The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced the successful registration of over two million candidates for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), scheduled to take place in April.
This was disclosed in the board’s latest weekly bulletin released on March 8, 2025.
According to JAMB, a total of 2,030,627 candidates successfully completed their registration process, marking a significant milestone in the annual examination cycle. However, this figure does not include candidates who have registered to take the exam at foreign centers.
The registration process, which commenced on February 3, 2025, officially ended with a strong turnout of prospective tertiary education applicants.
In addition to the main UTME registrations, JAMB revealed that 200,115 candidates have opted to participate in the optional mock UTME scheduled for April 5, 2025.
This mock examination serves as a preparatory test to help candidates familiarize themselves with the UTME format and assess their readiness for the main exam. Among these, 630 candidates have also registered for the trial mock examination, which will take place on the same day.
Security Measures and Anti-Cheating Strategies
With registration now concluded, JAMB has shifted its focus to ensuring the security and integrity of the UTME. The board has introduced new anti-cheating measures to curb examination malpractice and protect the credibility of the test. These measures have already led to the arrest of several candidates attempting to gain admission using forged A-level results.
JAMB has issued a stern warning to all candidates against engaging in fraudulent activities or any form of malpractice.
The board has implemented strict monitoring systems, including biometric verification and AI-powered surveillance, to detect and penalize offenders.
Candidates found guilty of any malpractice risk disqualification from the examination and further legal consequences.
In its advisory, JAMB emphasized that UTME registration is entirely separate from other national examinations such as the West African Examination Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO).
The board urged stakeholders, including students, parents, and school administrators, to acknowledge this distinction and strictly adhere to JAMB’s registration protocols.
Exam Readiness and Guidelines
As the examination date approaches, JAMB has reiterated the importance of preparation for all registered candidates.
The board advised candidates to make use of the available study materials, including past questions, syllabuses, and JAMB-approved textbooks.
Additionally, candidates were reminded to confirm their examination centers ahead of time and adhere to the provided guidelines to ensure a smooth examination process.
The board also encouraged candidates to take advantage of the optional mock UTME, as it provides a valuable opportunity to experience the examination system under real test conditions.
Candidates who registered for the mock exam are expected to check their centers and print their mock examination slips from April 2, 2025.
Public Reactions and Stakeholder Responses
The announcement of over two million registered candidates has generated reactions from various education stakeholders.
Some tertiary institutions have expressed optimism about the increasing number of applicants, citing it as a positive indicator of sustained interest in higher education.
Parents and candidates have also commended JAMB for the smooth registration process and the introduction of advanced security measures.
However, some candidates expressed concerns over the examination’s competitiveness, given the large number of registrants.
Meanwhile, private education consultants and tutorial centers have reported increased enrollment in their preparatory classes, as students seek additional support to excel in the highly competitive examination.
Conclusion
With the 2025 UTME now set for April 25, candidates are expected to remain diligent in their preparation while adhering to JAMB’s guidelines.
The board has assured all candidates of a fair and transparent examination process, emphasizing that its new anti-malpractice strategies will ensure credibility and merit-based admission into tertiary institutions across the country.
As the examination date draws near, all eyes will be on JAMB to deliver a seamless and efficient testing process, reinforcing its commitment to academic excellence and integrity in Nigeria’s educational system.
