The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is the body responsible for conducting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and the Direct Entry (DE) exams for admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. Every year, millions of candidates register for these exams, hoping to secure a place in their preferred institutions and courses of study.

However, before the main UTME and DE exams, JAMB also conducts a mock examination for candidates who want to have a feel of the exam environment and test their readiness. The mock exam is optional and free of charge, but it has some benefits and requirements that candidates should be aware of.

WHEN IS THE JAMB MOCK EXAM 2024/2025?

The JAMB Mock Exam for the 2024/2025 session is scheduled for Thursday, March 7th, 2024. The mock exam will take place in selected accredited CBT centres across the country. The exam will start by 9:00 am, and candidates are expected to arrive at their centres at least 30 minutes before the exam time.

6 IMPORTANT THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT JAMB MOCK EXAMINATION 2024/2025

In this article, we will discuss six important things you need to know about the JAMB mock examination for the 2024/2025 academic session.

1. IT’S OPTIONAL, BUT HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Taking the mock exam is entirely your choice. You are not obliged to participate, and it does not affect your scores or admission chances in the main exams. However, participating can significantly improve your chances of success in the actual UTME.

The mock exam is designed to help candidates familiarize themselves with the exam format, questions, and computer-based testing (CBT) system. It also gives candidates an opportunity to assess their strengths and weaknesses, and identify areas where they need to improve.

The mock exam is highly recommended for candidates who want to boost their confidence and performance in the main exams. It is especially useful for candidates who have not taken a CBT exam before, or who are not comfortable with using computers.

2. IT’S NOT A PREVIEW OF THE MAIN EXAM

Some candidates may think that the mock exam is a preview of the main UTME, and that the questions will be the same or similar. This is not true. JAMB does not use the same questions in the mock exam as the main UTME. The purpose of the mock exam is to familiarize candidates with the testing format and environment, not to predict the actual exam content.

The mock exam questions are drawn from the same syllabus and subject combinations as the main UTME, but they are not necessarily the same questions that will appear in the main exam. Therefore, candidates should not rely on the mock exam as a substitute for studying the syllabus and past questions.

3. IT HELPS YOU UNDERSTAND THE TESTING MODE

One of the main benefits of the mock exam is that it replicates the CBT environment of the UTME, allowing candidates to practice using the computer interface, navigating through questions, and managing their time effectively.

The CBT system is a computerized platform that delivers the exam questions and records the candidates’ responses. Candidates are required to use a keyboard, mouse, and monitor to answer the questions. The system also provides tools such as a calculator, a timer, and a review option.

The mock exam helps candidates to get used to the CBT system and its features, and to overcome any technical difficulties or challenges they may encounter. It also helps candidates to familiarize themselves with the exam instructions, marking scheme, and rules and regulations.

4. IT IDENTIFIES AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

Another benefit of the mock exam is that it provides immediate feedback and results to the candidates. Candidates can see their scores, strengths, and weaknesses, and work on improving them before the main exam.

The mock exam results can highlight areas where candidates need to focus their studies. By analyzing their performance, candidates can adjust their preparation strategy and target specific topics for further study. They can also identify and correct any mistakes, gaps, or misconceptions they may have.

The mock exam also provides corrections and explanations for the questions, which can help candidates to understand the concepts and logic behind the answers. This can enhance their knowledge and comprehension, and improve their problem-solving skills.

5. IT REDUCES EXAM ANXIETY

Many candidates experience anxiety and fear before and during the exam. This can affect their concentration, memory, and confidence, and negatively impact their test-taking performance.

Taking the mock exam in a simulated testing environment can help candidates to feel more comfortable and confident on the actual exam day. Familiarity with the format and procedures can significantly reduce anxiety and improve their test-taking performance.

The mock exam also helps candidates to overcome any psychological or emotional barriers they may have, such as self-doubt, nervousness, or panic. By experiencing the exam atmosphere and pressure before the main exam, candidates can develop coping strategies and mental resilience.

6. IT’S A PRACTICE RUN FOR TIME MANAGEMENT

One of the most challenging aspects of the UTME is time management. The UTME has strict time limits for each subject section, and candidates are expected to answer 180 questions in two hours. This means that candidates have an average of 40 seconds to answer each question.

The mock exam allows candidates to practice managing their time effectively during the test. This is crucial, as time management can make or break their scores. By experiencing the pressure of completing the mock exam within the allotted time, candidates can develop effective time management skills for the main exam.

The mock exam also helps candidates to plan their pacing and strategy, such as how much time to spend on each question, when to skip or guess, and when to review or change their answers.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE JAMB MOCK EXAM 2024/2025?

The JAMB mock exam is a good opportunity for candidates to prepare for the main exams. To make the most of it, candidates should do the following:

• Study the JAMB syllabus and past questions for their chosen subjects. The mock exam questions are likely to be similar to the main exam questions, so candidates should familiarize themselves with the topics and concepts that are frequently tested.
• Practice with online CBT platforms and apps that simulate the JAMB exam environment and timing. This will help candidates to get used to the computer interface, keyboard, mouse, and other tools that they will use in the exam.
• Review their performance and feedback after the mock exam. Candidates should note their scores, strengths, and weaknesses, and work on improving them before the main exam. They should also pay attention to the corrections and explanations provided by the CBT system or the JAMB officials.

CONCLUSION

The JAMB mock exam is a valuable tool to enhance your preparation for the UTME. While not mandatory, it is highly recommended for students seeking to improve their chances of success in the main examination.

Candidates who register and participate in the mock exam will have an edge over those who do not, as they will be more familiar, confident, and prepared for the main exam. Therefore, candidates who are serious about their admission should not miss this opportunity to improve their chances of success.