The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has begun early arrangements for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination with plans to accredit 1,039 Computer Based Test centres nationwide. The move forms part of JAMB’s yearly quality control process aimed at ensuring that centres used for the UTME meet approved standards and are capable of providing a seamless and credible examination experience for candidates across the country.
According to the Board, multiple accreditation teams have been dispatched to different states to evaluate CBT centres seeking approval for the 2026 exercise. The inspection covers both newly registered centres and those that hosted previous UTME examinations, as past participation does not guarantee continued approval. Each centre is expected to demonstrate compliance with current technical, operational, and security requirements set by JAMB.
JAMB Registrar, Professor Is’haq Oloyede, has stressed that the accreditation exercise plays a critical role in protecting the integrity of the UTME. He noted that the Board regularly reviews its operational standards to address recurring challenges such as technical disruptions, security lapses, and examination malpractice. Centres that fail to meet the required benchmarks during inspection will not be allowed to conduct the 2026 examination, irrespective of their history.
The assessment process includes a thorough review of computer hardware, network configuration, and the availability of dependable power supply. Inspectors also check security measures, including surveillance systems, as well as the general suitability of the testing environment. Factors such as seating capacity, ventilation, and candidate control procedures are carefully considered before a centre is approved.
In its efforts to further combat malpractice, JAMB has introduced stricter regulations for CBT centre operators and examination personnel. Individuals linked to centres previously penalised for malpractice are being blocked from re entering the system. The Board has also confirmed that computer systems associated with disqualified centres will remain permanently banned from UTME use, even if they are sold or relocated.
The accreditation exercise is expected to positively impact candidates preparing for the 2026 UTME by improving the reliability and fairness of the examination process. Upon completion of the inspections, JAMB will release an official list of approved CBT centres, from which candidates must select during registration. Candidates have been advised to ensure they register only at accredited centres to avoid unnecessary issues.
Overall, the planned accreditation of 1,039 CBT centres reflects JAMB’s ongoing commitment to strengthening examination standards and delivering a more secure, efficient, and transparent UTME for candidates nationwide.