The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has introduced a key schedule replace. It impacts candidates sitting the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Notably, the change comes simply days earlier than the examination begins.
Why JAMB Made the Change
The adjustment follows complaints about early arrival occasions and logistical challenges reported throughout earlier examinations and mock periods. Moreover, the revision was made in response to considerations raised by candidates and fogeys over early morning journey challenges, together with security dangers and transportation difficulties. In response to those considerations, JAMB acted swiftly to push again the reporting time. Consequently, the board communicated the replace by means of its official X (previously Twitter) deal with on Monday.
The New Arrival Time and What Has Modified
In an official discover, JAMB said that candidates scheduled for the primary session are actually anticipated to reach at their examination centres by 7:00 a.m., as an alternative of the sooner communicated 6:30 a.m.
“Consideration 2026 UTME Candidates: That is to inform you of a slight adjustment to the arrival scheduled time, notably for the primary session, which is now 7:00am as towards the sooner revealed 6:30am, whereas the scheduled begin time for the session is now 8:30 am and finish time 10:30 am.”
Moreover, the clarification is a part of JAMB’s effort to streamline candidate motion into CBT centres and cut back congestion throughout biometric verification and accreditation.
Full Session Timetable: Monday to Friday
In keeping with the revised schedule, 4 periods shall be performed each day between Monday and Thursday. The primary session requires candidates to reach by 7:00 a.m., with examinations operating from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The second session begins at 11:00 a.m. and ends at 1:00 p.m., whereas the third runs from 1:30 p.m. to three:30 p.m. The ultimate session of the day is slated for 4:00 p.m. to six:00 p.m.
On Fridays, nonetheless, there’s a notable distinction. The timetable stays largely the identical, aside from the third session, which has been marked as “reserved.” This implies solely three lively periods shall be held on that day, with the reserved slot meant for contingencies or administrative functions.
No Have to Reprint Your Examination Slip
Importantly, candidates mustn’t panic concerning the change. The board was clear and reassuring on this level. In its discover, JAMB said:
“Please observe that you needn’t reprint your slip. Thanks.”
Due to this fact, the adjustment doesn’t have an effect on different particulars already offered on the examination slip. Candidates are suggested to easily be aware of the brand new arrival time mentally.
Examination Dates and Remaining Reminders
The 2026 UTME is scheduled to carry from Thursday, April 16 to Saturday, April 25, 2026. In the meantime, JAMB has constantly suggested candidates to reach solely on the actual time indicated for his or her periods and to keep away from late arrival, warning that lacking accreditation home windows might have an effect on their skill to take a seat for the examination.
In abstract, all 2026 UTME candidates, particularly these in Session 1 ought to replace their plans accordingly. The examination is simply days away. Arriving on time, with the right paperwork, stays completely important.
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