JAMB introduces mock UTME for candidates below 16

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has introduced a mock Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) designed for candidates below the age of 16.

Speaking at a meeting with media executives in Lagos on Sunday, JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, clarified that the mock UTME is not intended for tertiary institution admission but rather for underage students seeking to test their abilities.

“This year’s UTME will hold on March 8, 2025. The sale of forms will begin on January 31 and end on March 5. A mock exam is scheduled for February 23,” Oloyede announced.

He further explained that the mock exam would provide trial testing for candidates ineligible for admission into universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education due to the age limit of 16 years. To qualify for admission, candidates must turn 16 on or before September 30.

Oloyede added that candidates not seeking admission in 2025 but desiring a computer-based testing experience could also register for the trial mock exams.

The registration fees are as follows:

• UTME with mock: ₦8,200
• UTME only: ₦7,200
• Trial-testing mock only (underage or practice): ₦5,700
• Direct Entry candidates: ₦5,700

JAMB will also enforce the 16-year minimum age limit for registration, with exceptions for gifted underage candidates who meet strict criteria. Such candidates must score at least 280 in the UTME and perform exceptionally in their senior secondary certificate and post-UTME exams.

In related developments, Oloyede disclosed that 870 computer-based test centers had been approved for the 2025 UTME, an increase from 747 centers in the previous year.