UTME 2025: JAMB exam is not internet based – Registrar clarifies

JAMB Registrar, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, clarified that the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is not internet-based, but conducted via a Local Area Network (LAN) within examination centers, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted exams. 

Here’s a more detailed explanation:

• UTME is not internet-dependent:The examination will be conducted using a Local Area Network (LAN) within the accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centers. This means that candidates will not need to worry about internet disruptions, network congestion, or slow connections during the exam. 
• LAN Connectivity Ensures Smooth Exams:JAMB emphasizes that the LAN-based system ensures all candidates have a smooth and uninterrupted exam experience, regardless of internet connectivity in their areas. 
• Addressing Concerns:This clarification was made to address concerns from candidates, parents, and stakeholders who worried that poor internet access might affect the examination process. 
• 2025 UTME Registration:Registration for the 2025 UTME officially closed on March 8th, 2025. 
• 2.03 Million Candidates Registered:Over 2 million candidates successfully completed their UTME registration process by Saturday, March 8th, 2025. 

This clarification was made by the Registrar, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, during a courtesy visit by the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) to his office in Bwari on February 25, 2025.

Prof. Oloyede clarified that the misconception that the UTME depends on internet connectivity has contributed to concerns about potential technical glitches during the 2025 examination.

“The Board uses Local Area Network (LAN), which is a computer network that interconnects computers within a limited area such as a residence, campus, or building, using its own network protocols and is locally managed,” the statement read. 

Oloyede explained that LANs enable data distribution and network sharing within a confined area. He emphasized that the data is encrypted and secured with additional safety measures before being made accessible on candidates’ computer terminals to initiate the examination.

Mandatory NIN for registration
On JAMB’s partnership with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Prof. Oloyede reaffirmed that possessing a National Identification Number (NIN) remains a prerequisite for UTME registration.

He addressed concerns regarding data correction and changes obtained from NIMC, cautioning that any modifications must be justified.

“Change can occur when it becomes inevitable and where there is an apparent error, but this would not be done without a footnote to safeguard the integrity of the system,” he said.

He advised candidates and stakeholders to utilize the “REQUERY” feature on JAMB’s portal to resolve any discrepancies instead of attempting to erase or alter historical records.

Prof. Oloyede also clarified that UTME registration is distinct from school-based examinations like those conducted by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO).

He urged stakeholders to recognize this difference and ensure compliance with JAMB’s registration protocols.

The examination board disclosed that the 2025 UTME registration deadline remains March 8, 2025, with no extensions. The registration process began on February 3 and will close as scheduled.

The examination will commence on March 8, 2025.
JAMB has also outlined the registration costs: UTME candidates will pay N7,200, Direct Entry applicants N5,700, and those opting for a mock trial N8,700.

Additionally, a separate mock trial for future candidates has been introduced at a cost of N3,500.