“2025 UTME Result: Underage and Underperformed” — What It Means and What to Do

A few candidates, including Ongharaka Success, have reported receiving a message from JAMB that reads:

“2025 UTME Result: Underage and Underperformed.”

If you received this message after sending “UTMERESULT” to 55019 (or 66019), you may be confused or even worried. Here’s what it means — and what you should know moving forward.

What Does “Underage and Underperformed” Mean?

This message means two things:

1. Underage

JAMB has confirmed that candidates must be at least 16 years old by September 30, 2025, to be eligible for admission into any Nigerian university or tertiary institution.

If you were below 16 as of that date, you are classified as underage, even if you took the exam.

However, JAMB made a special exception this year: over 40,000 underage candidates were allowed to take the UTME for learning and performance purposes only. It does not guarantee admission.

2. Underperformed

JAMB had a benchmark for underage candidates to prove “exceptional ability.” If you scored below the required threshold (usually around 280–300), JAMB may flag your result as “underperformed” — meaning your score didn’t meet the level that would allow further evaluation despite your age status.

So in simple terms, your message means:

• You are not yet 16 years old (as required by JAMB’s policy)
• Your UTME score is not high enough to be considered for any exceptional admission consideration

Can You Still Get Admission?

Unfortunately, no — not this year.

JAMB has clearly stated that candidates below 16 cannot be offered admission into any institution in Nigeria unless they meet all three of the following:

• They are at least 16 years old by September 30, 2025
• They score 280 or above in UTME
• They perform excellently in WAEC/NECO and post-UTME, if applicable

If you didn’t meet these conditions, you will need to wait until you’re of age and try again next year.

What Should You Do Now?

1. Don’t panic — You’ve gained valuable experience that will help you perform even better next time.
2. Focus on your WAEC/NECO exams if you’re still in secondary school.
3. Prepare early for JAMB 2026, and by then, you’ll be fully eligible for admission.

Final Words

Receiving “Underage and Underperformed” doesn’t mean you’re not intelligent. It simply means you’re a bit early in the system and will have a better shot next year when you meet all the requirements.

If you’re in this category, you’re not alone — over 40,000 underage candidates wrote the UTME this year. Many will return stronger and better prepared.

Still confused? Share your age, JAMB score, and experience in the comment section. We’re here to help guide you.