10 Critical Things JAMB 2025 UTME Candidates Must Remember Before Exam Day

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Summary

10 critical reminders for JAMB 2025 UTME candidates: from printing slips early to arriving on time. What you must know before April 24-May 5 exam period.

The 2025 JAMB UTME examination begins April 24 and runs through May 5. With thousands of candidates preparing for this crucial exam, remembering key details and requirements can make the difference between success and disqualification. Here's what you absolutely cannot afford to forget.

1. Print Your Exam Slip Early

Your exam slip became available for printing on April 19, 2025. Don't wait until the last minute.

Why this matters: Your slip contains your exam date, time, centre location, and registration details. Without it, you cannot enter the exam hall.

How to print:

2. Locate Your Exam Centre in Advance

Knowing your centre's address isn't enough. You need to physically locate it before exam day.

Why this matters: Getting lost on exam day causes panic and lateness. Late arrivals are turned away without exception.

Action required: Visit your centre 1-2 days before your exam date to confirm the location and plan your route.

3. Arrive at Least One Hour Early

JAMB requires arrival one hour before your scheduled exam time for:

  • Document verification
  • Biometric thumbprint confirmation
  • Seating assignment
  • Computer system login

Critical rule: Missing your time slot means missing the entire exam. There are no rescheduling options or second chances.

4. Know What Items Are Prohibited

The following items will get you disqualified:

  • Mobile phones (even if switched off)
  • Smartwatches or any wristwatches
  • Calculators (not needed for any subject)
  • Books, notes, or written materials
  • Bags or purses
  • Electronic devices of any kind

What you should bring:

  • Your printed exam slip
  • Valid identification (with your photograph)
  • Your biometric thumbprint (obviously)

5. Understand the CBT Format

If you've never taken a computer-based test, the format can be confusing:

  • Questions appear on-screen, one at a time or in batches
  • You click answers using a mouse
  • You can skip questions and return to them later
  • A timer shows remaining time
  • You must submit before time expires

Practice tip: Use Ulearngo's CBT practice platform to familiarize yourself with the interface before exam day.

6. Manage Your Time During the Exam

You have 2 hours to answer questions across four subjects:

  • English Language
  • Your three chosen subjects

Time strategy: Aim for 30 minutes per subject. Don't spend too long on difficult questions—mark them for review and move on.

7. Take Care of Your Physical Health

Exam performance isn't just about knowledge:

The Night Before

  • Sleep at least 7-8 hours
  • Avoid late-night cramming that disrupts sleep
  • Prepare clothes and documents the evening before

Exam Day Morning

  • Eat a proper breakfast (not too heavy, not too light)
  • Drink water but not excessively (bathroom breaks waste exam time)
  • Avoid caffeine if it makes you jittery

8. Remember Your Biometric Requirement

JAMB uses thumbprint verification to confirm your identity. This happens:

  • When entering the exam hall
  • Before starting the computer-based test

Important: If your thumbprint was captured during registration, you must use the same thumb. Ink or stains on your thumb can cause verification failures—keep your hands clean.

9. Understand the Penalty for Missing Your Exam

Unlike school exams, JAMB has zero tolerance for missed appointments:

  • No rescheduling if you're late
  • No makeup exams for any reason
  • No refunds if you miss your slot
  • You'll have to wait until next year and register again

This is why arriving early and locating your centre in advance are non-negotiable.

10. Stay Calm and Focused

Anxiety affects performance. On exam day:

  • Take deep breaths if you feel panicked
  • Remember that you've prepared for this
  • Read each question carefully before answering
  • Don't let difficult questions derail your confidence
  • Trust your preparation

Results Timeline

JAMB results will be released on Wednesday, May 7, 2025—two days after the exam period ends. You'll check results using your registration number on the JAMB website.

Final Checklist

The day before your exam:

  • ✅ Exam slip printed and stored safely
  • ✅ Valid ID prepared
  • ✅ Centre location confirmed
  • ✅ Transport arranged
  • ✅ Departure time calculated (with buffer)
  • ✅ Clothes and documents ready
  • ✅ Phone and watch left at home
  • ✅ Good night's sleep planned

Source: JAMB official guidelines and exam preparation resources, April 2025

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