The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has introduced an 80 per cent performance benchmark for underage candidates seeking admission into tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
Under the new condition, candidates who fall below the stipulated admission age must score at least 80 per cent in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), post-UTME and O-level screening before they can be considered for admission.
JAMB announced the clarification on Thursday through its official X account as part of its public education series, “JAMB Explained”.
The board said the rule applies to candidates who will be below 16 years old by September 30 of the relevant admission year.
According to JAMB, the September 30 age threshold was established by the Federal Ministry of Education as part of Nigeria’s admission policy.
Candidates who have not attained the stipulated age are still permitted to sit for the UTME. However, taking the examination does not automatically make an underage candidate eligible for admission.
Such candidates must meet additional conditions for exceptional consideration.
“In practical terms, an underage candidate must demonstrate exceptional academic performance across the required stages,” JAMB said.
The board explained that the 80 per cent benchmark covers three major assessment stages: UTME, post-UTME and O-level screening.
This means an underage candidate is expected to maintain a high level of academic performance throughout the admission process.
JAMB, however, clarified that meeting the 80 per cent benchmark does not guarantee admission.
Universities, polytechnics and other tertiary institutions retain the authority to determine whether candidates who meet the benchmark will be admitted.
“Ultimately, the institution you choose determines whether you will be admitted,” the board stated.
The clarification is expected to help parents and prospective candidates understand the distinction between being eligible to sit for the UTME and being eligible for admission.
JAMB’s position means that candidates below the stipulated age must satisfy both the national admission requirements and any additional conditions set by their chosen institutions before they can secure admission.
