The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has adjusted the arrival and examination times for candidates sitting the first session of the 2027 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Under the revised arrangement, candidates are now expected to arrive at their designated Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres by 7:30 a.m., instead of the earlier 6:30 a.m. schedule.
The examination will begin at 8:30 a.m. and end at 10:30 a.m.
JAMB announced the adjustment in its weekly bulletin released in Abuja, citing safety and logistical concerns linked to candidates travelling to examination centres very early in the morning.
The board said the concerns were particularly significant for candidates who travel long distances and may be forced to leave home before dawn to meet the previous 6:30 a.m. arrival time.
Why JAMB changed the 2027 UTME schedule
According to JAMB, the decision followed deliberations at its 2026 Management and IT Retreat, held in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, from September 6 to 11.
The retreat considered concerns raised by members of the public about the implications of the earlier arrival time, including the challenges candidates could face while travelling during the early hours.
JAMB said moving the arrival time to 7:30 a.m. would improve candidates’ safety and convenience while potentially reducing absenteeism caused by difficulties associated with the previous schedule.
The board, however, said other examination sessions would continue to operate under its established scheduling arrangements.
Preparations begin for 2027 UTME
The adjustment was among the outcomes of discussions involving JAMB management, state coordinators, heads of outstation offices and other relevant stakeholders.
Participants examined measures aimed at improving the efficiency, safety and credibility of the UTME, as well as the overall experience of candidates.
JAMB said preparations for the 2027 UTME had already commenced, despite the examination being months away.
The board said it was applying lessons from previous examinations and implementing decisions reached during the retreat to deliver a more efficient, seamless and candidate-friendly examination.
Candidates and the general public were advised to take note of the revised first-session schedule and await further official communication on the complete 2027 UTME timetable and other arrangements.
