The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced a new date for the 2025 Mock Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), which was initially scheduled for April 5 to April 10, 2025. The adjustment is part of the board’s efforts to finalise necessary preparations and implement new innovations to improve the examination process. The main UTME, however, remains unchanged and is set to begin on April 25, 2025. The board further explained that the changes will allow for the incorporation of several enhancements designed to elevate the examination quality.
These improvements are expected to streamline the testing experience for candidates while accommodating the increased number of examination centres participating in this year’s exercise. The mock UTME is an optional preparatory test that allows candidates to familiarise themselves with the examination format and the Computer-Based Test (CBT) system before the actual UTME. With the new date in place, JAMB has urged registered candidates to remain alert for further updates, particularly regarding the printing of their Mock Notification Slips. These slips will contain crucial details, including the specific examination centres assigned to each candidate.
Implications of the date change on student preparedness.
Currently, over 200,000 candidates have registered for the optional mock exam, while 630 candidates have signed up for a trial mock examination. The high registration numbers reflect the growing interest in the test to prepare for the main exam. The Exam body’s decision to adjust the date underscores its commitment to ensuring a seamless and efficient examination process for all participants. But, the sudden shift may affect candidates’ preparation strategies. For many, the initial date had already been integrated into their study schedules to give room for the main exam preparation with structured revision plans and timed practice sessions aligned to that timeline.
As a result, the unexpected extension could disrupt these plans, introducing an element of uncertainty that may affect concentration and motivation. Even with that, some candidates may view the adjustment as an opportunity to refine their knowledge and address weak areas before the test. However, without proper time management, the additional days could lead to procrastination rather than productive study. The psychological impact of such changes cannot be overlooked, as candidates often operate under significant pressure, and any alteration to their expected timeline can heighten anxiety levels.
Comparative assessment of the text processes against global standards.
When evaluating JAMB’s examination framework, compare it with other national and international testing bodies. Within Nigeria, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) are the bodies that oversee Secondary School certification exams, which differ from JAMB’s university admission-focused assessments. While WAEC and NECO still rely heavily on paper-based testing, JAMB has upgraded and made strides in adopting computer-based testing (CBT) to enhance efficiency and reduce malpractice, which has led to some examination delays.
Globally, examination systems such as the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) in the United States and the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) in the United Kingdom offer different approaches to university admissions. The SAT emphasises critical thinking and problem-solving skills, while UCAS manages applications without a centralised entrance exam. Compared to them, JAMB’s structure reflects local educational challenges, including high competition for limited university slots and disparities in access to quality education. Despite these hurdles, JAMB continues to refine its processes, drawing insights from global best practices to improve fairness and transparency.
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With the revised mock UTME date set, JAMB is working diligently to implement the promised innovations, ensuring a smooth and technologically advanced testing process. The board’s proactive approach reflects its dedication to maintaining high standards in the country’s tertiary admission system. Candidates, parents, and schools are advised to monitor their official communications for further updates as the examination dates draw nearer. Lastly, according to the admission body, the development is part of their goal of fostering academic excellence and equitable access to university Education nationwide.