How long does the JAMB UTME exam last in 2025/2026?

How long does the JAMB UTME exam last in 2025/2026?: If you’re planning to take the JAMB UTME (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) in 2025 or 2026, you might be wondering how long the exam will take. This is an important question for anyone preparing for the exam, as knowing the duration helps you plan your study and ensure you are ready for the actual exam day.

In this article, we will discuss the expected length of the JAMB UTME exam for 2025 and 2026, break down the various sections of the exam, and provide helpful tips to prepare. Let’s go in!

Table of Contents

What is the JAMB UTME Exam?

Before we discuss how long the exam lasts, it is important to understand what the JAMB UTME exam is. The JAMB UTME is a standard test conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for candidates who want to gain admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education in Nigeria.

The exam is taken by students after completing their secondary education (usually after their WAEC or NECO exams). It is an important step in securing a spot in Nigerian higher education institutions.

Duration of the JAMB UTME Exam in 2025/2026

The duration of the JAMB UTME exam has not changed much over the years, and it is expected to be the same for 2025 and 2026. The total time you will spend in the exam hall is 2 hours. This means you have 120 minutes to complete the exam.

You should note that the time starts counting as soon as you begin the exam, and once the 2 hours are up, the exam automatically ends. So, it is very important to manage your time wisely during the exam.

What is Included in the JAMB UTME Exam?

The JAMB UTME exam tests your knowledge in four subjects. These subjects depend on the course you are applying for in university or other institutions. The exam is done on a computer and follows the Computer-Based Test (CBT) format. Below are the key subjects typically tested in the JAMB UTME:

English Language: This is a compulsory subject for all candidates. It consists of questions based on comprehension, grammar, and usage of the English language.
Mathematics, Science, and Art Subjects: Depending on your course of study, you will answer questions in either Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, or subjects related to the arts, such as Literature, Government, and Economics.

Breakdown of the JAMB UTME Exam Duration

To help you better understand how the 2 hours will be spent, here is a general breakdown of the exam:

English Language Section (for all candidates):
- Number of Questions: 60 questions.
- Time Allotted: Around 45 minutes.
The English section is usually the longest part of the exam. It tests your understanding of grammar, comprehension, and use of English.
Other Subjects (depending on your course):
- Number of Questions: 40 questions per subject.
- Time Allotted: Approximately 30 minutes for each subject.
These subjects may include Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Literature, Government, etc. Each subject will take about 30 minutes to answer. Total: 2 hours for all 4 subjects combined.

Tips for Managing Time During the JAMB UTME Exam

Time management is very important during the JAMB UTME exam. Since you only have 2 hours to answer all the questions, you need to be strategic in how you use your time. Here are some tips to help you manage your time:

Know the Time Limits for Each Section: As we mentioned, you should spend about 45 minutes on English and 30 minutes on each of your other subjects. Make sure to check the time often during the exam.
Don’t Spend Too Much Time on One Question: If you get stuck on a question, move on to the next one and come back to it later. There is no point wasting time on something you don’t know.
Practice Before the Exam: Doing practice exams can help you get used to the time limits and the types of questions. This will make you more confident when you sit for the real exam.

How to Prepare for the JAMB UTME Exam in 2025/2026

Preparing for the JAMB UTME exam is important to increase your chances of success. Here are some key tips to help you prepare well:

Start Early: Start preparing for the exam months before the exam date. The earlier you start, the more time you will have to learn and practice.
Use JAMB Past Questions: Past questions are very helpful for understanding the format of the exam and the types of questions that may appear.
Focus on Your Weak Areas: Identify the subjects or topics you are weakest in, and dedicate extra time to studying those areas.
Join a Study Group: Study groups can help you stay motivated and learn from others. You can ask questions and share tips with others in the group.
Stay Calm During the Exam: On the day of the exam, remember to stay calm. If you feel nervous, take deep breaths and focus on answering one question at a time.

RAED ALSO: Can I Get JAMB Admission Without Writing JAMB in 2025/2026?

Conclusion

In 2025 and 2026, the JAMB UTME exam will last 2 hours. This time is divided between 4 subjects, with the English Language section taking about 45 minutes and the other subjects taking around 30 minutes each. Remember that time management is key to success in this exam. With proper preparation and focus, you can do well in the JAMB UTME and take a step closer to achieving your dreams of further education in Nigeria.