): N5,700; Direct Entry candidates: N5,700.

The issue of age limits for tertiary institution admission has been a divisive topic in recent years. In 2024, then-Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, introduced an 18-year minimum age requirement for tertiary education. This policy faced widespread backlash, with critics arguing it would disenfranchise younger, academically capable candidates.

However, in November 2024, the new Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, suspended the 18-year benchmark, allowing JAMB to maintain its longstanding 16-year minimum age requirement.

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With this adjustment, JAMB introduced initiatives such as the mock trial UTME to accommodate underage candidates who seek exposure to CBT systems without violating the age policy.

The new mock UTME underscores JAMB’s efforts to balance strict enforcement of policies with inclusivity. By providing a platform for underage candidates to gain valuable experience, JAMB aims to ensure equity and readiness for future academic endeavors.

The initiative also reflects the board’s ongoing commitment to innovation, as evidenced by its efforts to automate services and reduce the need for physical interaction between candidates and officials.

As registration for the 2025 UTME begins, stakeholders are optimistic that these developments will create a smoother and more inclusive process for candidates nationwide.

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