The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially announced the UTME cut-off mark for exceptionally gifted candidates below the age of 16.
According to the Registrar, JAMB has introduced the Exceptionally Brilliant Window, allowing these young candidates to register for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
This initiative provides an opportunity for academically outstanding students to prove their capabilities despite their age.
JAMB Cut-off Mark for Candidates Under 16 Years
JAMB has set a minimum UTME cut-off mark of 320 for candidates under the age of 16.
This score represents 80% of the total UTME score, which is 400 marks. By establishing this benchmark, JAMB ensures that only the most capable young candidates qualify for admission.
This decision follows the recent reversal of the mandatory 18-year admission age benchmark, reinstating the previous requirement of 16 years as the minimum admission age. However, exceptional candidates below this age may still gain entry under specific conditions.
JAMB Age Requirement Limitation
The official age requirement remains 16 years for application for the 2025 JAMB UTME.
Candidates must be at least 16 years old by Tuesday, 30th September 2025, to be eligible for application and admission consideration.
While this remains the standard, JAMB acknowledges that some exceptional students under 16 may be granted admission under strict conditions. These candidates must demonstrate extraordinary academic potential to qualify.
Conditions for Admission of Exceptional Candidates
Candidates below the age of 16 must prove their exceptional academic ability through multiple assessments, including UTME, WASSCE, Post-UTME, and GCE O/Level exams.
To be recognized as truly exceptional, these young candidates must achieve at least 80% of the total UTME score, meaning a minimum of 320 out of 400. This high benchmark ensures that only the most academically capable individuals gain admission despite their age.
JAMB Age Requirement and Legal Considerations
JAMB’s age requirement aligns with legal and educational guidelines. Age plays a crucial role in intellectual maturity and academic development. If it didn’t, there wouldn’t be age limits for leadership positions, such as local government chairman.
Biological age is closely linked to intellectual growth, yet JAMB acknowledges that exceptions exist. Some students possess extraordinary intelligence beyond their years, and they deserve an opportunity to showcase their abilities through standardized examinations.
The board has raised concerns about private universities admitting underage candidates who struggle academically. Reports indicate that up to 80% of these students eventually transfer to other programs due to poor performance.
Furthermore, JAMB strongly condemns the manipulation of birth records by parents eager to secure early admission for their children. Many later attempted to alter these records again for eligibility in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, causing complications down the line.
JAMB Mock UTME for Underage Candidates
To further assess the readiness of underage candidates, JAMB has introduced a mock UTME.
Unlike the main UTME, this mock exam is not intended for direct admission into tertiary institutions. Instead, it serves as a way for young candidates to test their academic abilities before attempting the actual UTME.
The sale of UTME forms began on Monday, 3rd February, and will continue until Saturday, 8th March 2025. The mock examination is scheduled for Saturday, 5th April 2025, while the main UTME will commence on Friday, 25th April 2025.
The board aims to maintain academic standards while ensuring that truly exceptional young candidates receive a fair opportunity.
Recommended Links
1. JAMB Breakdown of Approved Fees
2. JAMB Registration and Exam Dates