JAMB 2024 Policy Meeting Outcomes: New Cut-Off Marks and Age Requirements Announced

 The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has concluded its 2024 policy meeting, resulting in significant updates to the admission process for tertiary institutions in Nigeria. These changes include new cut-off marks for universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, as well as a revised minimum age requirement for admission.

New Cut-Off Marks

The policy meeting set the following cut-off marks for the 2024 admission cycle:

• Universities: The minimum cut-off mark has been set at 140.
• Polytechnics and Colleges of Education: The minimum cut-off mark has been set at 100.

These cut-off marks are intended to standardize the admission process and ensure a fair selection of candidates across various tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

Revised Minimum Age Requirement

Starting from the 2025 admission cycle, the minimum age for admission into any tertiary institution in Nigeria has been set at 18 years old. This policy aims to ensure that students are adequately matured and prepared for the rigors of higher education.

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JAMB has also offered support for students who do not meet the new age requirement for the 2025 admission cycle. Prospective students and their guardians are encouraged to contact JAMB for assistance and guidance on their educational journey.

Implications and Reactions

The new policies have been met with a mix of reactions from educational stakeholders, students, and parents. The increased cut-off marks for universities aim to raise academic standards and ensure that students admitted to these institutions are well-prepared for university-level education. On the other hand, the more accessible cut-off marks for polytechnics and colleges of education are designed to promote technical and vocational education, making these pathways more accessible to a broader range of students. The minimum age requirement is also a step in the right direction, as it aligns with global standards and ensures students are ready for the challenges of tertiary education."

Students have been advised to take note of these changes as they prepare for the 2024 JAMB examinations and subsequent admission processes. Educational institutions have also been urged to align their admission criteria with the new policies to ensure a smooth and transparent admission process.

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Message to Prospective Students

JAMB has reiterated its commitment to supporting students throughout their educational journey. Prospective students who do not meet the new age requirement for the 2025 admission cycle are encouraged to reach out to JAMB for assistance. "We are here to help and guide students through these transitions. Our goal is to ensure that every student has the opportunity to pursue their educational goals," said a JAMB spokesperson.

These policy changes mark a significant shift in Nigeria's tertiary education landscape, aiming to enhance the quality and accessibility of higher education across the country.