Official JAMB Age Limit in Nigeria 2025/2026 : Everything You Need to Know

The Official JAMB Age Limit for 2025/2026 and Everything You Need to Know about Jamb Age requirement can be accessed below..

What Is the JAMB Age Requirement for 2025/2026?

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is responsible for conducting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Nigeria. Every year, millions of students take this exam, hoping to secure admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

One of the biggest concerns for students and parents is the age requirement for JAMB registration. There has been a lot of confusion recently about whether JAMB will raise the minimum age limit from 16 to 18. Let’s break it all down so you know exactly what to expect.

Current Age Requirement for JAMB Registration

As of the 2025/2026 academic session, the minimum age to register for JAMB remains 16 years. This means if you will be 16 years old by August 31, 2025, you are eligible to sit for the JAMB UTME and apply for admission into higher institutions in Nigeria.

This policy follows Nigeria’s National Policy on Education, which sets 16 years as the minimum age for university, polytechnic, and college admissions.

Did JAMB Try to Raise the Age Limit to 18?

Yes! Earlier, JAMB proposed increasing the minimum age for admission to 18 years, starting from the 2025/2026 session. However, this decision was met with strong opposition from students, parents, and education experts.

Why Did JAMB Consider Raising the Age Limit?

The proposal to increase the age limit was based on:

• Maturity and Preparedness: Older students may be more mentally and emotionally prepared for the challenges of tertiary education.
• Global Standards: In many countries, students enter higher institutions at 18 or older.
• Better Academic Performance: Some believe older students perform better due to increased maturity.

Policy Reversal: JAMB Sticks to 16 Years

On November 5, 2024, the new Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced that JAMB would not increase the age limit. He emphasized that the 16-year benchmark is in line with Nigeria’s education policy and ensures more students have access to tertiary education.

Special Consideration for Gifted Students

If you are exceptionally gifted but not yet 16, you may still be considered for admission—provided you meet academic requirements. Schools will evaluate such cases individually.

What This Means for Students and Parents

If You Are 16 or Older by August 31, 2025

Good news! You can:

• Register for the JAMB UTME.
• Apply for admission to universities, polytechnics, and colleges.

If You Are Under 16

• You might have to wait another year to write JAMB.
• If you are a gifted student, you could still be considered for admission.

What About Parents?

Parents should ensure their children’s school progress matches the JAMB age requirement to avoid last-minute registration issues.

Is There a Maximum Age for JAMB?

No! There is no upper age limit for taking the JAMB exam. Whether you are 25, 40, or even 60 years old, you can sit for JAMB and gain admission into a tertiary institution if you meet other academic requirements.

How to Prepare for JAMB If You Meet the Age Requirement

Once you confirm you are eligible, it’s time to start preparing! Here’s how:

1. Register Early

JAMB registration usually starts months before the exam. Avoid delays by registering as soon as possible.

2. Study with the JAMB Syllabus

The JAMB syllabus highlights key topics you need to study for each subject. Use it to focus on important areas.

3. Practice with Past Questions

JAMB often repeats past questions. Studying previous years’ questions will help you understand the exam pattern.

4. Attend Tutorials

Joining a JAMB tutorial center or online study group can help you tackle difficult topics.

5. Take Mock Exams

JAMB mock tests simulate real exam conditions and help you get comfortable with the CBT format.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the minimum age for JAMB in 2025/2026?

The minimum age is 16 years as of August 31, 2025.

2. Can I write JAMB if I am under 16?

No—unless you are a gifted student who meets all academic requirements.

3. Why did JAMB want to increase the age limit?

JAMB initially proposed 18 years to improve maturity levels, align with global standards, and enhance academic performance. However, the policy was reversed.

4. Is there a maximum age limit for JAMB?

No, there is no age limit. You can write JAMB at any age if you meet the academic requirements.

5. What should students under 16 do while waiting for JAMB?

• Focus on excelling in secondary school.
• Improve your study habits.
• Join extracurricular activities to develop useful skills.

Conclusion

The JAMB age requirement for 2025/2026 remains 16 years, following the decision to reverse the proposed 18-year limit. This ensures more students can access tertiary education in Nigeria.

If you are eligible, start preparing early and follow a study plan to ace your JAMB exam. If you are below 16, use this time to strengthen your academic foundation.

Share this article with friends preparing for JAMB so they stay informed!