JAMB Toughens Rules for Underage Geniuses Seeking Varsity Entry

Dennis Gabriel

Abuja, Nigeria — The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) introduces rigorous new measures to screen exceptional candidates under 16 seeking university admission in the 2025/2026 academic year.

At a virtual meeting with vice-chancellors on Wednesday, JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, declared an end to the “academic abuse” of psychologically unprepared minors being rushed into university. “We’re not saying no child under 16 will be admitted, but they must pass through a rigorous process that confirms they are truly gifted,” Oloyede said.

Under the revised policy, underage candidates must attain a minimum UTME score of 320, post-UTME of 80%, and at least 80% in WAEC or NECO in one sitting. Mixing WAEC and NECO results is now disallowed.

Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, affirmed that the reforms align with the government’s 16-year minimum age policy for university entry, aimed at balancing academic excellence with emotional maturity.

A 23-member National Committee on Underage Admissions has been inaugurated, chaired by Oloyede, to oversee the screening in Abuja, Lagos, and Owerri. The board also introduces affective and psychomotor assessments for the first time.

Only 599 of over 38,000 underage applicants scored above 320 and are now eligible for screening. “Even they are not guaranteed admission unless cleared by the multi-layered system,” Oloyede warned.

At least four universities have opted out of underage admissions altogether, including the University of Jos and the Air Force Institute of Technology.

Oloyede criticised societal pressure and poor policy enforcement for fuelling early academic rush, stating, “Many parents use their children’s academic progression to boost their own image in society. It’s a toxic culture.”

The Registrar urged institutions to cooperate with the reforms, noting, “This is about the future of our children and the integrity of our education system.”