The results of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), as disclosed by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), reveal a concerning trend, with over 75% of candidates scoring below 200.
Out of a total of 1,955,069 candidates who sat for the exam, only 420,415 managed to score above 200, leaving the majority with results that raise questions about the quality of preparation and education leading up to the exam.
The release of the statistical analysis on Monday highlighted that the performance level of candidates in the 2025 UTME was markedly lower compared to previous years.
With less than 1% of candidates scoring above 300, the data has sparked concerns about the adequacy of the current education system and the readiness of students for tertiary education.
JAMB also provided further details about certain aspects of the examination process, including special provisions for underage candidates.
According to the board, 40,247 underage candidates were allowed to demonstrate their skills, but only 467 of them (approximately 1.16%) managed to achieve scores deemed worthy of “exceptional ability.”
These candidates’ performance will be evaluated in subsequent stages, though the outcome of these evaluations remains to be seen.
The integrity of the examination process is also under scrutiny, with 97 candidates flagged for engaging in examination infractions.
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An additional 2,157 candidates are currently under investigation for suspected malpractice. In response to these issues, JAMB has vowed to thoroughly investigate the matters and take appropriate action where necessary.
A significant number of candidates, totaling 71,701, were absent on exam day, and some candidates faced biometric challenges, which are currently under investigation.
Those who are cleared will be rescheduled for future examinations.
JAMB also noted that certain candidates’ results, including those of blind candidates and others in the JEOG (Joint Educational Opportunity Group), are still being processed.
The board has announced that a press conference will be held later this week to provide further details on individual results and facilitate the process for result checking, as candidates eagerly await clarification on their performance.
The mixed performance and a high percentage of low scores underscore the challenges facing students and the education sector, sparking calls for a closer examination of the UTME system and the wider educational framework in the country.