JAMB Extends 2025 Admission Deadline for Public Universities: A Closer Look at the Decision and Its Implications
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has made a significant announcement that will impact aspiring students of public universities in Nigeria. In a recent development, the board has extended the deadline for the 2025 admission processes, providing additional time for candidates to secure their spots in these institutions.
The decision was announced by Dr. Fabian Benjamin, JAMB's spokesman, in a statement released to the media on Sunday. According to the statement, the extension is a response to certain urgent and compelling circumstances that have arisen.
The original deadline, set for Friday, October 31, 2025, was intended to allow public universities to conclude their admission processes, while also giving other tertiary institutions, such as private universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, time to complete their admissions ahead of the overall closing date of December 31, 2025.
However, JAMB has decided to extend the deadline to Monday, November 17, 2025, citing two key considerations:
Legal Disruptions: The board acknowledges an appeal from the Association of Nigerian Universities (AVCNU) regarding disruptions caused by a court order. This order, which directed the status quo on the 2025/2026 admission list, was only lifted on October 28, 2025, causing delays in the admission process.
Expanding Access: In line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, the National Universities Commission (NUC) released a list of 229 accredited programs for 37 universities on October 29, 2025. The admission schedules for these programs are currently being finalized, necessitating the extension to ensure a fair and inclusive process.
JAMB's decision to extend the deadline highlights its commitment to maintaining a seamless, transparent, and credible admission process that aligns with national education goals and institutional autonomy. The board emphasizes the importance of adhering to the new deadline to ensure a smooth transition for aspiring students.
This development serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of educational policies and the need for flexibility in the admission process. As students and institutions navigate this extension, it is crucial to stay informed and prepared for any further updates from JAMB and the relevant authorities.
