JAMB Commences 2026 Mock UTME Nationwide
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially kicked off its 2026 examination cycle with the successful conduct of the Mock Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) across the country on Saturday, March 28, 2026.
A total of 227,896 candidates registered and expressed interest in the mock exercise, underscoring its growing popularity as a vital preparatory tool for the main UTME.
JAMB Issues Stern Warning to Absentees
Prior to the examination, JAMB warned candidates who registered for the mock but failed to appear. The Board stressed that indicating interest in the mock automatically reserves a limited slot, and absenteeism deprives other willing candidates of the opportunity to participate.
JAMB made it clear that while the mock remains optional, failure to honour the commitment after securing a slot will attract appropriate sanctions. Candidates have been urged to take their registration seriously and fulfil their obligations.
Objectives of the Mock UTME
Introduced in 2017 by JAMB Registrar, Professor Is-haq Oloyede, the mock UTME aims to:
- Familiarise candidates with the Computer-Based Test (CBT) format
- Reduce examination anxiety
- Provide mental and technical preparation for the main UTME
- Allow JAMB to test its systems, infrastructure, and personnel ahead of the actual examination
The exercise serves as both a valuable practice opportunity for candidates and a full-scale rehearsal for the Board.
Mixed Experiences at CBT Centres
Reports from various centres showed a combination of smooth operations and isolated technical challenges. At a centre in Kurudu, Abuja, some candidates encountered system malfunctions and timeouts, while a few faced biometric verification issues (though most were resolved after intervention).
On a positive note, many candidates reported seamless verification and smooth exam sessions. Parents and stakeholders commended JAMB’s ongoing improvements but advised the Board to thoroughly analyse feedback from candidates and CBT operators nationwide, then implement corrective measures before the main UTME.
Extended Duration for Better Preparation
In a notable change for 2026, JAMB extended the mock UTME duration from the usual 2 hours to 4 hours. The examination was held in two consecutive sessions:
- First Session: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Second Session: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
This adjustment was designed to give candidates deeper exposure to the CBT environment, better timing management, and stronger familiarity with the exam structure.
Looking Ahead
Despite minor challenges, the 2026 Mock UTME demonstrates JAMB’s commitment to refining the examination process and equipping candidates for success.
Candidates are strongly advised to:
- Treat mock exercises with seriousness
- Arrive early at their designated centres
- Remain calm and focused
With the lessons learnt from today’s exercise, candidates who prepare diligently stand a much better chance of performing excellently in the main UTME.
