The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in Nigeria assigns examination centers to candidates during the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration process. These centers are typically allocated based on the candidate’s chosen examination town and are indicated on the examination slip. However, circumstances may arise that necessitate a change of the assigned examination center. This guide outlines the steps and considerations for candidates seeking to change their JAMB examination center for the 2025/2026 UTME.
Contents
Understanding JAMB’s Policy on Examination Center Changes
JAMB maintains strict policies regarding the modification of examination details to uphold the integrity and smooth conduct of the UTME. As a result, changes to examination centers are generally not permitted once they have been assigned. This policy ensures standardized logistics and security measures across all centers.
Steps to Take If a Change Is Absolutely Necessary
While JAMB’s official stance discourages changes to examination centers, candidates facing exceptional circumstances may consider the following steps:
- Visit the Nearest JAMB Office:
- Proceed to the closest JAMB state or zonal office to discuss your situation.
- Ensure you bring all relevant documentation, including your UTME registration slip and any evidence supporting the need for a change.
- Present a Formal Request:
- Clearly articulate the reasons necessitating the change of examination center.
- Provide any supporting documents that validate your claims.
- Await Official Response:
- After submitting your request, JAMB officials will review it to determine its validity.
- Be prepared for the possibility that the request may be denied, given the board’s stringent policies.
Important Considerations
- Timeliness: Initiate any requests for changes well ahead of the examination date. Last-minute requests are less likely to be accommodated.
- Legitimacy of Reason: Only serious and verifiable reasons, such as sudden relocation due to unforeseen circumstances, are likely to be considered.
- Official Channels: Always communicate directly with official JAMB offices. Avoid third-party agents or unverified sources that may promise changes for a fee.
Conclusion
While the possibility of changing your JAMB examination center for the 2025/2026 UTME is limited and generally discouraged, candidates with compelling reasons should promptly approach official JAMB offices to discuss their situation. It’s crucial to understand that such requests are exceptions rather than the norm, and approval is not guaranteed. Therefore, during the initial registration process, candidates are strongly advised to select examination towns and centers that are most convenient and accessible to them to avoid potential challenges.
