FG Sets 16 as Minimum Age for Tertiary Institution Admission
The Federal Government has officially set 16 years as the minimum age for admission into Nigeria’s Tertiary Institutions. Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, made the announcement on Tuesday during the 2025 Policy Meeting of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board in Abuja.
According to Dr. Alausa, the age benchmark is now official and non-negotiable. He warned that any admissioA carried out outside the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) would be considered illegal. The Minister also stated that Heads of Institutions found guilty of admission fraud or circumventing CAPS would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Annual policy meeting sets guidelines for the conduct of admissions into Universities, Polytechnics, and Colleges of Education for the upcoming academic session. The new policy aims to standardize admission procedures and prevent irregularities.
Dr. Alausa’s announcement is expected to have a significant impact on the education sector, particularly for students seeking admission into tertiary institutions. The Federal Government’s decision to set a minimum age limit is part of its efforts to improve the quality of education and ensure that students are adequately prepared for tertiary education.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board will work closely with tertiary institutions to ensure compliance with the new policy.
