The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exam is a major step in the life of any Nigerian student hoping to get into a university, polytechnic, or college of education. As JAMB 2025 draws closer, many candidates are nervous—but with the right preparation, you can enter the exam hall with confidence.
Here are five important things you should do before your exam day.
1. Practise Past Questions and Use CBT Software
Let’s be honest—many students wait until the last minute before they start studying properly. Don’t be that student. One of the smartest things you can do now is to start practising JAMB past questions. These questions help you understand how JAMB frames its questions and what topics they like to repeat.
But don’t stop at just practising—you must also check the solutions. Learn from your mistakes and understand why certain answers are correct. Also, get comfortable with CBT (Computer-Based Test) practice software. If you can, use a laptop or desktop computer, because that’s what you’ll meet at the exam centre. Being familiar with the layout of the CBT screen will reduce your anxiety and save you time during the real exam.
2. Locate Your Exam Centre Ahead of Time
It’s one thing to know the name of your centre. It’s another thing to know exactly where it is. Don’t wait until the morning of your exam to find it. If the centre is in a place you’re not familiar with, visit it before your exam day. It will help you know how far it is, the best route to take, and how long it might take you to get there.
Many students miss their exams or arrive late because they didn’t check their centres early. Don’t let that happen to you. No matter how ready you are academically, if you miss the exam, all the effort is wasted.
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3. Arrive Early on the Exam Day
On your exam day, try to be at your centre at least one hour before your scheduled time. Even if your exam is by 9 a.m., be there by 8 a.m.—or even earlier. Some students get there early just to sit and pray or calm their minds. You may not realise it now, but those quiet moments before an exam can help you relax and focus.
Arriving early also gives you time to settle in, find your hall, and avoid the stress that comes with rushing or traffic. When you’re not under pressure, you think better, and that helps you perform better.
4. Don’t Write on an Empty Stomach
Many students skip meals on exam days because of anxiety or rushing. That’s not a good idea. Even if it’s just bread and tea, try to eat something. Your brain needs energy to function well. You don’t want to be in the middle of the exam and start feeling dizzy or tired.
The only reason you should write on an empty stomach is if you’re fasting. If that’s the case, prepare your body the day before by eating something solid and staying hydrated. A hungry brain is a weak brain—don’t let hunger reduce your performance.
5. Print Multiple Copies of Your Registration Slip
Don’t make the mistake of having just one copy of your registration slip. Print at least two copies. One will be submitted or shown to the officials. The second one can be used to jot down quick formulas or rough work before you start the real exam.
Also, don’t be afraid to go with your pencil and pen. Even though JAMB is a computer-based test, you might need to do some quick calculations or sketches before clicking on your final answer. Always go prepared—you never know what might help.
JAMB is not just about how smart you are. It’s also about how prepared you are. Don’t joke with the little things—they are the ones that often make a big difference. Practise well, know your centre, eat something, arrive early, and go with your documents. That way, you’ll walk into the exam hall with peace of mind and a sharp mind.
Good luck!
