When Brilliance Comes Early: JAMB’s Rare Approval for 85 Underage Students
By Naija Enquirer Staff
When 15-year-old Kemi opened her admission letter from a Nigerian university this month, she became part of a rare group — students admitted before turning 16. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) announced that only 85 underage candidates received approval after an intensive screening under its exceptional admission policy.
According to JAMB, the decision aligns with global practices where exceptionally gifted students are occasionally admitted early under strict academic and psychological review. Out of more than two million applicants for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), 41,027 sought special consideration as underage candidates. Only 599 of them, who scored at least 80 per cent in the examination, were shortlisted for further screening. After interviews and documentation, just 85 were granted university admission.
Rare Admissions, Rigorous Screening
JAMB’s Public Communication Adviser, Dr Fabian Benjamin, explained that the exceptional policy was designed to balance fairness with flexibility. “These admissions were not granted lightly. Each candidate went through a transparent and thorough verification process,” he said.
Education experts say the decision highlights the delicate balance between rewarding brilliance and ensuring emotional readiness. “Early admission can help gifted children reach their potential, but universities must also provide mentoring and social support,” noted education psychologist, Dr Nkiru Odu.
Global Practice, Local Debate
Globally, some universities in the United Kingdom and the United States occasionally accept students as young as 14 or 15, though such cases remain rare and carefully supervised. In Nigeria, the standard rule sets the minimum age for tertiary admission at 16 years, making JAMB’s decision both exceptional and controversial.
While some parents have praised the move as recognition of academic excellence, others question whether Nigerian universities are adequately equipped to support much younger learners academically and socially.
Balancing Policy with Potential
JAMB emphasized that each case will continue to be evaluated individually through its support ticketing system to maintain fairness and transparency. The board reaffirmed its commitment to upholding high academic standards while creating space for exceptional talent.
For Kemi, who aspires to become an engineer, the opportunity represents a dream realized early. “I know I’m young, but I’m ready to work hard,” she said with determination.
Name changed to protect identity.
