The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has unveiled a stringent new screening process for exceptionally high-performing candidates under the age of 16 seeking admission into Nigerian universities.
This move aligns with the federal government’s policy that sets the minimum admission age for tertiary institutions at 16 years. Only a few underage candidates—those who meet rigorous academic, psychological, and emotional standards—will now be considered for admission under the revised guidelines.
JAMB Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, announced the new measures during a virtual meeting with vice chancellors and admissions officers across the country.
Why the Change?
Professor Oloyede explained that the initiative aims to curb “academic abuse” and the growing trend of admitting children who may not be emotionally or psychologically ready for the university system.
“We are not shutting the door entirely on underage applicants,” he said, “but we must ensure that only those who show exceptional readiness—academically and mentally—are considered.”
New Academic Criteria for Under-16 Applicants
To be eligible for consideration, underage candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum UTME score: 320 out of 400 (80%)
- Post-UTME score: At least 80%
- WAEC or NECO: Minimum of 80% in a single sitting (equivalent to 24 out of 30 points)
- No result combination: Candidates cannot mix WAEC and NECO results
- Subject requirements: Science students must include high marks in Mathematics; arts students must have English among top scores
Even in institutions where post-UTME exams have been suspended, underage applicants will still be required to undergo a dedicated post-UTME screening.
Centralized Screening and New Oversight Committee
To coordinate the new process, JAMB has established a 23-member National Committee on Underage Admission, chaired by Professor Oloyede. The committee will conduct screenings in Abuja, Lagos, and Owerri.
In addition to academic performance, the new process will include psychological and emotional readiness assessments, marking a significant departure from past admission procedures.
A fourth evaluation layer—affective and psychomotor assessments—has also been introduced. This new component will be designed by a subcommittee led by Professor Taoheed Adedoja, a former Minister of Sports and expert in special education. The screening framework is expected to be finalized and submitted within one week.
This policy shift marks a significant step toward ensuring that all university entrants, regardless of age, are holistically prepared for the academic and emotional demands of higher education.
