The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially fixed the date for its 2025 mop-up examination, offering a second chance to thousands of candidates who were unable to participate in the main Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

According to a statement released by JAMB’s Public Communications Adviser, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, the board has approved over 96,838 candidates to take part in the special mop-up exercise. This announcement brings clarity to candidates who missed the earlier phases of the UTME due to various issues, including biometric failures and technical challenges at Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres.

Who Is Eligible for the JAMB Mop-Up Exam 2025?

JAMB clarified that this mop-up exam is not open to the general public. Only a specific group of affected candidates are eligible to participate. These include:

5,096 spillover candidates from previous UTME sessions
Candidates who experienced biometric verification failures during the 2025 main UTME
91,742 candidates who were absent during both the main and rescheduled UTME sessions

This mop-up exam aims to accommodate genuinely affected candidates and uphold fairness in Nigeria’s tertiary admissions process.

JAMB Exam Slip Printing for Mop-Up Starts Soon

JAMB also announced that candidates can begin printing their exam notification slips from Monday, 23rd June 2025. The slips will contain vital information, including:

Candidates are encouraged to check their portal early and prepare ahead of the examination.

Exam Centres and Supervision

The JAMB mop-up exam 2025 will be conducted in 183 accredited CBT centres across the country. Additional backup centres have been placed on standby to ensure smooth operations.

In its bid to ensure transparency and prevent future malpractice, JAMB has delisted 113 CBT centres that were found guilty of technical failures, poor conduct, or involvement in exam malpractice during the main UTME. These centres are currently under investigation and may face further disciplinary actions, including legal proceedings.

JAMB Intensifies Crackdown on Malpractice

In the official release, JAMB disclosed that its investigations have uncovered several malpractice syndicates, including:

With support from the State Security Service (SSS), Nigeria Police Force, and the NSCDC, the board is pursuing legal action against offenders and tightening security across all examination processes.

Changes in Exam Towns and Centre Reassignments

Due to the ongoing investigation, JAMB has deactivated multiple examination towns. Candidates previously assigned to these locations will be reallocated to nearby centres. The board has appealed for patience and understanding from candidates and their families, emphasizing that these steps are essential to restoring integrity in Nigeria’s exam system.

Strong Warning Against Impersonation

JAMB issued a stern warning against impersonation, particularly by undergraduate students. Candidates caught hiring impersonators may face:

Automatic disqualification
Expulsion from their current institution
Prosecution under the Examination Malpractice Act of 1999

The board stated:

“Any undergraduate caught impersonating another candidate will not only face criminal prosecution but will also be reported to their institution for disciplinary action. Violating your matriculation oath has serious consequences.”

Key Guidelines for the Mop-Up Exam

Candidates sitting for the JAMB mop-up exam 2025 must adhere to the following:

Arrive at their designated CBT centre at least one hour before the exam begins
Present their exam notification slip at the entrance
Follow all instructions from invigilators and security personnel
Avoid coming with prohibited items, including mobile phones and smart watches

The first session will commence by 8:00 AM, with strict supervision across all centres.

What to Know Before the Mop-Up Exam

Date of Exam: Saturday, June 28, 2025
Time: First session begins at 8:00 a.m.
Arrival: Candidates should report to their centres at least one hour before their scheduled time
Security Measures: The mop-up exam will be conducted under tight security, with independent invigilators and law enforcement officers stationed at all centres

Final Words

By fixing the 2025 mop-up exam, JAMB has reaffirmed its commitment to fairness, integrity, and equal opportunity in the UTME process. The exercise is expected to give over 96,000 affected candidates the chance to pursue their academic dreams without being penalized for challenges beyond their control.

Candidates are advised to stay informed through JAMB’s official portal and avoid unofficial agents or websites promising admission assistance.