The Federal Government of Nigeria has set 16 years as the minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa.
The new policy sets 16 years as the minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions, and this benchmark is non-negotiable.
According to the Minister, any admission conducted outside the Central Admission Processing System (CAPS) will be considered illegal, and perpetrators will face prosecution.
CAPS ensures transparency and fairness in the admission process.
The minister cautioned vice chancellors, rectors, and provosts against admission racketeering, emphasizing that violating guidelines will attract serious legal consequences.
The decision aims to align students’ cognitive development with academic demands, ensuring a balance between maturity and preparedness.
Meanwhile, gifted students who have advanced academically ahead of their age group may be considered for admission, but such cases must be clearly documented and justified.