As Nigeria’s 2025/2026 academic session approaches, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has formalized key admission criteria that every aspiring tertiary student needs to know. From minimum UTME scores to age limits, here’s a concise breakdown of the latest policy decisions.

New UTME Cut-Off Marks

At its Policy Meeting on 8 July 2025 held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja JAMB and stakeholders agreed on the following minimum Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) scores:

• Universities: 150

• Colleges of Nursing Sciences: 140

• Polytechnics: 100

• Colleges of Education: 100

• Colleges of Agriculture: 100

These benchmarks will govern admission offers for the upcoming academic year, ensuring clarity and consistency across all institutions.

Addressing the 2025 UTME Glitches

Earlier this year, JAMB admitted that technical issues had disrupted the UTME for some candidates. To maintain fairness, the board:

1. Identified all affected students nationwide.

2. Rescheduled their examinations, giving everyone a fresh chance to complete the UTME under proper conditions.

This remedial step underscores JAMB’s commitment to transparency and equity.

Enforcing a Minimum Age of 16

In tandem with score requirements, the Federal Government has set 16 years as the minimum age for all tertiary-level applicants. Key details include:

• Verification through JAMB’s Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS).

• Grace period for candidates turning 16 on or before 31 August 2025.

By codifying an age threshold, the policy aims to protect student welfare and uphold academic standards.

What Prospective Students Should Do Next

• Verify Your Score: Check that your UTME result meets or exceeds your chosen institution’s cut-off.

• Confirm Your Age Entry: Log in to CAPS and ensure your date of birth is correctly recorded.

• Monitor Official Channels: Follow @JAMBHQ on X (formerly Twitter) for live updates and any additional announcements.

Tips for a Smooth Admission Journey

• Gather Documents Early: Have your UTME slip, birth certificate, O’Level results, and other essentials ready.

• Stay Active on CAPS: Regularly review your admission status and correct any discrepancies immediately.

• Seek Support: If you encounter technical or procedural hurdles, reach out to your school guidance counselor or an accredited JAMB CBT center.

With these guidelines in place, Nigeria’s 2025 admission cycle promises greater transparency and a level playing field for all candidates. Prepare diligently, stay informed, and you’ll be well on your way to securing a spot in your preferred tertiary institution.