JAMB Extends Mock UTME to 4 Hours, Introduces Dual Sessions

JAMB Announces Longer Mock UTME with Dual Session Format for 2026

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has extended the duration of the 2026 Mock UTME, giving candidates more time compared to previous years.

Traditionally, the Mock UTME lasted two hours, but for 2026, it has been increased to four hours.

New Exam Structure

To accommodate this change, the Mock UTME will be conducted in two consecutive sessions on:

▪ Saturday, 28th March 2026

Session breakdown:

▪ First Session: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
▪ Second Session: 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Candidates are expected to participate in both sessions consecutively.

Purpose of the Extension

The extended duration is designed to:

▪ Give candidates more time to familiarise themselves with the CBT environment
▪ Reduce anxiety before the main UTME
▪ Provide a more realistic exam experience

Important Note

Candidates are strongly advised to take note of this new four-hour format and prepare accordingly for the Mock UTME.

JAMB, in a statement on Monday, explained that failure to participate in the mock UTME after indicating interest during registration and securing a slot deprives other interested candidates of the opportunity and will not be condoned.

JAMB noted that although the mock UTME was designed as an optional preparatory exercise, it is limited to a specific number of candidates; hence, indicating interest secures a valuable slot that could otherwise have been allocated to another candidate.

“Absence from the mock UTME after indicating interest will attract appropriate consequences.

All affected candidates are therefore strongly advised to make the necessary arrangements to participate in the Mock UTME scheduled for Saturday, 28th March 2026,” JAMB said.