We are dealing with HOW TO PREPARE AND PASS JAMB SUCCESSFULLY
JAMB is a national body that conducts the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for prospective candidates who wish to enroll in various undergraduate programmes.
JAMB also administers the Direct Entry (DE) exam for candidates who have already obtained a diploma, NCE, or IJMB and want to upgrade to a degree.
The JAMB exam is very important because it determines your eligibility and suitability for your chosen course and institution. It also helps to regulate the quality and standard of education in Nigeria.
However, the JAMB exam is also very competitive and challenging, as millions of candidates apply every year for limited slots. According to the JAMB Registrar, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, a total of 2,053,107 candidates registered for the 2021 UTME/DE exam, out of which only 1,338,687 candidates scored 120 and above, which is the minimum cut-off mark for admission into most institutions.
The cut-off marks vary depending on the course and institution, but some of the most sought-after courses, such as Medicine, Law, Engineering, and Accounting, require scores of 200 and above.
Therefore, if you want to ace the JAMB exam and secure admission into your dream course and institution, you need to prepare well and use the best resources available to you.
In this blog post, we will share with you some tips and tricks on how to prepare for the JAMB exam and achieve a high score.
Whether you are a UTME or DE candidate, you will find this post useful and informative. So, let’s get started!
Hello, this is Bing. I am glad you are interested in preparing for the JAMB exam. The JAMB exam is a very important step in your academic journey, as it determines your eligibility and chances of getting admitted into your desired university and course of study. Therefore, it is essential that you prepare well and follow some effective tips and strategies to ace the exam.
In this blog post, I will explain in detail the various aspects of the JAMB exam, such as its format, syllabus, scoring, and registration. I will also provide you with some useful resources and tools to help you create a personalized study plan, practice mock tests, and manage your time and stress. By the end of this post, you will have a clear idea of what to expect from the JAMB exam and how to approach it with confidence and success.
Section 1: Understanding the JAMB Exam
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is a Nigerian entrance examination board for tertiary-level institutions. It is responsible for conducting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for prospective undergraduates into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education1. The UTME is a computer-based test (CBT) that assesses your knowledge and skills in four subjects: English Language (compulsory), Mathematics, and two other subjects related to your chosen course of study2. You can choose from 23 subjects available on the JAMB syllabus3.
The UTME consists of 180 multiple-choice questions, with 60 questions for English Language and 40 questions each for the other three subjects. You have two hours (120 minutes) to complete the exam. The exam is scored on a scale of 0 to 400, with each subject contributing 100 marks. Your total score is calculated by adding up your scores in the four subjects2.
The UTME syllabus is based on the senior secondary school curriculum and covers the topics and objectives that you are expected to know for each subject. You can access the syllabus online on the JAMB website or download it as a PDF file3. The syllabus also provides you with a list of recommended textbooks for each subject that you can use to prepare for the exam.
To register for the UTME, you need to create a profile on the JAMB website using your email address and phone number. You will then receive a confirmation code that you will use to purchase an ePIN at any accredited bank or online platform. You will also need to obtain a National Identification Number (NIN) from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) before you can register for the exam. After purchasing the ePIN, you will proceed to any accredited CBT centre to complete your registration by providing your biometric data, passport photograph, and personal details. You will also select your preferred exam date, time, and centre from the available options.
Section 2: Setting Your Goals
Setting specific and achievable goals for the UTME is very important, as it will help you focus your efforts and measure your progress. Your goals should be based on your desired university and course of study, as well as your current level of preparation.
To set your goals, you need to first research the admission requirements and cut-off marks for your chosen university and course of study. You can find this information on the websites of the universities or on online platforms such as [JAMB Cut Off Mark] or [MySchoolGist]. You should also check the subject combination that is required for your course of study on the JAMB brochure.
Based on this information, you can determine your target score for the UTME. Your target score should be higher than or equal to the cut-off mark for your desired university and course of study. For example, if you want to study Medicine at University of Lagos (UNILAG), you need to score at least 200 in UTME. Therefore, your target score should be 200 or above.
