The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has adjusted the schedule for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), shifting the arrival time for first-session candidates to 7:00 a.m.
In an official notice, the board stated that the new time replaces the earlier 6:30 a.m. schedule. However, the examination start time remains unchanged at 8:30 a.m., with the session expected to end by 10:30 a.m.
JAMB clarified that candidates do not need to reprint their examination slips, as the adjustment will automatically reflect across all centres. The revised timetable applies nationwide and covers all exam days.
The UTME, a key requirement for admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, is scheduled to hold from April 16 to April 25, 2026.
Change Driven by Safety, Logistics Concerns
According to the board, the adjustment follows feedback from candidates and parents who raised concerns about early morning travel, safety risks, and logistical challenges.
Many candidates previously struggled to arrive at centres before dawn, especially those traveling from distant locations. The new 7:00 a.m. arrival time is expected to ease these pressures while still allowing sufficient time for biometric verification and pre-exam procedures.
JAMB also reiterated the importance of punctuality, warning that late arrival could lead to disqualification, as strict security and accreditation processes must be completed before each session begins.
Education experts say the change reflects JAMB’s effort to improve the overall examination experience and reduce stress for candidates. However, they also advised students to plan ahead, arrive early, and strictly follow all guidelines.
As preparations intensify nationwide, the updated schedule is expected to improve coordination at Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres and ensure a smoother examination process for millions of candidates.
