The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released a statistical analysis of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) results. The data reveals that a significant number of candidates scored below 200. According to JAMB, 1,955,069 candidates sat for the UTME. The board will hold a press conference to announce individual results and explain the checking process.

JAMB's data indicates that more than 1.5 million candidates scored below 200 out of 400. Specifically, 78% of the candidates scored below 200. Only 12,414 candidates (0.63%) scored above 300, while 420,415 candidates (22%) scored above 200.

In comparison, the 2024 UTME saw similar results, with only 8,000 candidates (0.5%) scoring above 300 and 24% scoring above 200. JAMB permitted 40,247 underage candidates to take the exam, but only 467 (1.16%) met the threshold for exceptional ability. Their performance in subsequent stages is pending.

JAMB reported that 97 candidates were involved in examination infractions, and 2,157 are under investigation for suspected malpractices. Additionally, 71,701 candidates were absent. Candidates facing biometric challenges are also under investigation, with those cleared to be rescheduled.

An educator and policy writer, Folaranmi Ajayi, analyzed the 2025 UTME results, highlighting systemic challenges in Nigeria’s education system. Ajayi noted that a large number of students scored in the mid-range, with few reaching top scores. He urged stakeholders to take shared responsibility for improving student performance. Only 0.63% scored above 300, which highlights the need for education reform.

Ajayi suggested earlier preparation, more engaging teaching methods, improved access to learning tools, proper guidance for students, and a better exam process. He emphasized that the education system is a shared responsibility involving students, parents, teachers, the government, and the media.

A Nigerian man, Samuel Benedict, shared his personal struggles to gain admission to study law. He took the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) six times before passing mathematics with a credit. He also took the UTME three times, scoring 215 on his third attempt, which allowed him to study law at the University of Maiduguri and become a lawyer.

The Akwa Ibom state commissioner for education, Professor Ubong Essien Umoh, commended JAMB for its management of the UTME 2025. He observed the well-managed and coordinated examination process during an unscheduled visit to an ICT center.

JAMB is also preparing to prosecute over 60 individuals for misconduct during the UTME 2025, according to the registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede.