JAMB has adjusted the arrival time for candidates sitting the first session of the 2027 UTME.
Candidates are now expected to arrive at their CBT centres by 7:30am instead of the previous 6:30am.
The examination will commence at 8:30am and end at 10:30am.
The adjustment is aimed at addressing safety and logistical concerns associated with very early morning movement by candidates.
This is particularly relevant for candidates travelling considerable distances to their examination centres.
The disclosure was contained in a statement issued by JAMB spokesperson, Dr Fabian Benjamin.
Benjamin said the decision followed extensive deliberations at the Board’s 2026 Management and IT Retreat held in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.
The retreat held from September 6 to 11, 2026.
He said concerns raised by members of the public about the previous early arrival time were carefully considered.
“The adjustment is aimed at addressing concerns over the safety and logistical challenges associated with very early-morning movement by candidates, particularly those travelling considerable distances to their designated Computer-Based Test centres,” he said.
The Board considered the difficulties candidates could encounter when travelling before dawn.
It concluded that a later arrival time would improve their safety and convenience.
Benjamin added that the new arrangement could also reduce the number of candidates who might miss their examinations.
Other examination sessions will continue to follow the Board’s established scheduling arrangements.
The adjustment was one of the outcomes of the deliberations at the retreat.
The retreat brought together JAMB management, state coordinators, heads of outstation offices and other stakeholders.
Participants examined measures to improve the efficiency, safety, credibility and overall candidate experience of the UTME.
Although the 2027 UTME is still months away, JAMB said preparations have already commenced.
The Board said its objective is to deliver a more efficient, seamless and candidate-friendly examination.
Candidates and the general public were advised to await further official communication on the complete 2027 UTME timetable.
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