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The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has published a revised arrival time for candidates writing the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), especially those scheduled in the first session.
In a statement issued via JAMB’s official X handle on Monday, April 13, the examination body stated that candidates for the first session are to arrive at their Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres by 7:00 am, instead of the previously scheduled time of 6:30 am.
The board said the change is part of efforts to improve the examination experience and address safety concerns raised by candidates and parents. Also, they confirmed that the first session will now begin at 8:30 am and end at 10:30 am. Maintaining the examination’s duration and simultaneously allowing more time for candidates to settle in before the exam starts.
“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 7:00 am as against the earlier published 6:30 am, while the scheduled start time for the session is now 8:30 am and end time 10:30 am,” the board said in its statement.
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 pic.twitter.com/5a8Jppp7aw
— JAMB (@JAMBHQ) April 13, 2026
Additionally, the board explained that candidates are not required to reprint their exam slips, noting that all other details remain the same. The reviewed schedule is part of a timetable designed to ensure smooth operations across CBT centres nationwide.
According to JAMB, the full daily schedule will feature four sessions each day from Monday to Friday, with adjusted timings across all batches to improve coordination and reduce overcrowding at examination centres.
The decision follows repeated feedback from candidates and parents about the challenges of very early morning travel. By adjusting the arrival time, the board plans to create a more convenient and secure environment for candidates while maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the examination process.
The 2026 UTME will take place from Thursday, April 16, to Saturday, April 25, across accredited CBT centres nationwide.
