JAMB Reinforces Strict Examination Guidelines for 2026 UTME
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued a comprehensive reinforcement of its strict code of conduct in preparation for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The examination is scheduled to run from Thursday, April 16, to Saturday, April 25, 2026, across accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centers nationwide.
Prohibited Items That Could Lead to Immediate Disqualification
To maintain the integrity of the computer-based testing process, JAMB has outlined specific prohibitions with severe consequences for any violations. Candidates are strictly warned that possession of any banned items, whether in use or not, constitutes grounds for immediate cancellation of results and potential prosecution under the Examination Malpractice Act.
The complete list of forbidden items includes:
- Electronic Devices: Mobile phones, calculators, wristwatches, cameras, recording devices, microphones, earpieces, and Bluetooth-enabled equipment.
- Storage Media: USB flash drives, CDs, hard disks, and any similar data storage components.
- Stationery and Reading Materials: Pens, biros, erasers, ink or pen readers, books, or any writing materials except ordinary HB pencils which are permitted.
- Smart Technology: Spy reading glasses, smart lenses, smart rings, smart buttons, and any form of smart jewelry.
- Personal Effects: Key holders, ATM cards, wallets, purses, bangles, rings, necklaces, and bags of any kind.
Comprehensive Penalty Structure for Examination Malpractice
JAMB has established a detailed framework of penalties for various forms of examination misconduct, ranging from immediate disqualification to long-term bans and criminal prosecution.
Significant infractions include:
- Impersonation (Code D): Results cancellation, two-year examination ban, and prosecution.
- Violent or Unruly Behavior (Code G): Results cancellation, expulsion from the examination center, prosecution, and a three-year ban.
- Collusion (Code K): Results cancellation, three-year ban, and legal action.
- Tampering with Results (Code P): Results cancellation, three-year ban, and prosecution.
Even lesser infractions carry serious consequences. Lateness (Code H) or Leaving the examination hall without permission (Code L) will result in automatic cancellation of the candidate's results. The board specifically emphasized that possession of prohibited electronics like mobile phones or wristwatches will lead to both result cancellation and active prosecution.
Examination Schedule and Mandatory Protocols
To ensure a smooth examination experience, JAMB has stipulated that the first of four daily sessions will commence at 8:30 a.m. sharp nationwide. All candidates must undergo strict biometric verification and thorough screening before being granted entry to examination halls.
It is mandatory for students to arrive early at their assigned accredited CBT centers with only their permitted e-registration slips and HB pencils. Failure to comply with these arrival and verification protocols will result in the immediate forfeiture of the examination session without any possibility of rescheduling.
The board's reinforced measures aim to preserve the credibility of Nigeria's tertiary education admission process and ensure fair opportunities for all candidates participating in the 2026 UTME.
