The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially announced Saturday, June 13, 2026, as the date for the conduct of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) mop-up exercise.
The mop-up examination is specifically designed for candidates who were unable to participate in the main UTME despite completing their verification process successfully. According to the Board, the exercise aims to provide another opportunity for affected candidates who encountered technical and operational challenges during the initial examination period.
The announcement has brought relief and renewed hope to thousands of candidates across Nigeria who experienced difficulties during the main UTME exercise.
JAMB Explains Purpose of the Mop-Up Examination
JAMB stated that the mop-up examination is intended to address genuine cases involving candidates who were unable to sit for the examination due to circumstances beyond their control.
Several candidates reportedly encountered issues ranging from biometric verification failures to technical malfunctions at various Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres nationwide.
The Board emphasized its commitment to ensuring fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity for all candidates affected by the disruptions.
Categories of Candidates Eligible for the Mop-Up Exercise
According to JAMB, only candidates with officially recognized issues will be permitted to participate in the mop-up examination.
Eligible candidates include:
- Candidates affected by technical failures at CBT centres
- Candidates who experienced biometric verification challenges
- Candidates who were verified successfully but could not sit for the examination due to system-related issues
- Other verified cases officially approved by JAMB
The Board reiterated that the exercise is strictly limited to affected candidates and not open to the general public.
Printing of Examination Slips Begins June 6
JAMB has directed all eligible candidates to begin printing their Examination Notification Slips from Friday, June 6, 2026.
The examination slip will contain important information including:
- Examination date
- Assigned CBT centre and venue
- Examination time
- Candidate registration details
Candidates are strongly advised to print their slips early and familiarize themselves with their examination centres ahead of the examination date.
Mop-Up Exercise Marks Final Stage of 2026 UTME
The examination body further disclosed that the mop-up exercise will serve as the final phase of the 2026 UTME exercise nationwide.
This indicates that no additional supplementary examination may be conducted after the mop-up exercise. Candidates are therefore encouraged to take the opportunity seriously and ensure full compliance with all examination requirements.
The development also signals the gradual conclusion of the 2026 UTME process as preparations for the admission phase continue across tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
Important Guidelines for Candidates
To avoid unnecessary issues during the examination, candidates are advised to:
- Print their examination slips on time
- Visit their assigned CBT centres beforehand if possible
- Arrive early at the examination venue
- Come along with all necessary registration documents
- Strictly adhere to JAMB examination rules and guidelines
Candidates are equally encouraged to rely only on official information released by JAMB and avoid misleading updates circulating on social media platforms.
A Fresh Opportunity for Affected Candidates
For candidates whose examination process was disrupted during the main UTME, the mop-up exercise represents another valuable opportunity to pursue their academic and admission goals without being disadvantaged by technical or administrative challenges.
Education stakeholders have commended JAMB for providing a fair solution for affected candidates, describing the decision as a demonstration of the Board’s dedication to accountability and equal access to educational opportunities.
As the examination date approaches, candidates are encouraged to remain calm, prepare adequately, and approach the exercise with confidence.
