JAMB Clarifies ‘No Result Yet’ Status, Sets 320 Cut-Off for Underage Candidates

JAMB Clarifies ‘No Result Yet’ Status, Sets 320 Cut-Off for Underage Candidates

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has clarified the growing confusion surrounding the “No Result Yet” message being displayed to some candidates who sat for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), explaining that the development is intentional and part of its underage admission policy.

The clarification was issued by JAMB spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, who said the board is currently withholding the results of underage candidates in line with existing admission regulations and exceptional candidate screening procedures.

According to him, the “No Result Yet” notification does not indicate technical failure or missing results but reflects an ongoing verification and assessment process for candidates who fall below the approved age requirement for tertiary education.

JAMB reiterated that only candidates who will be at least 16 years old by September 30, 2026, are eligible for admission through the UTME, in accordance with national education guidelines.

READ ALSO:

• Gunmen Kill Pastor, Wife, Children in Fresh Plateau Night Attack
• Nigerians Risk Visa Denials Over Overstay Violations, US Warns
• LASTMA to Launch Free Short Code for Traffic Updates, Complaints

However, under the board’s exceptional admission policy, underage candidates who are allowed to sit for the examination must demonstrate outstanding academic performance. This includes a minimum UTME score of 320 out of 400 and at least 80 per cent performance in subsequent screening exercises before they can be considered for admission.

Benjamin explained that the policy was agreed upon with parents and stakeholders and is designed to ensure that only exceptionally qualified underage candidates progress to the next stage of evaluation.

He further disclosed that only candidates who meet the required benchmark will be shortlisted for further screening, while others will not proceed in the admission process.

The board stressed that results for underage candidates will remain temporarily withheld until all verification and screening procedures are concluded. Successful candidates will be contacted directly for further assessment once the process is completed.

Education authorities, including the Federal Ministry of Education, have consistently backed stricter age and performance standards, saying the reforms are aimed at improving academic readiness, reducing dropout rates, and strengthening Nigeria’s tertiary education system.

JAMB urged candidates and parents to remain calm and avoid misinformation circulating on social media, assuring that the system is functioning as designed and that no eligible candidate will be unfairly treated.

The board reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the UTME examination process and ensuring that admission into Nigerian universities is based strictly on merit and compliance with established rules.

JAMB Clarifies ‘No Result Yet’ Status, Sets 320 Cut-Off for Underage Candidates