Joint admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is one of the most powerful education institutions in Nigeria which conducts and controls the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) which is the entrance to universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. JAMB has millions of candidates every year who will rely on it to conduct their testing process, accurate results, and clear admission criteria.

To the 2025 UTME cycle has been added significant changes, such as increased registration numbers, the issue of leaked exams, technical problems, withheld scores, enhanced anti-malpractice, and the question of overall performance. This paper dissects all the recent JAMB news in 2016, including registration, exams, results, Post-UTME, Direct Entry, and the future expectations of the candidates.

Introduction: Why 2025 Is a Defining Year for JAMB and Nigerian Admissions

The most radical changes in the history of tertiary education in Nigeria are associated with the 2025 UTME cycle. As more than two million candidates are registered to take the examination, which is one of the highest numbers in the history of the test, JAMB has been under pressure to be fair, transparent, and to have better technological processes. It has been a year of achievements and difficulties: smooth sailing in most centers, but also significant tech problems in some centers; large attendance at mock exams, but also worries about surprisingly low performance in UTME applicants.

JAMB has retorted with several clarifications of the policies, upgrade of the systems, and reassurances of the candidates and parents. Consequently, being informed with confirmed JAMB news is now more than ever due to the numerous occurrences of illusory social media updates, deadlines, and fabricated score checking portals.

2025 UTME Registration: Over 2 Million Candidates Registered Nationwide

The big first page event that the 2025 JAMB cycle will see is the huge number of students registering. By the official statistics published by the Board, over 2,030,627 candidates have registered before the portal was closed on March 8, 2025. This figure is one of the top figures in the history of JAMB and it proves the increased demand to access tertiary education in Nigeria.

Registration Period and Deadline

• Registration opened on February 3, 2025, across all approved Computer-Based Test (CBT) centers.
• The exercise ran for just over a month before officially closing on March 8, 2025.
• JAMB repeatedly advised candidates to register early to avoid last-minute congestion and the possibility of fake centers taking advantage of desperate candidates.

Why Registration Numbers Increased in 2025

Several factors helped push the 2025 registration numbers to a record high:

1. Increased secondary school graduation numbers

More students completed WAEC/NECO in the previous academic year, prompting a spike in UTME applicants.

2. Expanded awareness campaigns by JAMB

JAMB invested substantially in awareness efforts, especially to rural and underserved communities.

3. Introduction of new degree programs

More universities have adopted innovative programs such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, fintech, biotechnology, and renewable energy engineering, attracting a fresh wave of applicants.

4. Improved process efficiency

Unlike past years, the 2025 registration process was largely smooth in many centers, with faster biometric capturing and fewer network disruptions.

JAMB Registration Requirements in 2025

Candidates were expected to provide:

• National Identification Number (NIN)
• Phone number (linked to JAMB profile)
• Email address
• O’level results (uploaded at accredited centers)
• Biometric data
• A choice of four institutions:
  • 1 university
  • 1 polytechnic
  • 1 college of education
  • 1 innovative enterprise institution (optional)

WASSCE Result Upload Challenges (August Update)

Later in 2025, JAMB temporarily shut its portal for WASSCE result uploads due to technical issues. This affected many candidates preparing for admission, but the Board assured the public that the fix was underway and that no student would be disadvantaged.

This situation highlights the need for candidates to always rely on official updates, not social media speculation.

2025 Mock UTME: Participation, Released Results, and Score Breakdown

Another central element of the JAMB 2025 update is the Mock UTME: a voluntary exam designed to help students familiarize themselves with the CBT format. Not all candidates take the mock exam, but those who do often report improved speed and confidence during the main UTME.

Registration and Participation Statistics

• Over 200,115 candidates registered for the 2025 mock UTME.
• Out of these, 126,181 candidates eventually sat for the exam at various CBT centers nationwide.
• The remaining candidates were unable to sit for the mock due to personal reasons or center-related constraints.