You should also assess your current level of preparation by taking a diagnostic test or a past question paper. This will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses in each subject and give you an idea of how much you need to improve. You can find past question papers online on websites such as [JAMB Past Questions] or [Past Questions Forum].
After setting your goals, you should write them down and review them regularly. You should also track your progress by taking mock tests and practice exams periodically. This will help you monitor your improvement and adjust your goals if necessary.
Section 3: Creating a Study Plan
Creating a well-structured study plan is essential for effective preparation for the UTME. A study plan will help you organize your time, prioritize your tasks, and cover all the topics and objectives in the syllabus.
To create a study plan, you need to follow these steps:
- Step 1: Estimate the number of hours you can devote to studying each day or week. Consider your other commitments, such as school, work, or extracurricular activities, and allocate enough time for rest and recreation.
- Step 2: Divide the syllabus into manageable units or sections based on the topics and objectives. You can use the JAMB syllabus as a guide or create your own outline.
- Step 3: Assign a specific time frame for each unit or section. You can use a calendar, a planner, or an app to schedule your study sessions. Make sure you allocate enough time for each subject and topic, depending on your level of difficulty and familiarity.
- Step 4: Set daily or weekly goals and tasks for each study session. For example, you can set a goal to read a chapter from a textbook, take notes, or solve some practice questions. You can also set a task to review previous topics or revise key concepts.
- Step 5: Stick to your study plan and follow it consistently. Avoid distractions, such as social media, games, or TV, during your study time. If you encounter any problems or challenges, seek help from your teachers, tutors, or peers.
Some tools and apps that can help you create and manage your study plan are:
- [Google Calendar]: A free online calendar that allows you to create events, reminders, and tasks for your study schedule. You can also sync it with your phone or other devices.
- [Evernote]: A note-taking app that lets you organize your notes, documents, and images in one place. You can also access them from any device or share them with others.
- [Todoist]: A task management app that helps you create and track your goals and tasks for each study session. You can also set deadlines, priorities, and reminders for your tasks.
- [Quizlet]: A flashcard app that helps you memorize and recall information using interactive games and quizzes. You can also create your own flashcards or use existing ones from other users.
Section 4: Recommended Study Resources
Having the right study materials is crucial for preparing for the UTME. You should use reliable and updated resources that cover the syllabus and provide you with adequate practice and feedback.
Some of the essential study materials that you should have are:
- Textbooks: Textbooks are the primary source of information and explanation for each subject. You should use the textbooks that are recommended by JAMB in the syllabus3. You can also use other textbooks that are relevant and comprehensive.
- Past Questions: Past questions are the best way to familiarize yourself with the exam format, style, and difficulty level. They also help you test your knowledge and skills in each subject. You should solve as many past questions as possible from different years and sources. You can find past questions online on websites such as [JAMB Past Questions] or [Past Questions Forum]. You can also buy hard copies from bookstores or vendors.
- Online Resources: Online resources are useful for supplementing your textbooks and past questions. They provide you with additional information, explanation, examples, and exercises for each subject. They also offer interactive features, such as videos, animations, simulations, and quizzes. Some of the online resources that you can use are:
- [Khan Academy]: A free online learning platform that offers courses and lessons on various subjects, such as Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, English Language, etc.
- [Pass.ng]: A paid online platform that provides JAMB-specific courses and lessons on various subjects. It also offers mock tests, practice questions, solutions, explanations, tips, and tricks for the UTME.
- [JAMB CBT Practice App]: A free mobile app that allows you to practice JAMB questions offline on your phone or tablet. It also provides instant feedback, performance analysis, and progress tracking.
Section 5: Effective Study Techniques
Using effective study techniques is important for making the most of your study time and improving your retention and comprehension of the material. Some of the study techniques that you can use are:
- Active Learning: Active learning involves engaging with the material actively rather than passively. It means that you do not just read or listen to the material but also interact with it by asking questions, summarizing it in your own
words, applying it to problems, or teaching it to others. Active learning helps you deepen your understanding and recall the material better.
