JAMB Updates Age Requirement for 2024/2025 Admissions: A Win for Young Aspirants
In an important announcement, the Joint Admissions and Matriculations Board (JAMB) has updated the age criteria for candidates seeking admission into tertiary institutions for the upcoming 2024/2025 academic session. This change opens new doors for younger students aspiring to continue their education.
What’s New?
Previously, JAMB stipulated that only candidates aged 16 and above could be considered for admission. This rule was set to apply strictly with a cut-off date of December 31, 2024. However, the latest update allows candidates who are currently 15 but will turn 16 by August 31, 2025, to qualify for admission.
Why This Matters
This adjustment offers greater flexibility for educational institutions, enabling them to accept qualified students who might have been excluded due to age restrictions. The letter from JAMB, signed by Muhammed Babaji on behalf of Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, highlights the importance of fairness in the admission process. It acknowledges that some students’ eligibility could extend into August 2025.
Institutional Choices
While JAMB has relaxed the age requirement, individual institutions still retain the authority to enforce the original rule if they choose. They are encouraged to maintain their admission policies without any external pressure from JAMB.
Next Steps for Institutions
JAMB has urged all tertiary institutions to review their Central Admission Processing System (CAPS) and submit a list of candidates who will meet the new age requirement between January and August 2025. This list should be submitted within a week of receiving the announcement. The aim is to ensure that all eligible candidates have a fair opportunity for admission, regardless of their age, as long as they meet the academic standards.
This revised guideline reflects JAMB’s commitment to ensuring that no student is unfairly disadvantaged due to age, paving the way for a more inclusive educational landscape.
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