2026 Mock UTME Update: JAMB Directs Candidates to Print Exam Notification Slip Ahead of Test

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has instructed candidates preparing for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination who opted for the mock exercise to print their examination notification slips without delay.

According to an official notice released in Abuja, candidates can begin printing their Mock UTME slips from March 23, 2026, through the board’s official portal. To access the slip, applicants are required to select the “2-Session 2026 MOCK SLIP PRINTING” option and enter their registration number.

The examination body advised candidates to print their slips early and carefully review details such as their assigned examination centres. Familiarising themselves with the location ahead of time is expected to reduce last-minute challenges and improve overall performance during the test.

JAMB also made it clear that while the mock UTME is generally optional, participation becomes compulsory for candidates who indicated interest during registration. The board warned that failure to attend after securing a slot could attract penalties, noting that such absence denies other candidates the opportunity to participate.

The mock examination is scheduled to take place on March 28, 2026, and will feature a significant adjustment in structure. For this year, the duration has been extended from the usual two hours to four hours to allow candidates gain deeper familiarity with the Computer-Based Test system.

To accommodate this change, the exercise will be conducted in two consecutive sessions on the same day. The first session is set for 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., followed by the second session from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with participants expected to complete both sessions.

The Registrar of JAMB, Is-haq Oloyede, disclosed that the mock exam will also serve as a testing ground for a newly developed examination engine. This innovation is part of broader efforts to strengthen efficiency, security, and service delivery within Nigeria’s examination system.

He explained that the introduction of the new system reflects ongoing reforms aimed at improving the conduct of computer-based examinations nationwide. If successful, the upgraded test engine is expected to significantly enhance the reliability and speed of CBT processes.

In addition, the board has introduced an alternative examination method to boost operational security and reduce pressure on personnel. Nationwide training and sensitisation programmes for technical staff and biometric verification officers are already underway to ensure smooth implementation.

As part of preparations for the main UTME, which is scheduled to begin on April 16, 2026, JAMB has also strengthened its collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to guarantee a secure and seamless examination process.

The board reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a credible, transparent, and hitch-free examination, urging candidates and stakeholders to adhere strictly to all guidelines and maintain high standards throughout the process.