- Note-taking: Note-taking is the process of recording the main points, ideas, or facts from the material that you are studying. Note-taking helps you organize and summarize the material, as well as highlight the important or difficult parts. You can use different methods of note-taking, such as outlining, mapping, charting, or Cornell method.
- Summarization: Summarization is the process of condensing the material that you have studied into a brief and concise form. Summarization helps you review and reinforce the material, as well as identify the key concepts and connections. You can use different techniques of summarization, such as paraphrasing, bullet points, keywords, or diagrams.
- Tackling Difficult Subjects or Topics: Tackling difficult subjects or topics is the process of overcoming the challenges or obstacles that you face while studying. Tackling difficult subjects or topics helps you improve your confidence and competence in the material, as well as avoid procrastination and frustration. You can use different strategies for tackling difficult subjects or topics, such as breaking them down into smaller parts, using analogies or examples, seeking help from others, or revisiting them later.
Section 6: Time Management
Time management is the skill of planning and controlling how you spend your time on specific activities. Time management is essential for maximizing your productivity and efficiency while studying for the UTME. Some of the time management techniques that you can use are:
- Prioritization: Prioritization is the process of ranking your tasks or activities according to their importance and urgency. Prioritization helps you focus on the most critical and relevant tasks or activities first, while postponing or delegating the less important or urgent ones. You can use different methods of prioritization, such as Eisenhower matrix, ABCDE method, or Pareto principle.
- Scheduling: Scheduling is the process of allocating a specific time and duration for each task or activity that you need to complete. Scheduling helps you create a realistic and feasible plan for your study sessions, as well as avoid conflicts or overlaps with other commitments. You can use different tools for scheduling, such as calendars, planners, or apps.
- Execution: Execution is the process of carrying out your tasks or activities according to your plan. Execution helps you achieve your goals and objectives within the given time frame, as well as monitor your progress and performance. You can use different techniques for execution, such as Pomodoro technique, batching, or Parkinson’s law.
While time management is important for effective study, it is also important to take breaks and relax from time to time. Breaks and relaxation help you prevent burnout and fatigue, as well as refresh your mind and body. You can use different methods for breaks and relaxation, such as meditation, exercise, music, or hobbies.
Section 7: Mock Tests and Practice
Mock tests and practice are essential for preparing for the UTME. Mock tests and practice help you simulate the real exam conditions and experience, as well as evaluate your readiness and performance. You should take mock tests and practice exams regularly throughout your preparation period.
Some of the benefits of mock tests and practice are:
- They familiarize you with the exam format, style, and difficulty level.
- They test your knowledge and skills in each subject under time pressure.
- They expose you to a variety of questions and topics that may appear in the exam.
- They provide you with instant feedback, solutions, explanations, and scores.
- They help you identify your strengths and weaknesses in each subject.
- They help you improve your speed, accuracy, and confidence.
Some of the reputable websites and resources for JAMB mock tests and practice exams are:
- [JAMB Mock Exam]: A free online mock exam that is conducted by JAMB before the main UTME. It is optional but highly recommended for candidates who want to experience the CBT environment and get a feel of the exam.
- [Pass.ng]: A paid online platform that provides JAMB-specific mock tests and practice exams on various subjects. It also offers performance analysis, solutions, explanations, tips, and tricks for the UTME.
- [JAMB CBT Practice App]: A free mobile app that allows you to practice JAMB questions offline on your phone or tablet. It also provides instant feedback,
performance analysis, and progress tracking.
Section 8: Exam Day Tips
The exam day is the most important and crucial day of your UTME preparation. You should be well-prepared and confident to face the exam and perform your best. Here are some tips to help you on the exam day:
- Before the exam:
- Check your exam date, time, and centre on the JAMB website or your printout slip. Make sure you know the location and directions to your exam centre.
- Prepare all the items that you need to bring to the exam, such as your printout slip, NIN slip, valid ID card, writing materials, and face mask. Do not bring any prohibited items, such as phones, calculators, or books.
- Get enough sleep and rest the night before the exam. Avoid cramming or studying late at night.
