By A1NEWS Investigations
ABUJA — September 14, 2026
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has revised the arrival and examination timetable for candidates taking part in the first session of the 2027 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), citing safety and logistical concerns linked to very early-morning travel.
In an announcement contained in its weekly bulletin released in Abuja, the board directed candidates to arrive at their assigned Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres by 7:30 a.m., departing from an earlier schedule that required arrival by 6:30 a.m.
The UTME session will now begin at 8:30 a.m. and end at 10:30 a.m., according to the revised timetable.
JAMB Shifts Arrival Time to Reduce Dawn Travel Risks
JAMB explained that the adjustment was designed to address real-world challenges faced by candidates—especially those required to travel long distances to reach examination centres.
The board noted that many candidates may have to leave home before dawn under the previous arrangement, a situation it said could increase risks and inconvenience, including difficulties on the road during the early hours.
By pushing arrival to 7:30 a.m., JAMB said candidates will have more time for travel, preparation, and compliance with centre procedures—improving both safety and convenience.
Revised Timetable: 7:30 a.m. Arrival, 8:30 a.m. Start, 10:30 a.m. Close
Under the updated plan for the first session of the 2027 UTME:
- Arrival at CBT centre: 7:30 a.m.
- Examination commencement: 8:30 a.m.
- Examination close: 10:30 a.m.
JAMB added that candidates should take note of the changes and remain attentive to further official communications that will clarify the complete 2027 timetable and other examination arrangements.
Decision Followed 2026 Management and IT Retreat
JAMB said the adjustment followed extensive deliberations at its 2026 Management and IT Retreat, held in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, between September 6 and 11, 2026.
The retreat, according to the board, reviewed concerns raised by members of the public regarding the implications of earlier arrival times. Stakeholders reportedly examined how such timing could affect candidates’ ability to travel safely, arrive on time, and complete the examination without avoidable disruptions.
Goal: Improve Safety, Credibility, Efficiency, and Reduce Absenteeism
JAMB stated that the timetable change is expected to:
- enhance candidate safety and comfort
- reduce logistical stress linked to dawn travel
- improve overall examination experience
- potentially lower absenteeism caused by challenges under the earlier schedule
The board also emphasized that the updated session timing forms part of broader efforts to refine the UTME process.
Other UTME Sessions to Keep Established Scheduling Patterns
While confirming the revision for the first session, JAMB said other examination sessions would continue to follow its established scheduling arrangements.
The board stressed that preparations for the 2027 UTME had already begun, with implementation focused on lessons learned from prior examinations and decisions reached during the retreat.
As the 2027 UTME approaches, JAMB is urging candidates and the general public to note the timetable update and await subsequent official announcements on the complete examination schedule. The board insists the changes are aimed at delivering a more seamless and candidate-friendly examination process.
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