This participation rate shows a continued interest in the mock system, even though it is not compulsory.

Release of Mock Results

On April 13, 2025, JAMB released 115,735 mock UTME results.
However, 10,446 results were held temporarily for further processing. According to JAMB, these delays mostly resulted from:

• Technical disruptions
• Suspicious biometric activity
• Data inconsistencies
• Server synchronization delays in some centers

Candidates whose results were withheld were advised to wait for further updates, and most processed results were later released.

Why the Mock UTME Matters

Even though mock exams do not influence final UTME performance, they offer several benefits:

1. Familiarization with the CBT environment

Candidates get comfortable with the computer interface, reducing anxiety.

2. Performance preview

Mock scores help highlight weak areas and guide last-minute study adjustments.

3. Real-time technical testing

Mock exams help JAMB detect issues in CBT centers ahead of the main UTME.

4. Psychological readiness

Candidates who sit the mock often report higher confidence during the real exam.

Technical Glitches, Cancelled Sessions & UTME Rescheduling

One of the most controversial updates in 2025 involved technical glitches that affected thousands of candidates in Lagos and several South-East states.

The Board later confirmed that a “failed software update” had affected operations in 157 CBT centers, resulting in exam disruptions, abrupt session terminations, and in some cases, failure to load examination questions.

Number of Affected Candidates

Nearly 379,997 candidates were impacted by the disruptions and were later asked to sit for a rescheduled UTME.

JAMB’s Official Response

JAMB apologized publicly and offered:

• A rescheduled exam for all affected candidates
• A review of all CBT centers involved
• Possible sanctions for centers with repeated technical failures
• Assurance of improved software stability

Despite these efforts, the incident sparked nationwide concern about JAMB’s technology infrastructure.

2025 UTME Results: Full Breakdown, Performance Trends & JAMB’s Official Statement

Publication of the 2025 UTME results brought about many reactions in Nigeria particularly due to the drastic reduction in the performance of the candidates. According to JAMB, out of 1.9 million individuals who wrote the examination, an astonishing percentage of all those who did scored below expectation, casting doubt on the difficulty of the examination, the readiness of the students and the effect of technical issues encountered in certain institutions.

On May 9, 2025, officially, JAMB published the 2025 UTME scores, recommending that candidates receive the scores via SMS or the JAMB e-facility portal.

How to Check 2025 UTME Results

JAMB emphasized two secure methods for checking UTME scores:

Method 1: Via SMS

Candidates could send:

“UTME RESULT” to 55019 or 66019
– using the same phone number used during registration.

Method 2: Via JAMB E-Facility Portal

Candidates could log in to:

www.jamb.gov.ng → “Check UTME Results”

This method provides a detailed score breakdown for each subject.

Important: JAMB warned candidates against checking results via third-party websites, as this can lead to data theft, scams, or misinformation.

Overall Performance Statistics

Perhaps the most trending headline in 2025 was the drastic performance drop. Several media platforms reported that approximately 78% of candidates scored below 200, a score widely considered the minimum benchmark for many competitive programs.

Performance Summary for 2025 UTME

• 78% scored below 200
• 21.5% scored 200 and above
• Only a tiny fraction scored above 300
• Very few candidates scored above 350, indicating a tougher grading or exam standard
• The highest scores recorded were significantly lower than in previous years

This performance caused concern among parents, educators, and students, many of whom believed that technical glitches or system grading issues contributed to the low scores.

Why Many Candidates Scored Low in 2025

JAMB offered explanations for the unusual results:

1. Stricter Anti-Cheating Measures

The Board stated that it had enhanced security protocols and monitoring technologies, making malpractice more difficult. With less cheating, scores were more reflective of actual performance.

2. Better Algorithm for Question Randomization

Questions were more evenly randomized across centers, reducing the likelihood of question leaks or unfair advantages.

3. Poor Preparation from Candidates

JAMB argued that many candidates relied on “expo,” social media shortcuts, or poorly structured tutorials, leading to lower performance.

