JAMB 2025 UTME Issues: Latest Update as Exam Board Issues New Directive on Mass Failure

JAMB 2025 UTME Issues: Latest Updates as Exam Board Gives New Directive Regarding Mass Failure

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has initiated a comprehensive review of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) following widespread concerns over a significant drop in candidate performance. Recent data indicates that over 75% of the nearly 2 million candidates scored below 200 out of a possible 400 marks, sparking debates about the examination’s difficulty and the effectiveness of preparatory measures.

Key Statistics and Concerns

• Total Candidates: Approximately 1,955,069 candidates sat for the 2025 UTME.
• Scores Below 200: Over 1.5 million candidates scored below 200, representing more than 75% of the total examinees.
• High Achievers: Only 4,756 candidates scored above 320, highlighting the steep decline in top-tier performances.

These figures have raised alarms among stakeholders, prompting calls for an in-depth analysis of the factors contributing to the mass failure.

JAMB’s Response and New Directives

In light of the unprecedented failure rates, JAMB has announced several measures aimed at addressing the situation:

1. Expedited Review Process: JAMB has commenced a fast-tracked review of the 2025 UTME process to identify any anomalies or systemic issues that may have affected candidate performance.
2. Investigation into Complaints: The board is actively investigating the surge in complaints regarding discrepancies in the released scores, ensuring that any valid concerns are addressed promptly.
3. Policy Reassessment: JAMB is re-evaluating its examination policies and procedures to enhance fairness and accuracy in future assessments.

See : How to Check 2025 JAMB UTME Results: Step-by-Step Guide (SMS & Online Methods)

Government’s Perspective

The Federal Government, through the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has attributed the mass failure to the effectiveness of anti-examination malpractice measures. Dr. Alausa emphasized that the decline in scores reflects a more authentic assessment of candidates’ abilities, free from the distortions of cheating and other malpractices.

Implications for Candidates

The current situation has significant implications for candidates seeking admission into tertiary institutions:

• Admission Prospects: With the majority of candidates scoring below the typical cut-off marks, competition for available slots in universities and other institutions is expected to intensify.
• Alternative Pathways: Candidates are encouraged to consider alternative educational pathways, such as polytechnics and colleges of education, which may have lower cut-off requirements.
• Remedial Programs: Engaging in remedial programs or re-sitting the UTME in subsequent years may be necessary for candidates aiming to improve their scores.

Recommendations for Future Candidates

To enhance performance in future examinations, candidates are advised to:

• Early Preparation: Begin studying well in advance of the examination date to cover all necessary topics comprehensively.
• Utilize Official Resources: Make use of JAMB’s official study materials and practice tests to familiarize oneself with the examination format and question types.
• Seek Guidance: Engage with educators and mentors for support and clarification on challenging subjects.
• Stay Informed: Regularly check JAMB’s official website and accredited news outlets for updates on examination policies and procedures.

As JAMB continues its review and implements new directives, stakeholders remain hopeful that these measures will lead to improved outcomes in future assessments.