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For many candidates preparing for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), one of the biggest fears is not the questions—but the unknown experience inside the CBT exam hall.
Questions like:.
- What does the exam hall look like?
- How does the computer system work?
- What happens after I enter?
- Will I know how to use the CBT system?
These concerns are normal, especially for first-time candidates.
The exam conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board is fully computer-based, and understanding what to expect can give you a huge advantage.
In this guide, you will learn:
- What happens from arrival to exit
- How the CBT system works
- What you will see on the screen
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Expert tips to stay calm and perform well
By the end, you will walk into your exam hall confident and prepared.
Arrival at the CBT Centre
You are expected to arrive at least 1 hour before your exam time.
At the gate:
- Security officials will check your printed JAMB slip
- You may be asked questions for verification
Late arrival can lead to disqualification.
Security Screening
Before entering, you will go through strict checks by officials working under the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.
You may be checked for:
- Phones
- Smart devices
- Unauthorized materials
👉 If found with prohibited items, you may be disqualified.
Biometric Verification
This is one of the most important steps.
Your:
- Fingerprint
- Identity
will be verified.
👉 If your fingerprint fails, you may not be allowed to write the exam.
Once verified, you will be directed into the hall.
What You Will See
- Rows of computers
- Candidates seated quietly
- Invigilators monitoring movement
- A calm but serious environment
Each candidate is assigned a specific system.
Logging Into the System
Your computer will already be set up.
You may:
- See your name on the screen
- Be guided by an invigilator
Do NOT try to operate anything until instructed.
Instructions on the Screen
Before the exam starts, instructions will appear.
Read carefully.
They include:
- Number of questions
- Time duration
- How to answer questions
The CBT system is simple.
What You Will See:
- Question displayed at the center
- Options labeled A, B, C, D
- Navigation buttons
- Timer counting down
Navigation Buttons
Common buttons include:
- Next → go to next question
- Previous → go back
- Submit → end exam
Timer
A timer is displayed on the screen.
👉 It shows how much time you have left.
To answer:
- Click on your preferred option
- It will be highlighted
- Move to the next question
You can always go back and change answers.
Your exam includes:
- Use of English (compulsory)
- 3 other subjects
Questions are mixed or grouped depending on the system.
Silent Environment
No talking is allowed.
Monitoring
Invigilators move around to:
- Ensure compliance
- Prevent malpractice
System Behavior
- Questions load instantly
- No internet browsing allowed
- System is secure
1. System Freezing
👉 Raise your hand immediately.
Do NOT panic.
2. Mistaken Click
👉 You can always change your answer before submitting.
3. Time Pressure
👉 Manage your time properly.
- Do not spend too long on one question
- Skip difficult ones and return later
- Keep an eye on the timer
- The system may submit automatically
- Or you will click submit
After submission:
- Your exam ends immediately
You will:
- Leave the hall quietly
- Follow instructions
In many cases, you may see your result shortly after.
❌ Clicking randomly
❌ Panicking during the exam
❌ Ignoring instructions
❌ Wasting too much time on one question
Many candidates report that:
- The system is easier than expected
- Fear disappears after first few questions
- Time management is the biggest challenge
- Practice CBT before exam
- Stay calm
- Trust your preparation
- Follow instructions
Understanding the CBT experience gives you confidence.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board exam is not designed to confuse you — it is designed to test your knowledge.
Once you understand:
- The environment
- The system
- The process
—you remove fear and focus on success.
English (US) ·