EXPLAINER: All you need to know about underage admission – JAMB

Undergraduate admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions is regulated by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). For the upcoming 2026/2027 cycle, the minimum age for admission is 16 years by 30 September 2026. JAMB allows an exception for candidates below 16 who are exceptionally qualified and seek a waiver.

An "underage candidate" is defined as a candidate who will not be 16 years old by 30 September 2026. Being under 16 does not automatically disqualify a candidate from admission. However, such candidates must meet stringent criteria, including scoring at least 80% in each of four areas: UTME, A'Level/SSCE (O'Level), Post-UTME (PUTME), and an exceptional candidate assessment.

The procedure for underage candidates begins with the UTME (University of Tertiary Entrance Examination). After the UTME, the candidate's results undergo an intensive evaluation process before any admission decision is made. JAMB reports that underage candidates who meet the UTME threshold are invited to the next stage of assessment by their chosen institutions. Candidates are then required to upload their O'Level results to the JAMB portal.

Scoring 80% in each of the four specified areas does not guarantee admission. It only makes the candidate eligible for consideration under the exceptional waiver process. The candidate still has to complete the evaluation process and go through the standard institutional admission procedure. The minimum admission age remains 16, as per JAMB's policy.

For example, if a 15-year-old candidate has a UTME score of 82%, A'Level/SSCE (O'Level) score of 85%, Post-UTME score of 81%, and an exceptional assessment score of 80%, they can be considered under the exceptional underage process. However, admission is not automatic and requires completing the evaluation process.

To be considered for admission, underage candidates should:

1. Confirm their date of birth and whether they will be 16 by 30 September 2026.

2. Understand that they are seeking consideration under the exceptional candidate/waiver process.

3. Prepare for the required assessments, not just the UTME.

4. Aim for an 80% score in every component, rather than treating 80% as an overall average.

5. Upload their O'Level results to the JAMB portal when available.

6. Check their institution's specific admission requirements using JAMB's IBASS Eligibility Checker.