By DAYO ADESULU
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially released the JAMB 2026 Mock UTME results, offering candidates an early insight into their performance ahead of the main examination scheduled for April.
The mock examination, conducted nationwide on Saturday, March 28, 2026, served as a preparatory test for candidates sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). According to JAMB, candidates who participated can now check their results via SMS using the phone numbers linked to their registration.
How to Check JAMB 2026 Mock UTME Results
JAMB directed candidates to check their JAMB 2026 Mock UTME results by sending “MOCKRESULT” via SMS to either 55019 or 66019. The board stressed that candidates must use the same SIM card used during their registration process to access their results.
This SMS-based system, JAMB noted, ensures secure and seamless access to individual scores while maintaining the integrity of the examination process.
Over 224,000 Registered, But Only 152,000 Sat for Exam
Providing a breakdown of participation, JAMB disclosed that a total of 224,597 candidates registered for the mock exercise. However, only 152,586 candidates successfully sat for the examination, indicating a significant drop-off between registration and actual participation.
The mock exam was conducted across 989 accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres nationwide, reflecting JAMB’s continued reliance on digital infrastructure to streamline Nigeria’s tertiary admission process.
JAMB Delists 20 CBT Centres Over Technical Failures
In a major development, JAMB announced that over 20 CBT centres have been delisted following technical issues encountered during the mock examination.
The board explained that these centres failed to meet the required operational standards, leading to disruptions during the test. As a result, they have been barred from participating in future JAMB examinations unless they address the identified deficiencies.
This move underscores JAMB’s commitment to improving examination quality and ensuring that only fully compliant centres are allowed to host candidates.
Warning Against Fraudulent Score Upgrade Claims
JAMB issued a strong warning to candidates regarding fraudulent activities, particularly from individuals or groups operating on platforms like WhatsApp, who claim they can manipulate or inflate UTME scores.
The board described such claims as false, deceptive, and criminal, urging candidates to steer clear of anyone offering such services.
“Any candidate found engaging in such activities will have their registration cancelled,” JAMB warned. It added that if such malpractice is discovered after the examination, affected results may be withheld or completely withdrawn.
This warning comes amid rising concerns over digital fraud targeting candidates desperate to secure high scores for university admission.
Main UTME Scheduled for April 16
JAMB confirmed that the main UTME will commence on Thursday, April 16, 2026, giving candidates a limited window to assess their mock performance and make necessary adjustments.
Education stakeholders believe the mock examination remains a critical tool in helping candidates familiarize themselves with the CBT format, manage time effectively, and identify areas needing improvement.
Why the Mock UTME Matters
Although optional, the mock UTME plays a crucial role in reducing exam anxiety and boosting candidates’ confidence. It also allows JAMB to test its systems, identify weak points, and implement corrective measures before the main examination.
The delisting of underperforming CBT centres, for instance, reflects lessons learned from the mock exercise and signals a proactive approach by JAMB to prevent similar disruptions during the main UTME.
Final Advisory to Candidates
As candidates review their JAMB 2026 Mock UTME results, experts advise them to treat the scores as a diagnostic tool rather than a final verdict. Performance in the mock exam does not determine success in the main UTME but provides a valuable opportunity for improvement.
Candidates are encouraged to focus on revision, adhere strictly to examination guidelines, and avoid any form of malpractice that could jeopardize their academic future.
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