By Ayomide Otitoju
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 schedule, candidates are now required to arrive at their designated Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres by 7:30 a.m., instead of the earlier 6:30 a.m. reporting time.
The examination will commence at 8:30 a.m. and end at 10:30 a.m.
JAMB announced the adjustment in its weekly bulletin released in Abuja, saying it was aimed at addressing safety and logistical concerns associated with early-morning travel.
The board said the concerns were particularly significant for candidates travelling long distances to their examination centres and who might have to leave home before dawn.
According to JAMB, the decision followed deliberations at its 2026 Management and Information Technology 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 earlier reporting time and the difficulties candidates could face travelling in the early hours.
JAMB said the revised schedule would improve candidates’ safety and convenience while reducing absenteeism linked to early-morning travel challenges.
The board added that other examination sessions would retain the established scheduling arrangements.
It said preparations for the 2027 UTME had already begun, with measures being taken to apply lessons from previous examinations and implement decisions reached at the retreat.
JAMB said the objective was to deliver a more efficient, seamless and candidate-friendly examination.
Candidates and the general public were advised to take note of the adjustment and await further official communication on the complete 2027 UTME timetable and other arrangements.
