The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced the introduction of a mock Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) specifically for candidates under the age of 16. This initiative aims to allow underage students to test their ability and familiarize themselves with the Computer-Based Test (CBT) format, although it will not qualify them for admission into tertiary institutions.
Purpose of the Mock Exam
JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, clarified during a meeting with media executives in Lagos on Sunday that the mock UTME is solely for trial testing and not for gaining admission into universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education.
“We are introducing a mock trial-testing examination this year for candidates who are below 16 years and would not qualify for admission but wish to test their ability and experience CBT,” Oloyede stated.
Key Dates for 2025 UTME
- Sale of Forms: January 31, 2025, to March 5, 2025
- Mock UTME: February 23, 2025
- UTME: March 8, 2025
- Direct Entry Application Sales: March 10, 2025, to April 7, 2025
Age Limit for UTME Candidates
JAMB has reinforced the 16-year minimum age requirement for candidates to qualify for admission. Only gifted candidates under 15 years will be allowed to register, provided they score at least 280 marks in UTME and excel in their senior secondary certificate examinations and post-UTME tests.
“Candidates must be 16 years old on or before September 30 to qualify for admission,” Oloyede emphasized, adding that this policy aligns with decisions made at the policy meeting on admission.
Fee Structure for 2025 JAMB Applications
- UTME with Mock: ₦8,200
- UTME only (without Mock): ₦7,200
- Trial-Testing Mock (Underage/Testing Only): ₦5,700
- Direct Entry Candidates: ₦5,700
Mock Exam for Underage and Non-Admission Candidates
The mock examination is open to candidates who wish to gain CBT experience without applying for university admission in 2025. This move is designed to provide exposure and preparedness for future academic pursuits.
Expanded CBT Centres for 2025
JAMB has increased the number of Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres for the 2025 UTME from 747 to 870, ensuring broader access and smoother conduct of the examinations.
Policy on Age for Admission
JAMB’s decision to enforce the 16-year age minimum comes after debates and legal challenges over age restrictions for tertiary education. While a previous announcement by former Education Minister Prof. Tahir Mamman set the age at 18 years, it was reversed in November 2024 by his successor, Dr. Tunji Alausa, following public criticism.
This latest initiative by JAMB not only reinforces the board’s commitment to structured admission policies but also ensures that young learners can engage with the UTME system in a low-stakes environment.
