JAMB Introduces Mock UTME for Candidates Under 16, Announces 2025 Exam Dates
By DAYO ADESULU
Board Sets New Guidelines for Underage Candidates and Tightens Age Restrictions for Admission
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has introduced a mock Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) specifically for candidates below the age of 16. The JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, clarified that the mock UTME is not intended for tertiary admission but to help underage candidates test their preparedness for future exams.
Oloyede disclosed this development during a media briefing in Lagos on Sunday, where he also announced key dates for the 2025 UTME.
Key Dates for the 2025 UTME and Mock Exams
- Form Sales: January 31, 2025 – March 5, 2025
- Mock Examination: February 23, 2025
- UTME Date: March 8, 2025
Oloyede also mentioned that the sale of Direct Entry (DE) forms and e-PIN vending will commence on March 10 and conclude on April 7, 2025.
Purpose of Mock UTME for Underage Candidates
The trial mock UTME aims to provide a computer-based testing (CBT) experience for underage candidates who are below the required age for university admission. JAMB has reiterated its enforcement of the 16-year minimum age for admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
Candidates under 16 years old who wish to sit for UTME must meet the following requirements to qualify for tertiary admission:
- Score at least 280 marks in UTME.
- Perform exceptionally well in senior secondary certificate and post-UTME exams.
Fees and Categories for the 2025 JAMB Exams
- UTME with Mock: ₦8,200
- UTME without Mock: ₦7,200
- Mock Trial-Testing (Underage/Testing Only): ₦5,700
- Direct Entry (DE) Candidates: ₦5,700
Screening and Expansion of CBT Centres
JAMB has also increased the number of computer-based test centres for 2025. A total of 870 CBT centres have been screened and provisionally approved, compared to 747 centres used in the previous year.
Background on Age Policy for Admission
The JAMB age policy aligns with the Federal Government’s guidelines, which set 16 years as the minimum age for admission. Prof. Oloyede explained that while JAMB extended this benchmark in 2024 to accommodate younger candidates, a legal challenge forced the board to maintain the 16-year limit.
The former 18-year age restriction introduced by ex-Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, was reversed in late 2024 by his successor, Dr. Tunji Alausa, following public backlash.
A Step Forward for Education Standards
With these changes, JAMB aims to provide a fair and efficient system while ensuring younger candidates gain valuable exam experience through the mock UTME. The board’s efforts to expand access and tighten policies reflect its commitment to raising educational standards in Nigeria.
