With the 2026 JAMB UTME kicking off on Thursday, April 16th, knowing how to navigate the CBT interface quickly and avoiding common exam-day mistakes can add 20 to 30 extra marks to your score.
1. Know the Exam Format (180 Questions in 2 Hours)
You have exactly 2 hours (120 minutes) to answer 180 questions:
- Use of English: 60 questions
- Three Other Subjects: 40 questions each (120 questions total)
2. Master the 9 JAMB CBT Keyboard Shortcuts
Using the keyboard is much faster than clicking every option with a mouse:
- A, B, C, D: Select option A, B, C, or D for the current question
- N: Move to the Next question
- P: Go back to the Previous question
- S: Submit your exam (only press this when you have finished all four subjects!)
- R: Cancel submission and Return to your exam
- Y: Confirm submission (Yes)
When to use the mouse: Use your mouse only when switching from one subject tab to another at the top of the screen, or when clicking the on-screen calculator in the top-right corner.
3. Ignore "JAMB Runs" & Neighbours' Screens
- Questions Are Randomized: Every candidate's questions and option letters are shuffled differently. Your Question 1 is not your neighbour's Question 1.
- Say No to "Runs" Scammers: Strict CCTV monitoring and biometric logs mean any attempt at malpractice leads to withheld or cancelled results.
4. Exam Day Checklist
- Arrive 30-60 Minutes Early: Locate your CBT centre ahead of time and arrive early for biometric verification.
- Do Not Skip Biometric Thumbprinting: Biometric verification is the only official attendance register. If you are not verified, insist on being verified before leaving.
- Start With Your Strongest Subject: Build momentum early, skip tough calculation questions on your first pass, and return to them before submitting.
Practice the exact CBT keyboard shortcuts and timer on the Mentra JAMB CBT app, available on both Android and iOS.
Published by Mentra Academic Research
Every study guide, syllabus analysis, and timing breakdown is cross-checked against official examination criteria (JAMB UTME, POST-UTME, and WAEC) by subject matter specialists.
