The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is a Nigerian entrance examination board for tertiary-level institutions. JAMB was established in 1978 to unify entrance examinations for universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education in Nigeria. The board is responsible for conducting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), which is a standardized exam used for admission into tertiary-level institutions in Nigeria. This exam is taken by over 2 million candidates every year, and it is often the most critical factor in determining whether a student is admitted to their desired institution. One question that students often ask is whether their JAMB score can change after the exam. This article aims to explore the possibility of JAMB scores changing after the exam.
What is the JAMB Score?
The JAMB score is the total number of points a candidate scores in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The exam comprises four sections: English Language, Mathematics, and two other subjects chosen by the candidate. Each section consists of 40 questions, and each question is worth one point. Therefore, the maximum score a candidate can obtain is 400. The JAMB score is used as a basis for admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education in Nigeria.
Can JAMB Scores Change After the Exam?
The short answer is no. Once a candidate takes the UTME, their score is final and cannot be changed. The JAMB board has a strict policy against changing scores after the exam. This policy is in place to ensure that the examination process is fair and transparent for all candidates. The JAMB board uses a computer-based testing system that automatically scores the exam once it is completed. The results are then released to the candidates within a few days. Therefore, the possibility of changing a JAMB score after the exam is not possible.
Why Can’t JAMB Scores Change After the Exam?
Several reasons can explain why JAMB scores cannot change after the exam. Some of these reasons include:
Security: JAMB takes the issue of exam security seriously. The board has put measures in place to prevent exam malpractice and ensure the integrity of the exam process. One of the ways the board ensures this is by using a computer-based testing system that automatically scores the exam once it is completed. This system ensures that the exam is free from human error and manipulation.
Transparency: The JAMB board believes in transparency and fairness. The board ensures that the exam process is open and transparent to all candidates. This includes releasing the results of the exam within a few days of completion. The board also allows candidates to check their results online using their JAMB registration number.
Standardization: The JAMB exam is a standardized exam that is used for admission into tertiary-level institutions in Nigeria. The board ensures that the exam is fair and standardized for all candidates. This means that the questions asked are the same for all candidates, and the grading system is consistent. Changing a JAMB score after the exam would compromise the standardization of the exam.
Timeframe: The JAMB exam is held once a year, and the timeframe for registration, examination, and result release is usually within a few months. Therefore, there is limited time for changes to be made to a candidate’s score after the exam.
What If There is a Discrepancy in the JAMB Score?
In some cases, candidates may notice a discrepancy in their JAMB score. For instance, a candidate may score significantly lower than expected or notice that some of their answers were not recorded correctly. In such cases, the candidate should contact the JAMB board immediately.
The JAMB board has a system in place for addressing such issues. The board allows candidates to request a review of their scores within 48 hours
of the release of the results. This request can be made through the JAMB website or by visiting any JAMB office. However, it is important to note that the review process is not a score change request. Rather, it is a process for ensuring that the score recorded is the same as the score obtained by the candidate during the exam.
If the review reveals that there was a discrepancy, the JAMB board will rectify the issue and update the candidate’s score accordingly. However, if the review shows that the score recorded is the same as the score obtained by the candidate during the exam, no changes will be made to the score.
It is essential to note that the review process is time-sensitive, and candidates must act promptly if they notice a discrepancy in their JAMB score. Failure to do so within the stipulated time may result in the candidate accepting the recorded score, and no further changes can be made.
How Can Candidates Ensure a Good JAMB Score?
Although JAMB scores cannot be changed after the exam, candidates can take steps to ensure that they score well in the exam. Here are some tips for achieving a good JAMB score:
- Start Early: Preparing for the JAMB exam takes time and effort. Candidates should start preparing early to ensure that they cover all the necessary topics and practice enough past questions.
- Understand the Exam Format: Candidates should familiarize themselves with the exam format to know what to expect during the exam. This includes knowing the number of questions, time allocated for each section, and the type of questions asked.
- Practice Past Questions: Practicing past questions is one of the most effective ways of preparing for the JAMB exam. Candidates should practice as many past questions as possible to familiarize themselves with the exam pattern.
- Use Study Materials: Candidates should use study materials such as textbooks, revision guides, and online resources to supplement their preparation for the exam.
- Manage Time Effectively: Time management is crucial during the JAMB exam. Candidates should allocate time appropriately for each section and ensure that they complete the exam within the allocated time.
- Stay Focused and Confident: Staying focused and confident during the exam is essential. Candidates should avoid distractions and negative thoughts that may affect their performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, JAMB scores cannot be changed after the exam. The JAMB board has a strict policy against changing scores to ensure that the examination process is fair and transparent for all candidates. However, candidates who notice a discrepancy in their scores can request a review of their scores within 48 hours of the release of the results. It is essential to note that the review process is time-sensitive, and candidates must act promptly.
Candidates can take steps to ensure that they score well in the JAMB exam by starting early, understanding the exam format, practicing past questions, using study materials, managing time effectively, and staying focused and confident during the exam. These tips can help candidates achieve a good JAMB score and increase their chances of gaining admission into their desired tertiary-level institution.
