The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has registered more than 700,000 candidates ahead of its upcoming examinations.
JAMB Registrar, Ishaq Oloyede, shared this update on Friday while inspecting several Computer-Based Test (CBT) centers in Lagos. He revealed that the total number of registered candidates had reached 779,714, including over 11,000 underage applicants.
“As of today, we have registered 779,714 candidates. This is the second week and the tenth day of registration,” Oloyede said. He later updated the figures, stating that registrations had increased to 780,202, with 11,512 underage applicants. “Today alone, 443 underage candidates were registered,” he added.
Oloyede explained that JAMB introduced a policy this year to accommodate exceptionally gifted underage candidates. While the minimum age for candidates remains 16, exceptions are made for highly talented individuals under that age.
“The policy maintains the minimum age of 16, as in 2024, but allows exceptions for highly gifted underage candidates. Underage candidates are those below 16 but exceptionally brilliant, typically aged 13 to 14,” he stated. However, he acknowledged concerns about the misuse of this provision in Nigeria, emphasizing that only a small number of truly exceptional candidates would be considered. “We identify a few such individuals, perhaps 30 to 50 across the country.”
Encouraging such candidates to apply, he said, “If you believe you have something exceptional, you should register.”
JAMB has also created an opportunity for underage and overage individuals to experience the CBT format without officially being classified as candidates. Oloyede clarified, “Those under 16 are applicants, not candidates. Only those 16 and above are regarded as candidates.” Applicants who do not meet the criteria may face penalties, and he advised them to wait to avoid wasting their money.
Additionally, JAMB has introduced a trial testing category for candidates who want to familiarize themselves with the exam process. Those who register under this category do not pay JAMB any fees.
“Trial testing candidates do not pay JAMB any fees,” he explained. “They pay N1,000 for a book, N700 to the CBT center, N1,500 for the exam venue, and N300 to banks as a commission. This totals N3,500, with JAMB taking nothing from them.” So far, 523 candidates have registered for this trial testing program.
Oloyede concluded his visit by inspecting several CBT centers on the Lagos Mainland, ensuring they were prepared for the upcoming examinations.
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