4. Technical Difficulties in Some Centers

Although not admitted as a major factor, candidates insisted that system glitches, frozen screens, and sudden shutdowns affected their performance.

5. Shift Toward Higher Cognitive Questions

The exam included more application-based questions, particularly in subjects like Biology, Literature, Government, and Mathematics.

Withheld Results: Reasons, Investigation & What Candidates Should Do

A major component of the 2025 UTME update was the withholding of over 39,834 results, pending further investigation. JAMB noted that this number included diverse categories of cases that required manual review before release or cancellation.

Categories of Withheld Results

JAMB grouped withheld results into multiple categories:

1. Biometric Issues

This included:

• Failed biometric verification
• Identity mismatch
• Candidates attempting multiple registrations
• Fingerprint inconsistencies

Biometric fraud was one of the most common reasons for result withholding.

2. Suspected Examination Malpractice

Some candidates were flagged for:

• Impersonation
• Using WhatsApp “runs” groups
• Bringing unauthorized devices into the exam
• Being part of organized cheating syndicates

96 results were confirmed to be clear cases of malpractice—numbers that JAMB says reflect their zero-tolerance stance.

3. Technical Irregularities

For candidates affected by software errors, JAMB placed their results under “processing” for review.

4. Multiple Registrations or Duplicate Profiles

Cases where:

• A candidate registered more than once
• A candidate used multiple NINs
• A candidate submitted conflicting data

were automatically flagged pending investigation.

5. CBT Centre Misconduct

Some centers were caught:

• Uploading fake attendance lists
• Manipulating biometric records
• Allowing unregistered candidates to sit for exams

These cases often result in sanctions for the centers and result withholding for affected candidates.

What Candidates With Held Results Should Do

JAMB advised candidates to:

1. Refrain from Panic

Many withheld results get released after investigation.

2. Regularly Check the Portal

Updates are often rolled out gradually.

3. Visit Their Registered CBT Centers

Some cases require center confirmation or additional identity validation.

4. Avoid Third-Party Interference

JAMB warned candidates not to pay anyone claiming to “release results.”

5. Wait for Official Communication

Sometimes JAMB requests candidates to undergo re-verification exercises.

Candidates whose results were eventually cleared had their scores released within days or weeks, while those confirmed guilty of malpractice had their results canceled permanently.

JAMB’s Reaction to Public Complaints Over Low Scores

Given the nationwide complaints about poor performance, JAMB clarified that the decline was not due to system errors. Rather, they attributed it to:

1. Weak Reading Culture Among Students

Many students rely heavily on:

• Social media shortcuts
• Leaked materials
• Guessing techniques

instead of engaging deeply with their subjects.

2. Overdependence on Coaching Centers

JAMB argued that many tutorial centers focus on memorized patterns rather than genuine teaching.

3. Increased Cognitive Demand in Questions

The exam is gradually migrating away from purely recall-based questions toward more reasoning-based formats.

4. Removal of Cheating Networks

Some “exam syndicates” that had operated for years were dismantled, reducing the number of fraudulent high scores.

Despite the public skepticism, JAMB insisted that the low performance trend reflected the true academic readiness of many candidates.

JAMB’s Technology Assurance: LAN-Based Exams, Not Online

To address misinformation, JAMB clarified that UTME exams:

• Are NOT internet-based
• Are conducted via Local Area Network (LAN)
• Cannot be affected by external internet outages
• Use preloaded questions on local servers

This means issues like “bad network” often refer to local server failures, not external internet connectivity. The Board reiterated that only CBT centers with stable LAN setups are approved for examinations.

Post-UTME 2025 Updates: Screening Guidelines, Deadlines & University Requirements

After the release of UTME results, the next critical phase for candidates is the Post-UTME and institutional screening exercises. The 2025/2026 admission cycle has witnessed several major updates, adjustments in deadlines, and clarifications from JAMB to ensure smooth coordination between tertiary institutions and applicants.

