2026 UTME Update: JAMB Withholds Results, Sets 320 Cut-Off for Underage Candidates

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has addressed widespread concerns over the “No Result Yet” status displayed by some candidates in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), confirming that results for underage candidates are being deliberately withheld in line with its admission policies.

In an official clarification, JAMB explained that the system-generated message is not an error but a regulatory measure affecting candidates who do not meet the minimum age requirement. The board noted a surge in enquiries from parents and candidates seeking explanations for the delay in result release.

According to JAMB’s guidelines, only candidates who will be at least 16 years old by September 30, 2026, are eligible to fully participate in the UTME process. Candidates below this age threshold fall under a special category governed by the board’s exceptional candidate policy.

Under this policy, underage candidates are required to demonstrate outstanding academic performance to qualify for further consideration. Specifically, such candidates must score a minimum of 320 in the UTME and also achieve at least 80 percent in subsequent post-examination screening exercises conducted by their chosen institutions.

The board emphasized that this arrangement was communicated to parents and guardians prior to the examination. Only candidates who meet the strict performance criteria will be shortlisted for additional assessments, which will determine their eligibility for admission into tertiary institutions.

JAMB further clarified that until this screening process is completed, results of underage candidates will remain withheld. The measure, according to the board, is part of ongoing efforts to uphold academic standards and ensure fairness within Nigeria’s admission system.

Stakeholders, including parents and school administrators, have been advised to remain patient as the process unfolds, with assurances that all qualified candidates will be duly considered once the evaluation stages are concluded.

The development highlights JAMB’s continued enforcement of its age and merit-based admission policies, aimed at maintaining the credibility and integrity of the nation’s higher education placement system while also providing a structured pathway for exceptionally gifted students.