The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced a key schedule update. It affects candidates sitting the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Notably, the change comes just days before the exam begins.
Why JAMB Made the Change
The adjustment follows complaints about early arrival times and logistical challenges reported during previous examinations and mock sessions. Furthermore, the revision was made in response to concerns raised by candidates and parents over early morning travel challenges, including safety risks and transportation difficulties. In response to these concerns, JAMB acted swiftly to push back the reporting time. Consequently, the board communicated the update through its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday.
The New Arrival Time and What Has Changed
In an official notice, JAMB stated that candidates scheduled for the first session are now expected to arrive at their examination centres by 7:00 a.m., instead of the earlier communicated 6:30 a.m.
“Attention 2026 UTME Candidates: This is to notify you of a slight adjustment to the arrival scheduled time, particularly for the first session, which is now 7:00am as against the earlier published 6:30am, while the scheduled start time for the session is now 8:30 am and end time 10:30 am.”
Additionally, the clarification is part of JAMB’s effort to streamline candidate movement into CBT centres and reduce congestion during biometric verification and accreditation.
Full Session Timetable: Monday to Friday
According to the revised schedule, four sessions will be conducted daily between Monday and Thursday. The first session requires candidates to arrive by 7:00 a.m., with examinations running from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The second session begins at 11:00 a.m. and ends at 1:00 p.m., while the third runs from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The final session of the day is slated for 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
On Fridays, however, there is a notable difference. The timetable remains largely the same, except for the third session, which has been marked as “reserved.” This means only three active sessions will be held on that day, with the reserved slot intended for contingencies or administrative purposes.
No Need to Reprint Your Examination Slip
Importantly, candidates should not panic about the change. The board was clear and reassuring on this point. In its notice, JAMB stated:
“Please note that you need not reprint your slip. Thank you.”
Therefore, the adjustment does not affect other details already provided on the examination slip. Candidates are advised to simply take note of the new arrival time mentally.
Exam Dates and Final Reminders
The 2026 UTME is scheduled to hold from Thursday, April 16 to Saturday, April 25, 2026. Meanwhile, JAMB has consistently advised candidates to arrive only at the exact time indicated for their sessions and to avoid late arrival, warning that missing accreditation windows could affect their ability to sit for the examination.
In summary, all 2026 UTME candidates, especially those in Session 1 should update their plans accordingly. The exam is just days away. Arriving on time, with the correct documents, remains absolutely essential.