JAMB: Quick, Practical Guide to Registering, Preparing and Checking Your UTME

Taking JAMB soon? Don’t panic. Focus on a few key steps and you’ll move from confused to confident. This guide covers what to do before, during and after the exam so you avoid common mistakes and get better results.

Before You Register

First, use the official JAMB portal and only go to accredited CBT centres. You’ll need a valid ID, a passport photo, your O'Level details (WAEC/NECO) and an active phone number. Pick UTME subjects that match the course you want — picking unrelated subjects wastes your score and limits admissions.

When paying, confirm the payment option on the portal and keep receipts. Scams are common: if someone asks for your password or bank details, walk away. Double-check the centre’s accreditation number before you book a slot.

How to Study Smart

Study the official JAMB syllabus for each subject — it tells you exactly what can be tested. Do past questions under timed conditions; that’s the closest thing to the real exam. Break study time into focused blocks (45–60 minutes) with short breaks. Tackle weak topics first, then polish the strong ones.

Practice on a computer so you’re used to the CBT format: clicking answers, navigating questions, flagging items to review. Learn time management — aim to finish with 10–15 minutes to review flagged questions. Avoid cramming the night before; get good sleep instead.

Use simple resources: the syllabus, past question booklets, short topic videos, and one or two reliable tutors if you need help. Too many books can confuse you — pick what works and stick with it.

On exam day, get to the centre early, carry your ID and printed registration slip, and follow the centre rules. Read every question carefully and answer what you know first. Don’t spend too long on a single question — mark it and return later.

After the test, check your result on the official JAMB result portal using your registration number. If something looks wrong, use the portal’s support channels and keep your evidence ready (slips, screenshots, payment receipts).

Cut-off scores change by school and course. Use past years’ cut-offs as a guide, but know institutions set their own. If your score falls short, consider changing course to a related programme with lower cut-off or look into direct entry options.

When offers start, monitor JAMB CAPS (Central Admission Processing System). Accept or reject offers quickly to avoid losing your place. If you get an admission, print the admission letter and follow the school’s admission checklist — registration fees, medicals, and required documents.

Final tip: stay calm and focused. Small daily improvements — regular practice tests, steady revision, and disciplined timing — beat last-minute panic. If you need help, ask teachers or trusted tutors and always use official JAMB channels for payments and result checks.