JAMB clarifies undergraduates can sit UTME, warns against fake reports

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has dismissed rumours suggesting that students already enrolled in universities are barred from taking the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

During a visit to monitor the ongoing registration exercise in Port Harcourt, following the second matriculation ceremony at Wigwe University, JAMB Registrar, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, described such claims as deliberate misinformation spread by impostors.

Registrar warns students not to trust fake UTME restrictions

“Contrary to what some are saying, students who are already attending universities are fully eligible to register for UTME,” Oluyode stated. “Anyone claiming otherwise is misrepresenting the Board.”

He revealed that some individuals have gone so far as to impersonate JAMB officials, even holding press briefings in the Board’s name. “Authorities have already apprehended some of these fraudsters, including those producing fake ID cards and claiming to be acting on JAMB’s behalf,” he added.

Oluyode emphasised that students who have matriculated can still apply for a different course, transfer to another university, or start anew if they choose.

Highlighting past concerns, he pointed out that over 800,000 candidates were admitted during the previous cycle, with some seeking course or institution changes.

Candidates already in universities retain full registration rights

Regarding exam malpractice, the Registrar noted a gradual decline in infractions but warned that challenges remain.

He also called on parents to set the right example, cautioning against promoting unethical behaviour. “Many young people emulate their elders. It is essential that integrity is taught at home to prevent a culture of corruption from continuing,” Oluyode stressed.

On the Board’s readiness for this year’s registration, he acknowledged that errors occurred in 2025 but assured that measures have been implemented to prevent recurrence.

“Reports suggesting certain groups, like albinos, would be excluded from registration are completely false. All loopholes have been addressed,” he said.

JAMB currently operates 984 Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres nationwide, with the number expected to rise to 1,000. Registration will close on 28 February 2026, with no planned extension.