JAMB, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, is the regulatory body for the examination process required for admission into Nigerian higher institutions.
It serves as a central authority for the admission of students into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
The board conducts the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) annually, and its results are a key factor in the admission process.
If you’re preparing to write the JAMB exam, you likely have many questions about the process, requirements, and general information regarding the exams.
This article answers the top frequently asked questions about JAMB to help guide you through your preparation and ensure you’re fully informed.
What Is the Eligibility for JAMB?
To be eligible to sit for the JAMB exam, candidates must have completed their secondary education (SSCE) or its equivalent.
This includes having at least five credits in subjects relevant to the course of study in the UTME.
The candidates must also be at least 16 years of age by the year of the exam, and it is mandatory for candidates to provide their National Identification Number (NIN) during registration.
How Do I Register for JAMB?
Registration for the JAMB UTME is an entirely online process. To register, candidates must visit the official JAMB website and create a profile.
You will be required to purchase a registration PIN from designated banks or approved agents.
Once you have the PIN, you can complete your registration by filling in your personal details, selecting your preferred examination center, and uploading your passport photograph.
It is important to double-check all details to avoid any errors that may affect your registration.
How Much Is JAMB Registration?
The cost of JAMB registration varies slightly every year, but the typical registration fee for the UTME is around ₦3,500.
This fee covers the cost of the exam, your e-slip, and other essential materials.
Additionally, candidates should budget for other expenses such as the National Identity Number (NIN) enrolment, as well as the cost of the textbook for the UTME subjects, which can be purchased from approved vendors.
When Will JAMB Exam Take Place?
The date of the JAMB UTME is usually announced several months in advance.
The exam typically occurs between March and April each year, but candidates should regularly check the official JAMB website for updates.
The exact dates and venues are communicated through the JAMB portal, and it is important to adhere to these announcements.
What Subjects Are Covered in JAMB?
The subjects you take in the JAMB UTME depend on the course you wish to study in your desired institution.
The four main subjects include: English Language (which is compulsory), along with three other subjects that are relevant to your chosen course.
For instance, science students might take Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry, while arts students may have Literature in English, History, and Government.
Ensure that you verify the subject requirements for your intended course before registration.
How Can I Prepare for JAMB?
Effective preparation for JAMB involves studying the recommended syllabus, practicing past questions, and using revision materials from trusted sources.
The JAMB syllabus outlines the topics you need to study, so make sure you review it thoroughly.
Additionally, many candidates choose to attend preparatory classes or use online resources like JAMB CBT practice software, which simulates the actual exam experience.
How Long Does the JAMB Exam Last?
The JAMB UTME typically lasts for about 2 hours.
The exam is computer-based, meaning that it is administered through a computerized testing system, and candidates are required to answer multiple-choice questions within the allotted time.
Each candidate is assigned a unique time slot to prevent overcrowding at exam centers.
How Can I Check My JAMB Results?
JAMB results are released shortly after the exam, and you can check them through the JAMB website.
You will need to log in with your registration number and PIN to access your result.
JAMB also sends results to candidates via SMS to the phone numbers provided during registration.
If you need a printed copy of your result, you can obtain it from any JAMB office or use the print option on the JAMB portal.
How Do I Apply for Admission After JAMB?
After successfully writing JAMB and receiving your results, the next step is to apply for admission through the institutions of your choice.
Many universities and polytechnics use the JAMB score in conjunction with their internal post-UTME exams or screening processes.
You will also need to upload your O’level results and any other necessary documents to the Central Admission Processing System (CAPS) on the JAMB portal.
Always check the specific admission requirements of your chosen institutions to ensure you meet their criteria.