How Does JAMB Work? understanding Nigeria’s Tertiary Entrance Examination

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is the primary body responsible for conducting entrance examinations for tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Understanding how JAMB works is essential for every student aspiring to gain admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education across the country. This article dives into the workings of JAMB, breaking down the process into clear, actionable steps for students and parents to follow.

Introduction

JAMB plays a pivotal role in Nigeria’s educational system by ensuring a standardized examination process for all candidates seeking admission into higher institutions. With over 2 million candidates registering annually, JAMB’s role has become more critical in ensuring transparency and fairness in the admission process. According to the latest JAMB report, in 2023, 1.8 million candidates sat for the exam, with only 500,000 securing admission—a testament to the competitive nature of the system.

Recent reforms introduced by JAMB have significantly impacted the admission process, such as the introduction of the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS). CAPS ensures that only qualified candidates are admitted based on merit and available spaces in institutions.

How JAMB Works

Registration Process

The first step for any candidate is the registration process. Candidates are required to create a profile on the JAMB portal, providing necessary details such as their name, email, and phone number. After creating the profile, candidates can proceed to purchase the JAMB ePIN, which allows them to complete the registration. At the point of registration, candidates select their preferred institutions and courses.

The JAMB Examination

The JAMB examination, also known as the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) that covers four subjects. English Language is compulsory for all candidates, and the other three subjects depend on the course of study. For example, a student aspiring to study Medicine might take subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, while an Accounting student would choose subjects like Mathematics, Economics, and Commerce. The UTME tests a candidate’s readiness for higher education and ability to handle the academic challenges ahead.

Scoring System

JAMB scores range from 0 to 400. Each subject in the UTME carries a maximum of 100 marks, and a candidate’s overall score is the sum of the four subject scores. Based on this score, JAMB generates a cut-off mark, which is the minimum score required for admission consideration. In 2023, the cut-off mark for universities was set at 140, polytechnics at 120, and colleges of education at 100.

Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS)

CAPS is a system introduced by JAMB to automate the admission process, ensuring that only qualified candidates are admitted into Nigerian tertiary institutions. This system works by prioritizing merit, ensuring that candidates with the highest scores are given first consideration. Through CAPS, institutions can only admit students that meet the required criteria, such as meeting the institution’s cut-off mark and having the necessary O’level results.

Candidates can monitor their admission status on the JAMB CAPS portal, where they are either offered admission or advised to accept a different course based on availability. This transparency helps eliminate manual manipulation and biases in the admission process.

Post-UTME Screening

While JAMB plays a significant role in the admission process, most institutions still conduct Post-UTME screenings. Post-UTME is an additional test set by institutions to further assess candidates. The nature of these screenings varies, ranging from written exams to interviews or even a review of JAMB and O’level results.

Admission Letters

Once a candidate has been offered admission through CAPS, they are required to accept or reject the offer. After accepting, the candidate can print their JAMB admission letter, which serves as an official document of their acceptance into the institution. This letter is critical for clearance and registration purposes.

• How to Register for JAMB Successfully
• Post-UTME Exam Preparation Tips
• Understanding JAMB Cut-Off Marks and Admission Criteria

Conclusion & Actionable Advice

JAMB is a critical gateway to higher education in Nigeria, and understanding its processes can increase a candidate’s chances of securing admission. For prospective students, staying updated on registration deadlines, understanding the CAPS system, and preparing adequately for both the UTME and Post-UTME are essential steps toward success.

Actionable Advice:

• Begin preparing for the UTME early by studying JAMB-recommended textbooks.
• Monitor your admission status on the CAPS portal regularly to stay informed.
• Ensure all documents, including your O’level results, are ready before the Post-UTME screening process.