"JAMB updates policy to encourage enrollment in Education and Agriculture through new UTME exemptions."
In a major policy shift aimed at boosting the enrollment of students into critical sectors of the Nigerian economy, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has introduced exemptions for candidates pursuing specific courses in Education and Agriculture. According to announcements made following the 2026 policy meeting, candidates applying for non-engineering courses within these two faculties will be granted significant concessions. This move is part of the federal government's broader effort to incentivize youth participation in farming and teaching, both of which are currently facing a critical human resource deficit.
The policy, detailed by JAMB spokesperson Fabian Benjamin, clarifies that while the standard UTME remains a prerequisite for most degree programs, these specific pathways will see a more flexible approach to admission requirements. Furthermore, the board reiterated that the minimum age for entry into any Nigerian tertiary institution remains 16 years. Candidates who sat for the exam on April 16, 2026, can continue to check their results via the official SMS platform by texting their details to 55019 or 66019. Students interested in these exempted courses are encouraged to verify the specific entry requirements for their target universities, as some institutions may still apply additional internal screening criteria despite the JAMB exemption.
Calculate Your 2026 University Aggregate Score
Check your admission chances across UNILAG, LASU, UI, OAU, FUTA, UNIBEN, and 50+ Nigerian institutions with CampusAI's official formula engine.
Calculate Aggregate Score Now →
