The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released an important update on the 2026 UTME examination schedule.
Following widespread complaints about excessively early arrival times, JAMB has adjusted the arrival guidelines for candidates, especially those in the first session. This change aims to make the process more convenient while maintaining smooth biometric verification and exam flow.
The 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is set to run from Thursday, 16th April 2026 to Saturday, 25th April 2026.
Official JAMB 2026 UTME Scheduled Times
JAMB has provided clear arrival times, scheduled start times, and end times for the four daily sessions. Here is the breakdown:
Monday to Thursday Schedule
Session 1: Arrival by 7:00 AM | Exam starts 8:30 AM | Ends 10:30 AM
Session 2: Arrival by 9:00 AM | Starts 11:00 AM | Ends 1:00 PM
Session 3: Arrival by 11:00 AM | Starts 1:30 PM | Ends 3:30 PM
Session 4: Arrival by 2:00 PM | Starts 4:00 PM | Ends 6:00 PM
Friday Schedule
Session 1: Arrival 7:00 AM | Starts 8:30 AM | Ends 10:30 AM
Session 2: Arrival 9:00 AM | Starts 11:00 AM | Ends 1:00 PM
Session 3: Arrival 11:00 AM | Starts 1:30 PM (Reserved) | Ends 3:30 PM (Reserved)
Session 4: Arrival 2:00 PM | Starts 4:00 PM | Ends 6:00 PM
The biggest relief is for first session candidates is that you no longer need to arrive as early as 6:30 AM. The new official arrival time is 7:00 AM sharp.
Why Did JAMB Change the Arrival Time?
Many candidates and parents raised concerns about the previous early arrival requirement, citing security risks, transportation challenges (especially in cities like Lagos), and fatigue before the actual exam. JAMB listened and made this practical adjustment. The exam start time for Session 1 remains 8:30 AM, giving enough buffer for screening and biometrics.
Important Note: Your printed examination slip time is still valid. You do not need to reprint your slip for this update. Just follow the new arrival guidelines above.
What Candidates Should Do Now
- Print Your Exam Slip Immediately if you haven’t. Confirm your exact date, venue, and session (time).
- Plan Your Journey accordingly. Factor in traffic. Aim to reach your CBT centre at least 15–30 minutes before the stated arrival time.
- Prepare Required Items: Printed JAMB examination slip HB pencil and eraser.(optional but recommended)
- Avoid prohibited items like phones, smartwatches, calculators.
Tips for Success on Exam Day
Arrive early but not excessively early. For Session 1 candidates, 7:00 AM is the target. Stay calm during biometric verification.
Focus on time management. Get quality rest the night before your exam. With the exam starting in three days (April 16, 2026), use this time to revise key topics and stay updated.
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