JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) is an examination board in Nigeria that is responsible for conducting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for candidates seeking admission into tertiary institutions in the country. The UTME is an important examination as it is a major determinant of whether or not a candidate will be admitted into a tertiary institution.
In this article, we will be discussing the question of whether a score of 240 is a good JAMB score. We will look at what JAMB is, the purpose of the UTME, how the UTME is scored, and what constitutes a good JAMB score. We will also consider the factors that may affect a candidate’s JAMB score and what a candidate can do to improve their score.
What is JAMB?
As stated earlier, JAMB is an examination board in Nigeria that is responsible for conducting the UTME. The UTME is a computer-based test that is designed to assess the readiness of candidates to pursue tertiary education in Nigeria. The examination covers four subjects, which are English Language, Mathematics, and two other subjects chosen by the candidate.
The purpose of the UTME is to provide a level playing field for all candidates seeking admission into tertiary institutions in Nigeria. The examination is designed to assess the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of the subjects they studied in secondary school. The results of the UTME are used by tertiary institutions in Nigeria to determine which candidates are eligible for admission into their institutions.
How is the UTME Scored?
The UTME is scored out of a total of 400 marks. Each subject is scored out of a total of 100 marks, with a total of 50 questions per subject. Each question carries two marks, and there is no negative marking. The overall score is calculated by adding up the scores of the four subjects.
The grading system used by JAMB is known as the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) grading system. The grades are as follows:
180-199 – Merit 200-249 – Upper Credit 250-299 – Distinction 300-400 – Outstanding
What Constitutes a Good JAMB Score?
A good JAMB score is subjective and can vary depending on the individual’s goals and aspirations. Generally, a score of 200 and above is considered a good JAMB score. This is because a score of 200 and above will make a candidate eligible to apply for admission into most tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
However, some tertiary institutions in Nigeria have higher cut-off marks, and a score of 200 may not be sufficient for admission into such institutions. For example, some universities may require a score of 250 and above for admission into certain courses.
Therefore, it is important for candidates to research the cut-off marks of the institutions they intend to apply to and strive to attain a score that is equal to or higher than the cut-off mark.
Factors That May Affect a Candidate’s JAMB Score
Several factors may affect a candidate’s JAMB score. Some of these factors include:
- Level of Preparation: The level of preparation can significantly affect a candidate’s JAMB score. Candidates who prepare adequately for the UTME tend to perform better than those who do not prepare adequately.
- Test Anxiety: Test anxiety is a common problem among candidates, and it can affect their performance in the UTME. Candidates who experience test anxiety may find it difficult to concentrate during the examination, which can result in poor performance.
- Familiarity with the Computer-Based Test Format: The UTME is a computer-based test, and candidates who are not familiar with the computer-based test format may find it challenging to navigate the test interface, which can affect their performance.
Choice of Subjects: The choice
of subjects can also affect a candidate’s JAMB score. Candidates who choose subjects that they are not proficient in may find it challenging to answer the questions correctly, which can result in a low score.
Timing: The UTME is a timed examination, and candidates who do not manage their time effectively may not be able to answer all the questions within the allotted time, which can affect their score.
How to Improve JAMB Score
Candidates who wish to improve their JAMB score can take the following steps:
Start Preparation Early: Candidates should start preparing for the UTME as early as possible. This will give them enough time to cover all the topics in the syllabus and practice answering past questions.
Take Mock Tests: Mock tests can help candidates to familiarize themselves with the computer-based test format and improve their speed and accuracy.
Manage Test Anxiety: Candidates who experience test anxiety can take steps to manage their anxiety, such as practicing relaxation techniques, getting enough sleep before the exam, and arriving at the exam center early to avoid unnecessary stress.
Choose Subjects Wisely: Candidates should choose subjects that they are proficient in and have a good understanding of. This will increase their chances of answering the questions correctly and improving their score.
Practice Time Management: Candidates should practice managing their time effectively during the exam. They should aim to answer all the questions within the allotted time by dividing their time equally among the four subjects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a JAMB score of 240 is a good score, but whether it is good enough for admission into a particular institution depends on the institution’s cut-off mark. Candidates who wish to improve their JAMB score can take steps such as starting preparation early, taking mock tests, managing test anxiety, choosing subjects wisely, and practicing time management. With adequate preparation and the right mindset, candidates can achieve a good JAMB score and increase their chances of being admitted into their desired tertiary institution in Nigeria.
