Thousands of Nigerian students are preparing for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) as the race for admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education intensifies.

The exam, conducted annually by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), is one of the most competitive academic assessments in Nigeria. With many institutions setting high cut-off marks for courses like medicine, law, engineering, and computer science, candidates are increasingly aiming for scores above 300 to secure admission.

Below are the key details about the 2026 UTME, including the exam date, registration timeline, requirements, and practical strategies that can help candidates achieve high scores.

Key Dates for the 2026 UTME

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has released the official timeline for the 2026 examination cycle.

UTME registration opened on January 26, 2026, and closed on February 28, 2026, while Direct Entry registration runs from March 2 to April 25, 2026.

Candidates who opted for the mock examination will sit for it on March 28, 2026, which serves as a rehearsal to familiarize students with the computer-based test system.

The main UTME examination will take place nationwide from April 16 to April 25, 2026, across accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres.

Candidates will be assigned specific exam dates, times, and venues within this period after reprinting their exam slips.

Cost of the 2026 UTME Form

JAMB introduced three main categories of application fees for the 2026 UTME.

• UTME without mock exam: ₦7,200

• UTME with mock exam: ₦8,700

• Direct Entry application: ₦5,700

  
  
  

These fees cover the registration process, CBT centre charges, the compulsory reading text, and bank charges.

Compulsory Novel for 2026 UTME Candidates

All candidates sitting for the examination must read the prescribed novel “The Lekki Headmaster” by Kabir Alabi Garba, which will be used for the Use of English section.

Questions from the novel typically appear in the comprehension and literary sections of the English examination.

What Candidates Should Not Bring to the Exam Hall

JAMB maintains strict examination rules to prevent malpractice.

Candidates are not allowed to bring:

• Mobile phones

• Smart watches or wristwatches

• Earphones

• Electronic devices

• Pens or biro

Only HB pencils are permitted in the examination hall.

How to Score 300 and Above in the 2026 UTME

Scoring 300 and above in UTME requires discipline, strategy, and proper preparation. Many top candidates adopt specific study techniques and exam strategies that give them an advantage.

Below are practical tips that can help candidates achieve high scores.

1. Study the Official JAMB Syllabus

The JAMB syllabus is the most important preparation tool for UTME.

It outlines every topic that may appear in the examination. Candidates who study outside the syllabus often waste valuable preparation time.

To maximize results:

• Download the syllabus for each subject

• Focus on topics frequently repeated in past questions

• Create a study timetable based on syllabus topics

2. Practice Past Questions Intensively

One of the most effective strategies for scoring high in UTME is solving past questions repeatedly.

Past questions help candidates:

• Understand the exam pattern

• Identify frequently tested topics

• Improve speed and accuracy

Experts recommend practicing at least 10 to 15 years of past questions before the exam.

3. Master the Computer-Based Test (CBT) System

The UTME is conducted entirely on computers.

Candidates unfamiliar with the CBT format often lose time during the exam.

To avoid this:

• Practice with CBT apps

• Use online mock tests

• Familiarize yourself with navigation tools such as “Next,” “Previous,” and “Submit”

This will help you manage time effectively during the real exam.

4. Focus on Your Strong Subjects

UTME requires candidates to write four subjects, including English.

To score above 300:

• Aim for 70–80 marks in each subject

• Spend extra time on subjects where you can easily score high

• Avoid leaving any question unanswered

Even small improvements in each subject can significantly increase your total score.

5. Study Smart, Not Just Hard

Many candidates study for long hours but still struggle because they lack effective strategies.

Effective study habits include:

• Using summary notes

• Watching educational tutorials

• Teaching difficult topics to friends

• Taking short breaks during study sessions

Studying smart improves retention and reduces exam stress.

6. Take the JAMB Mock Examination Seriously

Although the mock UTME is optional, it provides a valuable rehearsal experience.

Candidates who participate in the mock exam often perform better because they:

• Understand the CBT environment

• Learn how to manage time

• Identify areas they need to improve before the main exam.

7. Manage Your Time During the Exam

Time management is crucial in UTME.

Candidates should:

• Start with easier questions

• Avoid spending too long on one question

• Review answers before submitting

Proper time allocation ensures all questions are attempted.

8. Maintain Good Health Before the Exam

Mental alertness plays a major role in exam performance.

Candidates should:

• Get enough sleep before the exam

• Eat light meals

• Arrive early at the exam centre

Fatigue and anxiety can affect concentration during the test.

Final Advice for 2026 UTME Candidates

As the April 16–25, 2026 UTME window approaches, education experts advise candidates to intensify their preparation and avoid last-minute reading.

Success in UTME is not determined by luck but by consistent preparation, strategic studying, and familiarity with the exam format.

Candidates who combine disciplined study habits with regular practice of past questions stand the best chance of achieving scores above 300 and gaining admission into competitive university programmes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will the 2026 UTME take place?

The 2026 UTME will be conducted nationwide from April 16 to April 25, 2026 at accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres.

When did registration for the 2026 UTME start?

Registration began on January 26, 2026, and closed on February 28, 2026, according to the official timetable released by JAMB.

What novel will candidates read for the 2026 UTME?

The prescribed novel for the Use of English section is “The Lekki Headmaster” by Kabir Alabi Garba.

How many subjects are written in UTME?

Candidates write four subjects, including Use of English, which is compulsory.

What score is considered good in UTME?

A score of 250 and above is considered strong, while candidates seeking admission into highly competitive courses like medicine, law, and engineering often aim for 300 and above.

Can I score 300 in UTME?

Yes. Candidates can score above 300 by studying the JAMB syllabus, practicing past questions, mastering the CBT format, and maintaining strong time management during the exam.