General Requirements for 2025 Post-UTME Screening

Most universities and polytechnics maintained similar standards for the 2025 Post-UTME cycle. Candidates applying for any institution were expected to provide:

• UTME score (as printed from JAMB portal)
• O’level results (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB)
• JAMB registration number
• A valid email address
• Evidence of payment for screening
• Birth certificate and local government identification (for physical screening)

While some schools conduct CBT-style Post-UTME exams, others adopt:

• Online screening
• Physical document verification
• Aptitude tests
• Departmental interview processes

JAMB emphasized that institutions must not collect any candidate’s password or login details. Instead, all verification must be done through official JAMB portals or school-specific platforms.

JAMB Extends Deadline for Post-UTME Submission

In late 2025, JAMB officially extended the deadline for tertiary institutions to submit Post-UTME results and admission lists, especially for underage candidates and late-screening institutions.
This extension was necessary because:

1. Some institutions delayed their internal screening
2. Technology issues slowed down result uploads
3. Many candidates had incomplete documentation
4. Universities struggled with large applicant volumes

This extension ensured that no eligible candidate was denied admission due to administrative delays.

Why Post-UTME Still Matters Despite UTME Score Drops

Given the dramatic decline in UTME performance, many institutions rely more heavily on Post-UTME to differentiate applicants. For instance:

• A candidate with 180 UTME and excellent O’level grades may outperform a candidate with a higher UTME score during Post-UTME.
• Some schools apply a weighted grading system:
  • UTME: 50%
  • Post-UTME: 30%
  • O’level: 20%

This structure gives candidates with lower UTME scores a chance to still compete effectively.

Schools Known for Strict Screening in 2025

Some universities that maintained highly competitive Post-UTME systems in 2025 include:

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)
• University of Nigeria (UNN)
• University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
• Lagos State University (LASU)
• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

Candidates applying to these institutions typically faced tougher screening processes, stricter documentation reviews, and earlier deadlines.

Direct Entry (DE) 2025: Clarifications, Extended Registration & Conversion Process

The Direct Entry (DE) program is essential for candidates seeking admission into 200-level programs. In 2025, DE applicants experienced significant updates, clarifications, and system overhauls by JAMB.

JAMB Confirms That April 7 Was NOT DE Registration Deadline

Early in the year, rumors circulated online suggesting that the DE registration deadline was April 7, 2025.
JAMB clarified that:

• No such deadline was fixed
• The registration portal remained open
• Candidates were advised to ignore misleading social media reports

This clarification prevented thousands of students, especially NCE, OND, and HND applicants—from panicking or rushing to unaccredited centers.

UTME-to-DE Conversion Begins Nationwide

In August 2025, JAMB officially began the UTME to Direct Entry conversion for eligible candidates. This applies to:

• Candidates who wrote UTME
• Later obtained A-level qualifications
• Wish to switch to DE admission

The conversion is done at accredited centers only, and candidates must provide:

• JAMB UTME registration number
• A-level results (IJMB, JUPEB, ND, NCE, HND, etc.)
• Valid NIN
• Evidence of payment for DE conversion

This conversion process prevents duplicate profiles and ensures accurate admission tracking.

Challenges DE Applicants Faced in 2025

DE applicants faced several challenges:

1. Document Verification Delays
   Some institutions took weeks to confirm A-level certificates.
2. Fake Result Racketeering
   JAMB discovered fake JUPEB/IJMB certificates submitted at some centers.
3. Portal Downtime
   Temporary shutdown of JAMB portal during result uploads caused delays.
4. Unaccredited Centers Collecting Money Fraudulently
   JAMB warned candidates to avoid such centers, emphasizing the use of official centers only.

