EXPLAINER: Why under-16 candidates may write UTME but not gain admission
Understand JAMB’s age requirement for UTME and admission. Learn why candidates under 16 may write the exam but face strict conditions for admission. Read More: https://punchng.com/explainer-why-under-16-candidates-may-write-utme-but-not-gain-admission/
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has clarified its policy on underage candidates seeking admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions. According to JAMB, candidates below the age of 16 may still sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), but they are classified as underage. The policy, instituted by the Federal Ministry of Education, sets September 30 as the cut-off date for candidates to avoid being considered underage.
Being below 16 years does not prevent a candidate from participating in the UTME. However, mere participation in the examination does not guarantee admission for underage candidates. To be eligible for admission, underage candidates must meet a higher performance threshold. Specifically, they must score 80% in the UTME, post-UTME, and O-level screening processes.
This means that an underage candidate must demonstrate exceptional performance across these examinations and screenings before being considered for admission. The stringent requirements ensure that only the most qualified candidates are admitted, even among those who are underage.
Written by urgent.news from Punch Nigeria's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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