JAMB 2025 Examination: A Detailed Guide to the UTME Process

JAMB 2025 Examination: A Detailed Guide to the UTME Process

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) plays a pivotal role in Nigeria’s tertiary education system by organizing the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). This exam is a crucial stepping stone for students aspiring to gain admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and other tertiary institutions. The 2025 UTME continues to set standards for evaluating candidates’ readiness for higher education. Below is a comprehensive guide covering every aspect of the examination process.

1. Registration Process

Registration for the JAMB 2025 UTME will run from January 15, 2025, to February 26, 2025. During this period, prospective candidates are required to complete the following steps:

– Registration starts: Wednesday, January 15th, 2025.
– Registration deadline: Wednesday, February 26th, 2025.
– Mock exam date: Friday, March 7th, 2025.
– Mock slip reprinting: Thursday, April 10th, 2025.
– Examination dates: April 18th-28th, 2025.
– Result release: Wednesday, April 30th, 2025.

1. Profile Creation:
   • Candidates must create a JAMB profile, which is now linked to their National Identification Number (NIN).
   • Send your NIN via SMS to 55019 or 66019 to receive your unique profile code.
2. Purchase of E-PIN:
   • The e-PIN can be purchased from designated banks, POS outlets, Mobile Money Operators, and JAMB-accredited centers. Payment can also be made through online platforms such as Remita.
3. Registration at CBT Centers:
   • Visit any JAMB-accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) center to complete your registration.
   • Provide your profile code, upload a recent passport photograph, and biometric data will be captured.
   • Choose your preferred examination town and input your O’Level or awaiting result status.
4. Registration Fee:
   • For Nigerians: ₦3,500 (excluding service charges).
   • For Foreigners: $20.
   • Candidates opting for the mock exam will pay an additional ₦1,000.

JAMB 2025 Examination: A Detailed Guide to the UTME Process

2. Mock Examination

• The optional Mock Exam will take place on March 7, 2025.
• This serves as a preparatory test for candidates unfamiliar with the computer-based format.
• Candidates must indicate their interest during registration and pay the stipulated fee.

3. Examination Format

The 2025 UTME is a computer-based test that evaluates candidates’ knowledge and skills in four subjects. Key details include:

1. Subjects:
   • English Language (Compulsory): Includes questions on comprehension, grammar, sentence completion, and the prescribed novel.
   • Three Other Subjects: These must align with the candidate’s chosen field of study. For example:
     • Science students: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, or Mathematics.
     • Art students: Literature, Government, or CRS.
     • Commercial students: Economics, Commerce, or Accounting.
2. Duration:
   • The exam lasts for 2 hours.
   • Candidates must answer 180 questions (Use of English: 60 questions; Other subjects: 40 questions each).
3. Marking Scheme:
   • The UTME scores are based on the number of correct answers. The total score is 400.

4. Key Resources for Preparation

1. Compulsory Novel:
   • The novel for the 2025 UTME is The Life Changer by Khadija A. Jalli. This book will feature prominently in the Use of English paper.
2. JAMB Syllabus:
   • The official syllabus outlines the topics and areas of focus for each subject. Candidates are encouraged to download it from the JAMB website.
3. Past Questions:
   • Solving past questions gives insight into the exam pattern, common topics, and time management strategies.
4. Practice with CBT Software:
   • Candidates can use CBT practice tools to simulate the examination environment and improve their confidence.

5. Examination Guidelines

1. Reprinting of Examination Slips:
   • Candidates must reprint their examination slips starting April 10, 2025, to know their exact exam date, time, and center.
2. Items to Bring to the Exam Hall:
   • JAMB registration slip (printed in color).
   • A valid ID card.
   • No electronic devices, such as phones, calculators, or smartwatches, are allowed.
3. Biometric Verification:
   • Candidates must undergo biometric verification before entering the exam hall. Failure to comply may lead to disqualification.

6. Examination Dates

• The UTME is scheduled to run from April 18 to April 28, 2025.
• Candidates are assigned dates and sessions (morning or afternoon) based on their registration.

7. Post-Examination Process

1. Result Release:
   • Results are typically released within 48 hours after the exam. Candidates can check their results by:
     • Visiting the JAMB result portal.
     • Sending “RESULT” to 55019 or 66019 via SMS.
2. Cut-Off Marks:
   • JAMB will announce the minimum cut-off marks for various institutions after the results are released. Institutions may also set their cut-off marks above JAMB’s minimum.
3. Post-UTME Screening:
   • Candidates who meet the cut-off marks will proceed to the Post-UTME/screening stage conducted by their chosen institutions.
   • The NEW POST UTME SCREENING SYSTEM.
     O Level Result:- 40%
     Breakdown
     A1-8%
     B2-7%
     B3-6%
     C4-5%
     C5-4%
     C6-3%

     Five A1-40%
     Five B2-35%
     Five B3-30%
     Five C4-25%
     Five C5-20%
     Five C6-15%

     UTME Scores-60%
     180-189 = 10%
     190-199 = 20%
     200-209 = 30%
     210-219 = 40%
     220-229 = 50%
     230 & Above = 60%

8. Innovations and Security Measures

1. Use of NIN:
   • JAMB has integrated the National Identification Number (NIN) into the registration process to enhance security and eliminate multiple registrations.
2. CCTV Monitoring:
   • All accredited CBT centers are equipped with CCTV cameras to monitor and prevent examination malpractice.
3. Prohibited Items:
   • Items like flash drives, wristwatches, and writing materials are banned to ensure the integrity of the examination.

9. Tips for Candidates

1. Prepare Early:
   • Start studying early using recommended textbooks and the JAMB syllabus.
   • Focus on understanding concepts rather than cramming.
2. Take Mock Exams Seriously:
   • Use the mock exam as an opportunity to familiarize yourself with the CBT environment.
3. Stay Healthy and Rested:
   • Avoid over-stressing yourself before the exam. Eat healthily and get adequate sleep.
4. Arrive Early:
   • Arrive at your exam center at least an hour before the scheduled time to complete all verification processes.

10. Importance of the UTME

The JAMB UTME serves as a fair and standardized assessment for evaluating candidates’ readiness for tertiary education. It is also a significant determinant of a candidate’s admission into their chosen institution and course of study.

Conclusion

The JAMB 2025 examination is not just a test but a stepping stone for millions of Nigerian students. Proper preparation, adherence to guidelines, and utilizing available resources can help candidates achieve excellent results. As JAMB continues to innovate and uphold examination integrity, candidates are encouraged to remain focused and diligent throughout the process. For official updates and guidance, candidates should always refer to the JAMB official website.