The Federal Government has officially set 16 years as the minimum age for admission into all tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, made this announcement during the 2025 Policy Meeting of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in Abuja.
Dr Alausa stated that the new rule is now official and must be strictly followed. He explained that the age limit ensures students are both mentally ready and academically prepared for higher education. Any admission made outside the JAMB Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) or for students under 16 will now be considered invalid. However, he said exceptions could be made for gifted students who finished school early. However, such cases must be proven. He also warned institutions and parents not to change age records to beat the new rule. Schools and officials who break the rule will face legal punishment.
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