JAMB Introduces Mock UTME for Underage Candidates

  T he Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has unveiled a mock Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) specifically designed for candidates under 16 years old. This initiative aims to provide an opportunity for these candidates to assess their abilities and gain experience with Computer-Based Testing (CBT), although it does not qualify them for tertiary institution admissions.

Details of the Initiative:

• Mock Exam Purpose: JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, explained that the mock UTME is for trial-testing purposes, enabling underage individuals to familiarize themselves with the exam process.

• Examination Schedule:

  • Mock UTME: February 23, 2025.
  • Main UTME: March 8, 2025.

• Registration Dates: The sale of forms will run from January 31 to March 5, 2025.

• Eligibility: To gain admission into universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education, candidates must be at least 16 years old by September 30 of the admission year. Exceptionally gifted candidates below 15 years old may qualify if they score 280 or higher in the UTME and perform outstandingly in other required examinations.

Cost of Registration:

• UTME with mock: ₦8,200.
• UTME only (without mock): ₦7,200.
• Trial-testing mock only (for underage or practice): ₦5,700.
• Direct Entry: ₦5,700.

Policy Clarifications:

• Age Limit: The board is strictly enforcing the 16-year minimum age requirement, except for exceptionally gifted candidates.
• Historical Context: In 2024, the Federal Government reversed a policy setting the minimum age for admission to 18 years after public backlash. The current age limit remains 16 years for 2025 admissions.

Additional Updates:

• JAMB has screened and provisionally approved 870 CBT centers for the 2025 UTME, an increase from the 747 centers approved last year.
• The sale of Direct Entry application documents and e-PIN vending will commence on March 10 and conclude on April 7, 2025.

This initiative underscores JAMB’s commitment to providing inclusive and preparatory opportunities for candidates while maintaining rigorous admission standards for tertiary institutions.