FG Retains 16 Years As Minimum Admission Age For Tertiary Institutions

The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, on Monday announced that the federal government has retained 16 years as the minimum age requirement for admission into tertiary institutions across the country.

Alausa disclosed this during the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions to Tertiary Institutions held in Abuja, explaining that the decision followed wide-ranging consultations and policy evaluations involving major stakeholders in the education sector.

He stated that the policy was intended to maintain a balance between ensuring academic preparedness and promoting inclusiveness within Nigeria’s tertiary education system.

“Following extensive consultations and policy reviews, the government has maintained sixteen (16) years as the minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions.

“This position reflects a careful balance between inclusivity and academic readiness,” he said.

The minister noted that although the government acknowledges the presence of exceptionally gifted students who may satisfy academic requirements before the approved age, such situations would only be considered under strict regulations.

“While we recognise the existence of exceptionally gifted individuals, such cases must be treated within clearly defined and rigorously enforced guidelines to preserve the integrity of the system as a whole,” Alausa added.

According to him, the framework is designed to ensure that early admissions do not undermine the level of maturity and preparedness expected for tertiary education.

He further announced adjustments to admission policies affecting certain disciplines, particularly Education and Agriculture-related courses, where candidates may now enjoy more flexible admission considerations under the revised framework.

The development formed part of broader discussions at the policy meeting, which also focused on admission procedures, institutional quotas, and cut-off marks for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.