Board introduces stricter arrival schedule as over 2 million candidates prepare for nationwide exam
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has introduced a stricter arrival time policy for candidates sitting the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), warning that failure to comply could jeopardize participation in the exercise.
Under the new directive, candidates are required to arrive at their Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres well before their scheduled examination time, with each candidate assigned a specific arrival slot indicated on their notification slip.
A Shift from Exam Time to Arrival Time
Unlike previous years where emphasis was placed mainly on the exam start time, JAMB’s updated system now prioritizes early arrival for accreditation and verification processes.
Each candidate’s notification slip now clearly states:
Examination date
Venue
Designated arrival time (separate from exam time)
Officials say the move is aimed at eliminating the last-minute rush that has historically disrupted exam schedules across centres.
Why JAMB Made the Change
According to the board, the adjustment is a direct response to operational challenges observed during the mock UTME and previous exams.
Key objectives include:
Streamlining biometric verification to prevent impersonation
Reducing overcrowding at CBT centres
Ensuring timely commencement of exam sessions
Improving overall coordination across thousands of centres nationwide
With more than 2 million candidates expected, JAMB says tighter scheduling is essential to maintaining order and credibility.
Voices from Candidates
The new directive has sparked mixed reactions among candidates.
A prospective candidate in Lagos, Adebayo S., described the move as “stressful but necessary.”
“If coming early will prevent delays and technical issues, then it’s okay. But JAMB should also consider candidates coming from far distances,” he said.
Another candidate, Zainab Musa from Kano, expressed concern over logistics:
“Some of us travel long distances. Arriving hours early means extra cost and planning. It’s not easy for everyone.”
Expert Perspective
Education stakeholders, however, largely support the policy.
An Abuja-based education consultant noted that early arrival aligns with global best practices for standardized testing.
“What JAMB is doing is standard. International exams require candidates to report early for identity checks. It enhances transparency and reduces malpractice.”
Important Advisory to Candidates
JAMB has urged candidates to:
Print and carefully review their notification slips
Arrive at least 1–2 hours before their scheduled exam time
Visit their centres a day before the exam if possible
Avoid prohibited items, especially mobile phones
The board also reiterated its warning against fraud, stressing that no individual or agent can influence UTME scores.
Exam Timeline Remains Unchanged
Despite the adjustment in arrival procedures, JAMB confirmed that the 2026 UTME will still hold from April 16 to April 25, 2026, as earlier scheduled.
JAMB’s revised arrival policy signals a more disciplined and tightly managed examination system, placing greater responsibility on candidates to adhere strictly to instructions.
As the countdown to the UTME begins, one message stands clear:
getting to the centre early may be just as important as the exam itself.