- Eat a healthy and balanced breakfast on the exam day. Avoid eating too much or too little, or consuming caffeine or alcohol.
- Arrive at your exam centre at least an hour before the exam time. Follow the COVID-19 safety protocols and guidelines at the centre.
- During the exam:
- Listen carefully to the instructions given by the invigilators or supervisors. Ask for clarification if you have any doubts or questions.
- Log in to your computer using your registration number and password. Check your personal details and subject combination on the screen. Report any errors or discrepancies to the invigilators or supervisors.
- Start the exam by clicking on the “Start Exam” button. You will see a timer on the top right corner of the screen that shows how much time you have left.
- Manage your time wisely during the exam. Do not spend too much time on any question or subject. You can skip or mark any question that you are unsure of and come back to it later.
- Read each question carefully and understand what it is asking for. Choose the best answer from the four options given. Click on the option that you want to select and then click on the “Next” button to move to the next question.
- Review your answers before submitting them. You can use the “Previous” button to go back to any question that you want to change or check. You can also use the “Review” button to see a summary of all your answers and questions.
- Submit your answers by clicking on the “Submit” button. You will see a confirmation message on the screen that shows your score and result. You can also print out a copy of your result slip for reference.
- After the exam:
- Congratulate yourself for completing the exam. Do not worry or stress about your performance or result. You have done your best and you should be proud of yourself.
- Leave the exam centre calmly and orderly. Do not engage in any discussion or argument with other candidates or invigilators.
- Celebrate your achievement with your family and friends. Treat yourself to something nice or fun.
Section 9: Post-Exam Actions
After taking the UTME, you still have some actions to take to complete your admission process. Here are some of the post-exam actions that you need to do:
- Check and interpret your JAMB result: You can check your JAMB result online on the JAMB website using your registration number or email address. You can also send “RESULT” as an SMS to 55019 using the same phone number that you used for registration. Your result will show your scores in each subject and your total score out of 400. Your result will also show your admission status, which can be one of these:
- Admitted: This means that you have been offered admission into your desired university and course of study based on your UTME score and other criteria.
- Not Admitted: This means that you have not been offered admission into any university or course of study based on your UTME score and other criteria.
- Admission in Progress: This means that your admission process is still ongoing and you need to wait for further updates from JAMB or your desired university.
- Accept or reject your admission offer: If you have been offered admission into a university and course of study, you need to accept or reject it within a specified period of time. You can do this online on the JAMB website using your JAMB profile. If you accept your admission offer, you will be required to pay an acceptance fee and print out an admission letter from JAMB. If you reject your admission offer, you will forfeit it and lose your chance of getting admitted into that university or course of study.
- Apply for change of institution or course: If you have not been offered admission into your desired university or course of study, or if you are not satisfied with your admission offer, you can apply for a change of institution or course. You can do this online on the JAMB website using your JAMB profile. You will need to pay a fee of N2,500 for each change that you make. You can only make a maximum of two changes for each UTME registration. You should also check the admission requirements and cut-off marks for the new institution or course that you want to apply for.
- Participate in the post-UTME screening: Some universities conduct a post-UTME screening for candidates who have applied for admission into their institutions. The post-UTME screening is a test or interview that assesses your suitability and compatibility for the institution and course of study that you have chosen. You need to register and pay a fee for the post-UTME screening on the website of the university that you have applied for. You also need to prepare and study for the post-UTME screening, as it may affect your admission chances.
Conclusion:
The UTME is a very important exam that determines your future academic and career prospects. Therefore, you should prepare well and follow some effective tips and strategies to ace the exam. In this blog post, I have explained in detail the various aspects of the UTME, such as its format, syllabus, scoring, and registration. I have also provided you with some useful resources and tools to help you create a personalized study plan, practice mock tests, and manage your time and stress. By following these tips and strategies, you will be able to approach the UTME with confidence and success.
I hope you have found this blog post helpful and informative. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. I wish you all the best in your UTME preparation and admission process. Remember to start your preparation early and stay dedicated. You can do it!
We at MySchoolFriend want you to have a successful exam. We wish you the best of luck.