Every year, thousands of candidates sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), hoping to secure admission into higher institutions. However, beyond academic readiness, adherence to examination guidelines plays a crucial role in determining your success. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has consistently emphasized strict compliance with its rules—especially regarding prohibited items at exam centres.

To help you avoid unnecessary mistakes, here is a clear breakdown of what not to take with you on your exam day.

Complete List of Prohibited Items

Candidates are strictly forbidden from taking the following items into the examination hall:

  1. Wristwatches
  2. Pens/Biros
  3. Mobile phones or similar electronic devices
  4. Spy reading glasses (subject to strict scrutiny)
  5. Calculators or similar electronic devices
  6. USB drives, CDs, hard disks, or storage devices
  7. Books and any reading or writing materials
  8. Cameras
  9. Recorders
  10. Microphones
  11. Earpieces
  12. Ink/Pen readers
  13. Smart lenses
  14. Smart rings/jewellery
  15. Smart buttons
  16. Bluetooth devices
  17. Key holders
  18. ATM cards
  19. Erasers

Possession of any of these items may lead to immediate disqualification or denial of entry into the exam hall.

Important Note for Calculation Subjects

If you are writing subjects that require calculations, there is no need to bring a calculator. JAMB provides a built-in calculator within the exam system for your use.

What You Are Allowed to Bring

To avoid confusion, candidates are only required to come with:

  1. Your Examination Slip (not the registration slip)
  2. A Pencil (especially for calculation-based subjects)
Key Clarifications:
  1. The examination slip can be black-and-white or colored
  2. It can be either original or a photocopy
  3. Ensure it clearly displays your name and exam details
  4. You may bring two copies for convenience
Special Advisory for Candidates
  1. Biometric Verification:
  2. Candidates, especially females, are advised to avoid heavy nail polish or decorative nails, as these may interfere with thumbprint verification.
  3. Stay Updated:
  4. The reprinting of examination slips has not yet commenced. Candidates are advised to wait for the official announcement from Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.

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