2027 UTME: Five common mistakes candidates must avoid

The 2027 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is fast-approaching and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is warning candidates to be mindful of common mistakes that could hinder their chances of securing admission to their desired institutions.

Firstly, candidates are cautioned to start their preparations early and not leave it until the last few weeks or months before the exam. Insufficient time could result in inadequate coverage of the syllabus, poor performance in past questions and difficulties understanding challenging subjects.

Secondly, candidates must choose their courses carefully before registration. Some have registered without understanding the admission requirements of their preferred fields of study. Prospective candidates should identify their desired courses early, research the institutions offering them and confirm the necessary O’level credits before finalising their registration.

Thirdly, selecting the correct UTME subject combination is vital. Choosing the wrong combination could disqualify a candidate regardless of their score. Candidates are advised to consult JAMB’s Integrated Brochure and Syllabus System (IBASS) to verify the required subject combinations for their preferred courses.

Fourthly, candidates must stay informed about official JAMB updates. Missing announcements about registration procedures, deadlines, examination schedules and other critical guidelines could lead to unnecessary complications. Regularly visiting JAMB’s official website and following its verified communication channels is essential.

Lastly, providing accurate personal information during registration is crucial. Errors in personal details like names, dates of birth, National Identification Number (NIN) information, phone numbers and other data could create verification problems during registration and admission processing. Candidates must ensure their personal information is correct and consistent across relevant documents before visiting accredited registration centres and double-check all details entered during registration.

In conclusion, success in the 2027 UTME requires more than just academic preparation. It involves making informed decisions, understanding admission requirements, adhering to official guidelines and ensuring accurate registration details. By addressing these common pitfalls, candidates can significantly improve their chances of gaining admission in 2027.