How to Answer JAMB Questions and JAMB Exam Format 2026/2027, what to expect on UTME exam day, duration, marking scheme and all you need to know.
In this article, I will show you the various JAMB formats, how to answer JAMB exam questions 2026 using a computer and the structure of the exam.
The Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is the entrance test conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for admission of suitably qualified candidates into Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria.
During the test, the Board uses the Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode, which involves the electronic deployment of questions and the retrieval of answers.
Table of Contents
JAMB Exam Format 2026/2027
Below is the JAMB-UTME exam format and structure:
- JAMB exam format and structure consist of Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQS) on the Use of English and three other subjects you registered for.
- JAMB Use of English is compulsory for all candidates and consists of 60 multiple-choice questions.
- The other three JAMB subjects you registered for each have 40 multiple-choice questions, all of which must be attempted.
- You’ll answer forty (40) multiple-choice questions for each subject. For example, JAMB Government has 40 questions, JAMB Chemistry has 40 Questions, JAMB Physics has 40 Questions, JAMB Mathematics has 40 Questions, and the same applies to subjects like Igbo, Hausa, Computer Studies, CRK, Economics, and Literature.
- Each JAMB question has four (4) options, lettered A – D.
- The total number of questions to answer in JAMB 2026 is one hundred and eighty (180).
- The duration of the 2026/2027 JAMB UTME is two (2) hours.
How to Answer JAMB Exam Questions 2026
Here are the most effective and practical ways to answer JAMB exam questions:
- Log in with your 2026 JAMB registration Number
- Carefully read the UTME instructions
- Start with your best subject
- Read one question twice before you pick an option
- Avoid spending too much time on any single question
- Check your time to ensure you’re not wasting it.
Furthermore, JAMB allows candidates to use the nine keys and up/down arrows on the keyboard without needing a mouse.
All you need to do is press either letter A, B, C or D to select an answer to a question.
JAMB Letter P, N, S, R or Y for navigation and Up and Down arrow keys are for scrolling up and down for passage reading, where applicable, as illustrated in the table below.
JAMB Shortcut Keys 2026
Below are the JAMB Shortcut Keys to Answer Questions Easily:
| Familiar With the Use Of a Mouse | Not Familiar With the Use Of a Mouse |
| You can use the mouse to select answers | You can press either A, B, C or D on the keyboard to select answers |
| Clicking on NEXT button on the screen brings up the next question | Pressing the Right Arrow key moves one to the next question |
| Clicking on PREVIOUS button on the screen brings back the previous question | Pressing the Left Arrow key returns one to the previous question |
| Use the scroll wheel for passage reading, where applicable | Use the Up and Down arrow keys for scrolling up and down for passage reading, where applicable. |
|
Clicking on any Question Number at the bottom of the screen brings up the question directly. |
For emphasis, the keyboard navigation keys are given below:
P for Previous Question N for Next Question R is to Return (if S is pressed in error) S to submit Examination Y to confirm submission of Examination |
| Clicking on the calculator shown on top right corner of the screen will open the calculator | Examination Officers should help to click on the top right corner as shown on the screen to open the calculator |
| Clicking on the NEXT or PREVIOUS button will automatically save the answer | Pressing N or P button on the keyboard will automatically save the answer |
| Clicking on END EXAM button ends the Examination | Pressing S button on the keyboard once or twice will not end the examination. Pressing Y after the press of S will end the examination. |
| Once submitted, you cannot go back. | Once submitted, you cannot go back. |
Additional Information:
- JAMB UTME examination will be conducted in multiple sessions per day.
- Candidates will be assigned to sessions.
- Sit the examination only in the centres assigned to you.
- Arrive at the examination centres at the scheduled time as indicated on your e-Registration Slips.
- You will not be allowed into the examination centre with any prohibited items, e.g., a telephone, a wristwatch, a pen/biro, or any other electronic devices.
Conclusion
If you understand the 2026/2027 JAMB exam format and how to answer UTME questions, it will help you tackle UTME questions quickly and efficiently.
Take your time to study and practise thoroughly before the main UTME or Mock examination day.
Check out my article on how to buy JAMB Form online, how to pass JAMB and Score High and the approved JAMB subject combinations for all courses.
I hope you found my article on the 2026 JAMB exam format and tips for answering JAMB questions helpful.