The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced a revised commencement date for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration. The process, initially scheduled to begin on Friday, January 31, 2025, will now start on Monday, February 3, 2025.
According to the Board, the adjustment follows the need to update registration templates in response to recent directives from the Council for Legal Education, which suspended accreditation for select law programs. Additionally, JAMB identified discrepancies in facility compliance at certain approved Computer-Based Test (CBT) centers, necessitating reevaluation and delisting of noncompliant venues.
The Board acknowledged potential disruptions to candidates and stakeholders, emphasizing that the postponement allows for finalizing revised protocols to ensure registration integrity.
Below are key updates and procedural requirements for candidates:
1. Mandatory Pre-Registration Requirements
Prospective candidates must ensure compliance with the following prerequisites:
- National Identification Number (NIN):
JAMB mandates NIN linkage for all registrations. Candidates without NIN must complete enrollment at designated centers before proceeding. - Profile Creation:
A valid JAMB profile (via the JAMB portal or approved USSD codes) is required to generate a registration code. - Institutional Program Verification:
Candidates applying for law programs must confirm the accreditation status of their chosen institutions via the JAMB Integrated Brochure and Syllabus System (IBASS).
2. Subject Selection and Combination Compliance
The Board reiterated that UTME subject combinations must align with the academic prerequisites of candidates’ chosen tertiary programs.
- Core Requirements:
English Language remains compulsory. Three additional subjects must correspond to the candidate’s intended course (e.g., Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics for Engineering). - Prohibited Combinations:
Mismatched subjects (e.g., combining Arts and Science disciplines for Medicine) will disqualify candidates.
3. Documentation Guidelines
Candidates must provide the following documents during registration:
- Personal Data:
A recent passport photograph (white background, no glasses/headgear).
Birth certificate or affidavit. - Academic Records:
O’Level results (WAEC, NECO, or equivalent). Candidates awaiting results must upload them promptly after release. - Identity Verification:
NIN slip and valid government-issued ID (e.g., voter’s card, international passport).
4. CBT Center Accreditation and Vigilance
Following the discovery of noncompliant CBT centers, JAMB has released an updated list of accredited venues.
- Verification Protocol:
Candidates must cross-check their chosen CBT center against the official list published on JAMB’s website.
Registration at unapproved centers will invalidate applications. - Technical Requirements:
Ensure the center has functional biometric verification systems, stable power supply, and JAMB-certified software.
5. Biometric Data and Photographic Specifications
Biometric failures (e.g., fingerprint mismatches) remain a leading cause of registration delays.
- Photograph Standards:
- Clear, full-face capture (no shadows).
- Resolution: 600px × 600px.
- Format: JPEG (not exceeding 50KB).
- Biometric Capture:
Candidates with physical impairments (e.g., fingerprint scars) must notify JAMB for alternative arrangements.
6. Payment Procedures and Fraud Prevention
JAMB registration fees are nonrefundable. Candidates must adhere to the following:
- Approved Payment Channels:
Fees are payable via JAMB’s online portal, designated banks, or NIPOST. Third-party platforms are unauthorized. - Fee Structure:
- Registration: ₦3,500 (excludes CBT center charges).
- Optional services: ₦500 for a printed result slip.
- Scam Alerts:
JAMB does not endorse “priority registration” or “special admission” services. Candidates are advised to avoid unsolicited third-party agents.
7. Post-Registration Protocols
After completing registration, candidates must:
- Review Registration Slip:
Confirm accuracy of name spelling, subject combinations, and institution choices. Errors must be reported within 24 hours. - Print Acknowledgment Slip:
Retain a copy as proof of registration. - Mock Examination Participation:
Optional mock tests will be conducted to familiarize candidates with CBT systems. Dates will be announced separately.
