By DAYO ADESULU
New Initiative Aims to Prepare Candidates Below 16 for CBT Experience
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has launched a mock Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for candidates under the age of 16. According to the JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, this initiative is not intended for university admission but to provide young candidates with a chance to test their examination readiness and familiarize themselves with the computer-based testing (CBT) system.
Mock UTME for Underage Candidates Explained
Speaking at a media meeting in Lagos on Sunday, Prof. Oloyede clarified that the mock exam is designed for candidates who do not meet the minimum age requirement of 16 years for admission into universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education.
“Candidates below 16 years who wish to experience the CBT process can register for the trial-testing examination. It is solely for practice purposes,” he said.
Key Dates for 2025 UTME and Mock Exams
- Sale of UTME Forms: January 31 – March 5, 2025
- Mock Examination: February 23, 2025
- Main UTME: March 8, 2025
Additionally, the sale of Direct Entry application forms and e-PINs will begin on March 10, 2025, and end on April 7, 2025.
Exam Fees Breakdown
Prof. Oloyede outlined the fees for various categories:
- UTME with Mock: ₦8,200
- UTME Only: ₦7,200
- Mock Only (Underage or Trial Testing): ₦5,700
- Direct Entry Candidates: ₦5,700
He added that the board would strictly enforce the 16-year minimum age requirement for UTME registration. Candidates younger than 16 would only be allowed to register for mock exams unless they demonstrate exceptional academic ability by scoring at least 280 marks in UTME and excelling in post-UTME and senior secondary certificate examinations.
Age Limit Controversies and Policy Updates
JAMB recently reinstated the 16-year age limit for admissions after a court ruling reversed its previous attempt to extend the minimum age requirement. Prof. Oloyede also emphasized that only gifted candidates below 15 years old who meet the required academic standards would qualify for admission.
The announcement follows a prior declaration by former Minister of Education Prof. Tahir Mamman, who proposed an 18-year minimum age for tertiary admission in 2024. After public backlash, this policy was suspended by his successor, Dr. Tunji Alausa, in November 2024.
Expanded CBT Centre Approval for 2025
To accommodate the growing number of candidates, JAMB has screened and approved 870 computer-based test centres for the 2025 UTME. This marks an increase from 747 centres approved in 2024, ensuring a smoother and more efficient examination process.
