JAMB changes 2027 UTME first-session arrival time

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has altered the arrival time for candidates in the first session of the 2027 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Previously, candidates were required to arrive at their computer-based test (CBT) centers by 6:30am, but this has now been changed to 7:30am. The examination itself will still commence at 8:30am and conclude at 10:30am.

This alteration was made by JAMB to address safety and logistical concerns related to very early morning travel, especially for candidates who must travel long distances to reach their examination centers. The decision was announced in a statement by JAMB spokesperson and Acting Director of Public Affairs and Protocols, Dr. Fabian Benjamin.

The change in arrival time came after deliberations at JAMB's 2026 Management and Information Technology Retreat, held in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, from September 6 to 11. Benjamin explained that the Board took into account public concerns about the implications of the earlier arrival time and the difficulties candidates might face while traveling before dawn.

They concluded that a later arrival time would enhance both safety and convenience for the candidates. Additionally, Benjamin noted that the revised schedule could potentially reduce the number of candidates who miss their examinations due to challenges associated with the earlier reporting time.

However, it was clarified that other examination sessions will continue to follow the existing scheduling arrangements. JAMB emphasized that this adjustment is limited to the first session of the 2027 UTME. The decision to modify the arrival time was one of several outcomes resulting from discussions at the retreat, which brought together various stakeholders, including members of JAMB's management, state coordinators, heads of outstation offices, and other relevant parties.