As the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) draws closer, anxiety is beginning to build among candidates across Nigeria. For many students, JAMB is not just another exam. It is the gatekeeper to higher education and a major determinant of what comes next in their academic journey.
Every year, thousands of candidates fail not because they are not intelligent, but because they overlook some basic preparations. As the exam date approaches, here are three important things every JAMB candidate should put in place to avoid unnecessary mistakes and improve their chances of success.
1. A Clear and Realistic Study Plan
One of the biggest mistakes JAMB candidates make is studying without direction. Reading randomly or relying on last-minute cramming rarely works, especially with JAMB’s CBT format and time pressure.
At this stage, candidates should have a simple but realistic study plan. This means knowing the subjects you registered for, identifying your weak areas, and allocating time to each subject daily. Instead of trying to read everything at once, focus on key topics from the JAMB syllabus and past questions.
Past questions are especially important. JAMB often repeats questions or tests similar concepts in different ways. Practising past questions helps you understand how questions are structured and how to manage time during the exam.
A good study plan does not mean studying all day without rest. Short, focused study sessions with breaks in between are more effective than long, exhausting hours that lead to burnout.
2. Familiarity With the CBT System
JAMB is a computer-based test, yet many candidates still walk into the exam hall without proper knowledge of how the system works. This alone has caused many avoidable failures.
Before the exam, candidates should practise using CBT software. This helps you understand how to select answers, move between questions, use the timer, and submit your exam correctly. Being familiar with the system reduces panic and saves valuable time on the exam day.
Candidates should also practise reading questions carefully on a screen, not just on paper. Some students struggle because they are not used to reading long passages or solving calculations on a computer.
If possible, attend a CBT centre for practice tests or use trusted online CBT platforms. Confidence with the system can make a big difference in your final score.
3. Proper Exam-Day Arrangements
As simple as it sounds, many candidates fail or miss their exams due to poor planning on the exam day itself. Issues like arriving late, forgetting important documents, or going to the wrong centre happen every year.
Candidates should print their JAMB examination slip early and confirm their exam date, time, and centre. Visit the centre before the exam day if possible, especially if it is far from your home. This helps you plan transportation and avoid delays.
On the exam day, arrive early. JAMB centres are strict, and latecomers are often not allowed in. Ensure you carry only what is allowed, such as your exam slip, and avoid prohibited items like phones, calculators, or smart devices.
Also, take care of your health. Get enough rest the night before, eat light, and stay calm. A tired or anxious mind can affect performance, no matter how well you prepared.
To Conclude…
As JAMB gets closer, preparation should go beyond reading books. A clear study plan, familiarity with the CBT system, and proper exam-day arrangements are just as important as knowing your subjects.
Candidates who put these three things in place stand a better chance of performing well and avoiding the common mistakes that hold others back. JAMB may be competitive, but with the right preparation, it does not have to be overwhelming.
For students writing UTME this year, the time to act is now.
