JAMB 2026 Mock Exam: Complete Preparation Guide for March 28

The 2026 JAMB Mock Exam is scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2026. This practice test helps candidates experience the actual UTME environment before the main examination in April. Whether you should register for it and how to prepare are questions many candidates face.

What is the JAMB Mock Exam?

The JAMB Mock Exam is an optional practice test that simulates the actual UTME experience. It uses the same CBT format, timing, and question structure as the real examination. Candidates take their mock at actual CBT centres under exam-like conditions.

Unlike practice tests at home, the mock exam puts you in a real exam environment with other candidates, invigilators, and the pressure of timed computer-based testing.

Key Dates and Fees for 2026

How to Register for the Mock Exam

Registration for the mock exam happens during your UTME registration. You cannot add the mock exam later if you initially registered without it.

Registration Steps

1. Generate your profile code by sending your NIN to 55019 or 66019
2. Purchase the e-PIN category that includes mock (₦8,700 total)
3. Complete registration at an accredited CBT centre
4. Select the mock exam option during registration
5. Collect your mock exam slip showing your venue and time

The e-PIN vending began January 19, 2026, and UTME registration runs from January 26 to February 28, 2026. If you want the mock exam, ensure you purchase the correct e-PIN category from the start.

Why You Should Take the Mock Exam

1. Experience the Real Exam Environment

Home practice cannot replicate the pressure of sitting in a hall with other candidates, navigating unfamiliar computers, and managing time under supervision. The mock provides this experience before it counts.

2. Identify Your Weak Points

Mock exam results reveal which subjects and topics need more attention. You get three weeks between the mock (March 28) and the main exam (starting April 16) to address these gaps.

3. Reduce Exam Day Anxiety

First-time CBT examinees often struggle with computer navigation, time management, and exam hall pressure. Having done it once during the mock, the real exam feels more familiar.

4. Test Your Technical Readiness

Some candidates discover during the mock that they need more keyboard practice or struggle with on-screen reading. Better to discover this with time to improve.

What to Expect on Mock Exam Day

Before the Exam

• Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time
• Bring your mock exam slip and a valid ID
• Dress appropriately (no caps, hoodies, or clothing that could conceal devices)
• Leave phones and electronic devices at home or with a trusted person outside

During the Exam

• You will have 2 hours to answer 180 questions across 4 subjects
• Questions appear on screen one at a time or in sets
• You can navigate between questions using keyboard or mouse
• A timer shows remaining time throughout
• Submit before time expires or answers auto-submit when time ends

After the Exam

• Results are typically available within days
• Mock scores do not affect your UTME admission
• Use results to guide your final weeks of preparation

How to Prepare for the Mock Exam

Start with Past Questions

JAMB questions often repeat patterns and topics. Study past questions from the last 10 years for each of your subjects. Focus on understanding the reasoning behind correct answers, not just memorizing them.

Practice Under Timed Conditions

Set a timer when practicing. The actual exam gives you roughly 40 seconds per question on average. Build this pacing into your practice so it becomes automatic.

Use CBT Practice Platforms

Paper-based practice only goes so far. Computer-based practice builds familiarity with on-screen reading, digital navigation, and the specific experience of clicking through questions.

Ulearngo's JAMB practice platform provides thousands of past questions in CBT format with timed sessions and detailed explanations for each answer.

Focus on Your Weakest Subject

Most candidates have one subject that lags behind the others. Give this subject extra attention in the weeks before the mock. Raising a weak subject from 30 to 50 points often produces more score improvement than pushing a strong subject from 70 to 80.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

During Registration

• Wrong e-PIN purchase: Buying the ₦7,200 e-PIN means no mock exam option
• Late registration: Don't wait until the deadline; technical issues happen
• Incorrect information: Verify all details before submission

During the Exam

• Spending too long on difficult questions: Mark and move on; return later if time permits
• Not reviewing answers: If you finish early, check your work
• Panic when computer glitches: Raise your hand calmly; invigilators can help

After the Exam

• Ignoring mock results: The score shows you exactly what needs work
• Becoming overconfident: A good mock score doesn't guarantee UTME success without continued preparation
• Giving up after poor performance: You have three weeks to improve before the real exam

Is the Mock Exam Worth the Extra ₦1,500?

The value depends on your situation. Consider taking the mock if:

• This is your first time taking a computer-based exam
• You want to experience the real exam environment before it counts
• You need feedback on which subjects require more attention
• You tend to feel anxious during high-stakes tests

You might skip it if:

• You've successfully taken CBT exams before (WAEC, Post-UTME)
• You're very confident in your preparation and computer skills
• The ₦1,500 would be better spent on study materials

For most candidates, especially first-time UTME takers, the mock exam provides valuable experience that justifies the additional cost.

Timeline: Mock to UTME

Use the gap between the mock and main exam strategically:

Resources for Preparation

• JAMB Syllabus: Download from JAMB IBASS portal for your specific subjects
• CBT Practice: Ulearngo JAMB Practice with timed sessions and explanations
• Official Updates: Monitor JAMB official website for announcements

Final Advice

The mock exam is practice, not prediction. A low mock score means you found your weak points with time to fix them. A high mock score means your preparation is on track, not that you can stop studying.

Treat March 28 as a learning opportunity. The real test comes in April, and the mock exists to help you perform better when it matters.