Every year, thousands of Nigerian students search for one major question: “when is jamb exam commencing”. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination is one of the most important entrance exams for students seeking admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education in Nigeria.
If you are preparing for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), this detailed guide explains everything you need to know about when is jamb exam commencing, registration dates, mock exam dates, reprinting schedules, preparation tips, and important instructions every candidate must follow.
Whether you are a first-time candidate or someone rewriting the exam, this article provides updated and verified information to help you stay ahead.
When Is JAMB Exam Commencing in 2026?
The official date for the commencement of the 2026 JAMB UTME examination is expected to begin on Thursday, April 16, 2026, and continue until Saturday, April 25, 2026 across accredited CBT centres in Nigeria.
This means candidates preparing for the examination should already begin intensive preparation because the examination period is close.
Many students asking when is jamb exam commencing should understand that the examination is conducted in batches. Your exact examination date and time will appear on your JAMB examination slip after reprinting.
Official JAMB 2026 Registration Dates
Apart from knowing when is jamb exam commencing, candidates must also know the official registration timeline.
According to reports released concerning the 2026 UTME schedule, JAMB registration started on January 26, 2026, and closes on February 28, 2026.
JAMB 2026 Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| JAMB ePIN Sales Begins | January 19, 2026 |
| UTME Registration Begins | January 26, 2026 |
| UTME Registration Ends | February 28, 2026 |
| Mock Exam Date | March 28, 2026 |
| Main JAMB Exam Commences | April 16, 2026 |
| Main JAMB Exam Ends | April 25, 2026 |
These dates are very important for all candidates searching for when is jamb exam commencing because missing registration deadlines may prevent you from participating in the examination.
What Is JAMB and Why Is It Important?
Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board commonly known as JAMB, is the body responsible for conducting entrance examinations into tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
The UTME examination determines whether candidates qualify for admission into:
- Universities
- Polytechnics
- Colleges of Education
- Innovative Enterprise Institutions
Without JAMB, admission into most Nigerian higher institutions becomes almost impossible.
This is why the question when is jamb exam commencing becomes extremely important for millions of students every year.
How JAMB Examination Is Conducted
The JAMB examination is conducted using the Computer-Based Test (CBT) format. Candidates answer questions on computers at accredited CBT centres.
Subjects Written in JAMB
Every candidate writes four subjects:
- Use of English (compulsory)
- Three subjects related to their chosen course
For example:
Science Students
- English
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
Art Students
- English
- Literature
- Government
- CRS/IRS
Commercial Students
- English
- Economics
- Commerce
- Accounting
Understanding your subject combination is as important as knowing when is jamb exam commencing because wrong combinations may affect admission chances.
Mock Examination Date for 2026 JAMB
The optional mock examination is scheduled for March 28, 2026.
The mock exam helps candidates:
- Understand CBT systems
- Practice time management
- Reduce examination fear
- Familiarize themselves with computer operations
Students searching for when is jamb exam commencing are also advised to participate in the mock examination because it gives practical experience before the main exam.
How to Register for JAMB 2026
To register successfully, candidates must follow the correct process.
Step 1: Get Your NIN
Before registration, you must obtain your National Identification Number (NIN).
You can visit:
Step 2: Create Your JAMB Profile
Send your NIN via SMS to:
- 55019
- or 66019
You will receive your profile code.
Step 3: Buy JAMB ePIN
Purchase your JAMB ePIN through approved banks and accredited vendors.
Step 4: Visit Accredited CBT Centres
Complete your registration at an accredited CBT centre.
Step 5: Collect Your Printout
After registration, collect:
- Registration slip
- Recommended novel
- Examination details
Students asking when is jamb exam commencing should ensure they register early to avoid network issues and late registration stress.
How to Reprint JAMB Examination Slip
Before the examination begins, candidates must reprint their examination slips.
The slip contains:
- Exam date
- Venue
- Time
- Seat number
You can reprint your slip through the official JAMB portal:
Candidates searching for when is jamb exam commencing should understand that reprinting is the only way to know their exact exam schedule.
What Candidates Should Bring to the Examination Hall
When preparing for the exam commencement date, candidates should bring:
- JAMB examination slip
- Valid registration printout
- Simple clothing
- Face mask if required by the centre
Do NOT bring:
- Phones
- Smart watches
- Bags
- Electronic devices
- Calculators not approved
Failure to obey instructions may lead to disqualification.
