The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has reassured prospective candidates that no student will be required to sit for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) outside their state of registration and residence.
This assurance was given by Dr. Fabian Benjamin, JAMB’s Public Communication Advisor, during a phone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja.
Dr. Benjamin addressed concerns raised after some candidates were assigned to mock examination centers outside their state of residence. He clarified that the irregularity applied only to the mock exam phase and was due to limited availability of Computer-Based Test (CBT) centers.
“If centres for mock in Abuja are filled up and there were available centres in Nasarawa State, candidates will be sent there,” he explained. “This is not likely to happen in the main examination because all accredited centres will be operational.”
He emphasized that such assignments were temporary and logistical, affecting only the mock test, which serves as a dry run for the main UTME.
Why It Happened
According to JAMB, only a select number of CBT centres were designated for the mock exams, limiting flexibility for candidate placement. However, for the main UTME—which begins on April 25, 2025—all registered centres across states will be open, ensuring candidates are not required to travel outside their state.
The board also noted that candidates who register early have better chances of being posted to centres closer to their homes. Once a centre within a candidate’s immediate vicinity fills up, others within the same state may be assigned.
Mock Exam Hiccups and Lessons
Dr. Benjamin acknowledged the challenges some candidates faced during the recent mock exam, including delays and technical hitches. He attributed these disruptions to the implementation of new features designed to improve the integrity and efficiency of the UTME process.
“The mock examination serves as a trial version of the UTME, allowing the board to test new innovations while helping candidates familiarise themselves with the CBT environment,” he said.
While expressing regret over any inconvenience caused, JAMB reiterated that such trial runs are crucial for stress-testing systems and giving candidates a feel of the real examination environment.
Looking Ahead
With the main UTME scheduled to kick off on April 25, JAMB has called on all candidates to remain focused and committed to ensuring a smooth experience.
“JAMB urges all candidates to continue making the necessary sacrifices to ensure a better examination experience that effectively serves their interests,” Dr. Benjamin added.
As final preparations unfold, JAMB has reaffirmed its commitment to fairness, access, and improved service delivery for millions of Nigerian students seeking admission into tertiary institutions.
