The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially closed the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration, setting a new record with over 2 million candidates registered.
According to JAMB, 2,030,627 candidates successfully completed their registration before the deadline on March 8, 2025, securing their place for the examination scheduled to begin on April 25, 2025.
One of the Highest Registrations in History
The over 2 million registrations mark one of the highest numbers ever recorded in JAMB history. This massive number reflects the growing demand for higher education in Nigeria as thousands of students strive to secure admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
With limited admission spaces in Nigerian tertiary institutions, the competition for available slots will be tougher than ever. Candidates will need to prepare thoroughly to score high and increase their chances of securing admission.
Why More Students Are Registering for JAMB
Several factors may have contributed to the high number of registrations this year, including:
- Increased Awareness: More students are becoming aware of the importance of writing JAMB early to secure admission.
- Growing Population of School Leavers: Each year, more secondary school graduates seek university admission, increasing the number of UTME applicants.
- Fewer Alternative Admission Routes: With strict regulations on Direct Entry admissions and the decline of some diploma programs, more students now rely on UTME for university admission.
- Post-Pandemic Recovery: Some students who deferred their admission plans in previous years are now registering to sit for the exam.
Over 200,000 Candidates to Take Mock UTME
As part of the preparation process, JAMB also revealed that 200,115 candidates have registered for the optional mock UTME, scheduled for April 5, 2025.
The mock UTME is designed to help candidates familiarize themselves with the Computer-Based Test (CBT) system and get a feel of the actual exam environment before the main UTME.
Additionally, 630 candidates registered for the trial mock examination, which will take place on the same date.
JAMB Introduces Stricter Measures to Prevent Exam Malpractice
With such a large number of candidates set to sit for the UTME, JAMB has assured the public that it has tightened security measures to prevent exam malpractice and fraud.
The Board has already made several arrests of candidates attempting to use forged A-level results for admission, signaling a crackdown on dishonest practices.
JAMB has warned that any candidate caught cheating will face serious consequences, including being banned from taking the exam and possible prosecution.
What This Means for Candidates
With over 2 million candidates competing for limited admission slots, this year’s UTME will be highly competitive. Candidates must:
- Prepare intensively by studying past questions and practicing with CBT platforms.
- Avoid any form of malpractice, as JAMB’s monitoring systems are stricter than ever.
- Stay updated on exam schedules, including printing their examination slip to confirm their center and time.
The 2025 UTME is set to begin on April 25, and JAMB has advised all candidates to remain focused and disciplined as they prepare for this crucial step toward securing their admission.