JAMB: Undergraduates Can Register for UTME Without Terminating Admission – Fact Check

JAMB: Undergraduates Can Register for UTME Without Terminating Admission – Fact Check

February 6, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom World

BUSTED: The Viral Claim About JAMB and Existing University Students

Social media was ablaze with reports that Nigeria’s Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) had implemented a new rule preventing current university undergraduates from registering for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The claim, widely shared on platforms like Facebook, even suggested students would need to terminate their existing admissions to be eligible. But is this true? A closer look reveals the claim to be demonstrably false.

The Origin of the Misinformation

The initial wave of misinformation surfaced in early 2026, quickly gaining traction within student communities online. Posts like one on CampusYarn’s Facebook page alleged a complete ban, linking it to efforts to combat exam malpractice. Similar posts circulated in various Facebook groups dedicated to Nigerian students, amplifying the panic and confusion. The core message was consistent: undergraduates were locked out of future UTME applications.

JAMB Sets the Record Straight

Fortunately, JAMB swiftly addressed the rumors. In a statement posted on their official X (formerly Twitter) account, signed by Public Communication Advisor Fabian Benjamin, the board unequivocally refuted the claims. JAMB clarified that they do not prohibit currently enrolled students from registering for the UTME/DE (Direct Entry) exam.

Disclosure, Not Withdrawal: The Key Difference

The crucial point, as emphasized by JAMB, is the requirement for disclosure. Candidates are now mandated to disclose their existing matriculation status during registration. This isn’t a ban; it’s a transparency measure. According to JAMB, this disclosure is for record-keeping, regulatory compliance, and, most importantly, to prevent the illegal practice of multiple admissions – a violation of Nigerian law. Failing to disclose an existing admission, they warned, could jeopardize both current and future enrollment.

Why the Misinformation Spread and What It Reveals

The rapid spread of this false claim highlights a growing trend: the vulnerability of students to misinformation circulating on social media. Often, these claims are presented without verification, preying on anxieties about the competitive nature of university admissions in Nigeria. The fact that the misinformation was often framed as an anti-cheating measure also lent it a veneer of credibility.

Did you know? Nigeria has over 200 universities and polytechnics, making the UTME a critical gateway for higher education. This high-stakes environment makes students particularly susceptible to rumors about admission policies.

The Broader Implications: Combating Misinformation in Education

This incident isn’t isolated. Across Africa, and globally, educational institutions are increasingly battling the spread of false information. The rise of social media, while offering benefits for communication and access to information, also creates fertile ground for rumors and disinformation campaigns.

Several factors contribute to this:

  • Lack of Official Channels: Students often rely on unofficial sources for information, rather than directly consulting official university or examination board websites.
  • Algorithmic Amplification: Social media algorithms can prioritize engagement over accuracy, leading to the rapid spread of sensationalized or misleading content.
  • Trust Deficit: A general lack of trust in official institutions can make students more receptive to alternative narratives.

Proactive Strategies for Students and Institutions

To combat this, both students and institutions need to adopt proactive strategies:

  • Verify Information: Always cross-reference information from multiple official sources before accepting it as true.
  • Follow Official Channels: Follow official university and examination board accounts on social media and regularly check their websites for updates.
  • Critical Thinking Skills: Develop critical thinking skills to evaluate the credibility of sources and identify potential biases.
  • Institutional Transparency: Educational institutions should prioritize transparency and proactively communicate policy changes through official channels.

The Future of Exam Integrity and Information Control

Looking ahead, One can expect to see increased use of technology to verify information and combat exam malpractice. Biometric identification, AI-powered proctoring systems, and blockchain-based credentialing are all potential solutions. However, these technologies must be implemented responsibly, with careful consideration for privacy and equity.

the need for robust media literacy programs will become even more critical. Equipping students with the skills to navigate the digital landscape and discern fact from fiction is essential for ensuring a fair and informed educational system.

FAQ

  • Can I register for UTME if I’m already in university? Yes, you can. JAMB does not prohibit it.
  • Do I need to terminate my current admission to register for UTME? No, you do not.
  • What does JAMB require of current university students registering for UTME? You must disclose your existing matriculation status during registration.
  • Why does JAMB require this disclosure? To maintain accurate records, comply with regulations, and prevent multiple admissions.

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