JAMB Approves 150 as 2025 University Cut-Off Mark | 16 Years Now Minimum Age for Admission
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially approved 150 as the minimum cut-off mark for admission into Nigerian universities for the 2025 academic session. This decision was reached during the annual policy meeting held with stakeholders in the education sector, where guidelines for the upcoming admission process were reviewed and finalized.
According to JAMB, the 150 cut-off mark will serve as a baseline, while individual institutions still retain the autonomy to set higher benchmarks based on their admission policies and program competitiveness. This move aims to promote merit-based selection while ensuring equal access to higher education opportunities across the country.
In addition to the cut-off mark, JAMB also reinforced the policy that the minimum age for gaining admission into any Nigerian university remains 16 years. The Board emphasized that candidates must have reached this age by the time of admission to be eligible, reaffirming its stance on maintaining academic maturity and readiness among undergraduates.
Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, stated that the decisions are part of broader reforms to enhance the credibility, fairness, and transparency of the admission process. He also highlighted the importance of institutional compliance with agreed standards, encouraging universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education to uphold the guidelines without compromise.
This announcement has sparked reactions from students, parents, and educational experts across the country. While some welcome the 150 benchmark as an opportunity for more candidates to qualify for university education, others are calling for a more holistic review of admission criteria, including post-UTME assessments and catchment area considerations.
As the 2025 admission season approaches, prospective students are advised to keep abreast of specific requirements set by their preferred institutions, as these may vary despite the national benchmark.