Common Mistakes Candidates Make Before JAMB
Many candidates fail not because they are not intelligent, but because they make avoidable mistakes.
1. Late Preparation
Some students wait until they hear when is jamb exam commencing before they begin reading seriously.
2. Wrong Subject Combination
Using incorrect subjects can affect admission.
3. Depending on Expo
JAMB has improved its anti-malpractice systems significantly.
4. Poor Time Management
Candidates often spend too much time on difficult questions.
5. Ignoring the Syllabus
The JAMB syllabus guides students on areas of concentration.
Best Ways to Prepare for JAMB 2026
If you truly want a high score, preparation must start immediately after learning when is jamb exam commencing.
Study the JAMB Syllabus
Focus only on topics listed in the syllabus.
Practice CBT Questions
Use computer-based practice apps regularly.
Read Daily
Consistency matters more than reading once in a while.
Solve Past Questions
Past questions reveal repeated patterns.
Use a Timetable
A proper study timetable increases productivity.
Will JAMB Change the Exam Date?
Normally, JAMB follows its announced schedule strictly. However, in rare situations, changes may happen due to:
- National emergencies
- Technical issues
- Public holidays
- Government directives
Candidates asking when is jamb exam commencing should regularly check official announcements for updates.
You can monitor updates through:
How Many Questions Are in JAMB?
The UTME examination usually contains:
| Subject | Number of Questions |
|---|---|
| English | 60 |
| Other Subjects | 40 each |
Total questions:
- 180 questions
Total score:
- 400 marks
Understanding the structure helps candidates preparing for when is jamb exam commencing organize their reading effectively.
JAMB Cut-Off Marks Explained
After the examination commences and results are released, institutions determine their cut-off marks.
Typical ranges include:
| Institution Type | Cut-Off Range |
|---|---|
| Universities | 140–300 |
| Polytechnics | 100–180 |
| Colleges of Education | 100–160 |
Highly competitive courses like:
- Medicine
- Law
- Pharmacy
- Engineering
usually require higher scores.
Courses With High Competition in Nigeria
Students searching for when is jamb exam commencing often target highly competitive courses such as:
- Medicine and Surgery
- Nursing
- Pharmacy
- Law
- Computer Science
- Mass Communication
- Accounting
These courses require strong JAMB scores and good O’Level results.
Can You Gain Admission Without JAMB?
Yes, but limited options exist.
Alternatives include:
- JUPEB
- IJMB
- Pre-degree programs
- Direct Entry
- National Open University
However, JAMB remains the most recognized admission route in Nigeria.
Challenges Candidates Face During JAMB
Some common issues include:
Network Problems
Registration delays due to server traffic.
CBT Anxiety
Fear of computers among first-time candidates.
Examination Centre Distance
Some centres are far from candidates’ homes.
Fingerprint Verification Issues
Biometric errors may delay entry.
Students concerned about when is jamb exam commencing should solve these possible issues early.
Important Advice for Parents
Parents also play a major role in students’ success.
Parents should:
- Encourage reading habits
- Reduce distractions
- Provide emotional support
- Help candidates arrive early at CBT centres
A supportive environment increases performance significantly.
Latest Verified JAMB 2026 Examination Information
Recent reports indicate that the examination will hold nationwide between April 16 and April 25, 2026. Registration and ePIN sales have already been announced officially through multiple educational updates and reports.
Students still searching for when is jamb exam commencing should start preparing immediately because the examination period is approaching quickly.
Conclusion
If you have been asking when is jamb exam commencing, the latest available information shows that the 2026 JAMB UTME examination is scheduled to commence on April 16, 2026, and end on April 25, 2026.
Candidates should avoid waiting until the last minute before studying. Early preparation, proper registration, CBT practice, and understanding the examination structure are the keys to success.
The competition for admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions becomes tougher every year, so serious preparation is extremely important.
Also Read: What Is Exam Malpractice? Causes, Effects, Types, and How to Prevent It
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is JAMB exam commencing in 2026?
The 2026 JAMB UTME examination is expected to commence on April 16, 2026.
2. When will JAMB registration end?
JAMB registration for 2026 is expected to end on February 28, 2026.
3. Is JAMB mock compulsory?
No, the JAMB mock examination is optional, but it is highly recommended for candidates who want CBT experience before the main exam.
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