Admission Timeline for 2025/2026 Academic Session

The JAMB Central Admission Processing System (CAPS) remains the engine behind admission allocation across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions. For 2025/2026, the timeline was as follows:

CAPS Activation Begins After Post-UTME

Once institutions complete their screenings, they begin uploading:

• Merit admission lists
• Catchment lists
• Supplementary lists
• Transfer approvals

Candidates must check their CAPS portal frequently to:

• Accept or reject admission
• Upload O’level results
• Monitor offer statuses

Common Admission Status Stages on CAPS

Candidates typically see any of these:

• NOT ADMITTED (process still ongoing)
• ADMISSION IN PROGRESS (institution has forwarded your name)
• RECOMMENDED (awaiting JAMB approval)
• ADMITTED (final stage)

If a candidate rejects an offer, the system automatically frees the space for another applicant.

Course Transfer Messages

Due to low UTME scores or competitive quotas, many candidates receive Transfer Consideration Notices in CAPS.
Reasons include:

• Low UTME score for the original course
• Department admission capacity already filled
• Candidate’s O’level subjects do not match the initial course

Candidates must either accept or reject the transfer before the institution can proceed.

When Will 2025/2026 Admissions End?

Admission deadlines vary by institution, but generally:

• First batch begins around July–September 2025
• Supplementary lists run till December 2025
• Final closure for the cycle typically falls around February 2026

Candidates who fail to secure admission by this period are advised to:

• Reapply for 2026 UTME
• Consider part-time or diploma programs
• Explore open university options

Common Mistakes Candidates Make During JAMB & Admission Processes

To help candidates avoid unnecessary delays or disqualification, JAMB highlighted recurring mistakes in the 2025 cycle.

Using Unlicensed CBT Centers

Many candidates lost money or submitted invalid details because they registered at illegal centers. Only CBT centers listed on the official JAMB website should be used.

Failure to Upload O’level Results

Tens of thousands of candidates missed out on admission simply because:

• Their WAEC or NECO results were not uploaded
• They uploaded incomplete or incorrect results
• Their CBT center failed to sync their O’level database

This is one of the most common reasons for “No Admission Yet.”

Ignoring CAPS Messages

Candidates who fail to check their CAPS portal regularly often:

• Miss transfer approvals
• Miss admission offers
• Miss submission deadlines

Checking CAPS daily during the admission season is strongly recommended.

Using Wrong Email Addresses

Some candidates used:

• Wrong spellings
• Already-used emails
• Shared emails
• Fake emails created by center operators

This caused problems when retrieving passwords or receiving notifications.

Conclusion: The Future of JAMB and What 2025 Means for Candidates

The 2025 JAMB cycle has been among the most volatile in recent years the record-breaking registration numbers, more significant deployments of technology, stronger anti-malpractice initiatives, significant technical difficulties, and varying performance results and a series of key policy clarifications. In spite of the challenges, JAMB has been transforming in a manner that aims at enhancing credibility, fairness and efficiency in the tertiary admission system of the entire Nigeria.

To the candidates, it is merely one piece of advice; keep informed, keep ready, and keep going. Since registration, examinations, Post-UTME screening, Direct Entry processing, and CAPS monitoring, winning the contest of admission in Nigeria has now become a process that needs planning at an early stage and precise information as well as following the official guidelines strictly.

With the 2025/2026 admission cycle still underway, applicants are advised to be patient and observant particularly in terms of the update of their results, offers of admission, and the deadline of the institution. With high and low UTME scores, or undergraduate entry or Direct Entry, there are still opportunities in universities, polytechniques, colleges of education and innovative enterprises institutions.

After all, the purpose of JAMB will always be to secure transparent, merit-based, and accessible admissions to everyone who is qualified. As the Board continues its efforts of improving and increasing quality checks, it is making the Nigeria education system more reliable in the future.

Then keep in mind: informed candidates make the best decisions. Always keep an eye on the official JAMB channels, do not get misinformed and do everything one step at a time. With proper planning and patience, you can certainly have your dream of getting admission in the 2025/2026 academic year.