FG announces minimum age for university admissions
The Federal Government has confirmed that 16 years remains the minimum age for admission into universities, polytechnics and colleges of education across Nigeria.
Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, announced the decision on Monday during the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions to Tertiary Institutions held in Abuja.
According to the minister, the government arrived at the decision after reviewing different opinions and consultations on the matter.
He explained that the policy was aimed at balancing access to higher education with the academic readiness of students, while also taking into account exceptionally gifted candidates.
Alausa also announced new admission reliefs for candidates applying to colleges of education and some National Diploma programmes.
Under the new arrangement, candidates seeking admission into the Nigeria Certificate in Education programme with at least four credit passes will no longer be required to sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.
The exemption will also apply to candidates seeking admission into National Diploma programmes in non-technology, agricultural and agriculture-related courses.
Despite the exemption from UTME, the affected candidates will still be required to register with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board for screening and admission processing through the Central Admissions Processing System.
The minister said the policy was introduced to widen access to tertiary education, improve teacher education and encourage more students to study agriculture-related courses. He added that the move would also help reduce the number of out-of-school youths in the country.
Speaking further, Alausa warned universities, polytechnics and colleges against carrying out admissions outside JAMB’s Central Admissions Processing System. He said any admission conducted outside the platform would be regarded as illegal and would not be recognised by the government.
He added that institutions found violating the directive could face strict sanctions, including possible suspension of their operating licences.
The minister also spoke about ongoing reforms in the education sector, including the activities of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, which provides interest-free loans to students for tuition and upkeep.
He said the Federal Government was also working towards full digitalisation of national examinations and the introduction of artificial intelligence and modern technology into tertiary institution curricula to prepare students for the changing global economy.
Alausa further stated that the government remained committed to reducing examination malpractice through stronger verification systems and cooperation among education agencies.
