TundeWhy JAMB Withheld Results of Underage Candidates
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially confirmed that it has withheld the UTME 2026 results of underage candidates, following concerns from parents and students seeing “No Result Yet” on the result checking portal.
This clarification comes as thousands of candidates continue to check their results after participating in the ongoing 2026 UTME nationwide.
Why Is Your UTME 2026 Result Showing “No Result Yet”?
According to JAMB, candidates who are below the approved age requirement will not see their results immediately.
The board stated clearly that:
- Only candidates who will be at least 16 years old by 30 September 2026 are eligible for UTME.
- Results of candidates below this age are temporarily withheld.
This explanation was provided by JAMB spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, in response to widespread inquiries from parents.
Exception for Academically Gifted Candidates
Although the age rule is strict, JAMB allows a special exception for exceptionally brilliant (gifted) candidates.
However, such candidates must pass a strict multi-stage screening process before their results can be released or considered for admission.
Requirements for Underage Candidates (Exceptional Category)
- Score at least 320 in UTME
- Score 80% or above in Post-UTME
- Achieve minimum of 80% in SSCE (WAEC/NECO)
- Meet subject-specific requirements:
- Science candidates must have Mathematics among top subjects
- Arts candidates must perform strongly in English Language
In addition, underage candidates must undergo a special post-UTME screening, even in universities where post-UTME has been suspended.
Why JAMB Enforces the Age Policy
JAMB Registrar, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, explained that the policy is designed to ensure that candidates are:
- Psychologically prepared
- Emotionally mature
- Socially ready for university life
He further stated that only candidates who score 320 and above will proceed to the next stage of screening under the exceptional category.
UTME 2026 Results Are Being Released in Batches
While underage candidates’ results are withheld, JAMB continues to release results for other candidates in phases.
- Results for candidates who sat on April 16, 2026 (Day 1) have been released
- Over 632,000 results were initially made available
- More results from Friday, Saturday, and Monday sessions have also been released
The 2026 UTME began on April 16 and is being conducted across multiple centres nationwide, with over 2.2 million candidates participating.
What Underage Candidates Should Do Now
If your result is showing “No Result Yet” and you are under 16 years old, there is no need to panic.
Your result is likely being withheld pending:
- Age eligibility verification
- Exceptional candidate screening process
Ensure you stay updated with official announcements from JAMB and your chosen institution.
Conclusion
The withholding of underage candidates results is part of JAMB effort to maintain academic standards and ensure candidates are fully prepared for higher education.
For now, affected candidates should remain patient as the evaluation process continues.
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