The Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), organized by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), is one of the most important exams for students in Nigeria seeking admission into tertiary institutions. Every year, millions of candidates register for this competitive exam, with the hopes of securing a place in their desired university or college.
Succeeding in the UTME is not just about being intelligent—it’s about being strategic, prepared, and focused. Whether you’re taking the exam for the first time or giving it another shot, these top 10 practical tips will help you perform at your best and improve your chances of securing admission.
1. Understand the UTME Format
Before you even begin studying, it’s crucial to understand the structure of the exam. The UTME typically consists of four subjects—English Language (compulsory) and three other subjects related to your chosen course of study. Each subject has 40–50 questions, with the total exam scored out of 400 marks.
Understanding the format helps you:
- Know what to expect on exam day.
- Allocate time appropriately during the exam.
- Tailor your study plan to specific subjects and question types.
Familiarize yourself with past questions and the official JAMB syllabus to get a solid grasp of the expected content.
2. Choose the Right Subject Combination
This is a mistake many candidates make: picking the wrong combination of subjects for their intended course of study. If your subject choices do not align with your desired course, you risk being disqualified from admission—even if your score is high.
Before registering:
- Research the requirements of your chosen course on JAMB’s brochure or the university’s website.
- Speak to school counselors, teachers, or admission officers to confirm your subject combination.
3. Create a Realistic Study Schedule
Success in UTME requires consistent preparation. A well-structured and realistic study timetable can make a huge difference. Break down the syllabus for each subject and allocate study hours weekly.
Here’s how to make it effective:
- Set daily or weekly goals (e.g., “Finish 2 chapters of Biology”).
- Mix subjects to avoid burnout—don’t study the same subject all day.
- Include time for revision and practice tests.
Stick to your schedule as much as possible, but be flexible enough to adjust if needed.
4. Use the Official JAMB Syllabus and Recommended Texts
JAMB provides an official syllabus and reading list for all subjects. This document outlines the topics and subtopics that will appear in the exam and recommends textbooks to cover them.
Here’s why using the syllabus is a game-changer:
- It keeps you focused on relevant content.
- Prevents wasting time on unnecessary topics.
- Helps you track your progress through the subject material.
Avoid relying solely on random materials or hearsay. Instead, work with trusted sources.
5. Practice with Past Questions and Mock Exams
There’s no substitute for practice. Solving past UTME questions helps you become familiar with the question patterns, difficulty level, and time management.
Benefits of using past questions:
- Identifies your strengths and weak areas.
- Boosts confidence.
- Helps you simulate real exam conditions.
Additionally, register for mock UTME exams if available. These tests replicate the experience of the real thing and reduce anxiety on the actual exam day.
6. Master Time Management Skills
Each subject in the UTME typically has 40 questions to be answered in 40 minutes. That’s 1 minute per question—so there’s no time to waste.
Here are some tips to manage your time:
- Start with questions you’re confident about.
- Don’t get stuck on difficult questions—mark and return later.
- Keep an eye on the clock but don’t panic.
Practicing with timers during mock tests will help you build speed and accuracy.
7. Use Technology to Your Advantage
Today’s digital age offers numerous tools to make studying easier and more interactive. Here are some resources:
- Mobile apps like Myschool, Pass.ng, or JAMB CBT Practice can help you revise on the go.
- YouTube tutorials can simplify complex topics.
- Online study groups or forums give room for peer-to-peer learning.
However, avoid distractions from social media or irrelevant content while studying online.
8. Take Care of Your Mental and Physical Health
No matter how prepared you are, poor health can ruin everything. Success in UTME requires you to be in your best mental and physical state.
Simple ways to maintain good health:
- Get enough sleep—especially before the exam.
- Eat balanced meals; don’t skip breakfast on exam day.
- Exercise lightly to stay energized.
- Take short breaks during study periods to avoid burnout.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to someone—family, friends, or a counselor.
9. Understand the CBT System and Exam Day Procedure
Since JAMB adopted the Computer-Based Test (CBT) format, candidates need to be comfortable using a computer. If you’re not familiar with CBT:
- Enroll in a CBT training session or use CBT practice software.
- Practice navigating the system—e.g., moving between questions, submitting answers, using the calculator tool.
On exam day:
- Arrive at least 1 hour early.
- Bring your JAMB registration slip and a valid ID.
- Stay calm, follow instructions, and focus.
Avoid any form of malpractice; JAMB uses CCTV and biometric verification to track cheating.
10. Stay Motivated and Believe in Yourself
Finally, mindset matters. UTME is challenging, but it’s not impossible. Many students like you have passed it with flying colors—and so can you.
Here’s how to keep yourself motivated:
- Visualize your goal—imagine yourself in your dream university.
- Celebrate small victories (e.g., mastering a tough topic).
- Surround yourself with positive influences—friends or mentors who support your dreams.
- Keep a positive attitude even when things get tough.
Believe that your hard work will pay off. You don’t have to be perfect—just be consistent and focused.
Final Thoughts
The UTME is a significant stepping stone in your academic journey, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. By understanding the exam format, preparing smartly, and maintaining a positive mindset, you give yourself the best possible chance of success.
Remember: Success is a journey, not a destination. Stay committed, trust the process, and never stop believing in your potential.
