Every year, thousands of students register for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Nigeria. However, many candidates make costly mistakes during registration, which often affect their chances of admission into their desired institutions.

As JAMB registration for 2025 approaches, it’s important to learn from the mistakes made by candidates in 2024 and take steps to avoid them. This article highlights the common errors during JAMB registration in 2024 and provides practical tips to prevent them in 2025.

1. Inaccurate Personal Information

What Happened?

Many candidates made errors in their names, dates of birth, gender, state of origin, and local government area during registration. Some even used names that were different from what appeared on their National Identification Number (NIN) records.

Why Is This a Problem?

• It causes mismatches between your JAMB profile and other official records.
• Universities and other institutions may reject your application due to incorrect information.

How to Avoid This Mistake in 2025:

• Cross-check your NIN details before starting your registration.
• Ensure your personal information matches across all your documents.
• Carefully review your registration details before final submission.

2. Wrong Subject Combination

What Happened?

Many students selected incorrect subject combinations for their desired courses, even though JAMB provides a subject combination guide for each course.

Why Is This a Problem?

• Incorrect subject combinations automatically disqualify you from admission into your preferred course.
• It can force you to change your course or institution later, causing unnecessary stress.

How to Avoid This Mistake in 2025:

• Refer to the official JAMB brochure for the correct subject combination for your course.
• Consult your teachers, counselors, or trusted educational advisors if you’re unsure.

For a quick reference, check our guide on JAMB Subject Combinations for various courses.

3. Using Unauthorized Cyber Cafés for Registration

What Happened?

Some candidates used unaccredited cyber cafés for JAMB registration instead of JAMB-accredited CBT centers. These unauthorized centers often:

• Use fake or expired registration software.
• Enter incorrect details.
• Overcharge candidates.

Why Is This a Problem?

• Your registration may be invalid.
• Personal information might be compromised.
• You may face difficulties correcting errors later.

How to Avoid This Mistake in 2025:

• Register only at JAMB-accredited CBT centers.
• Cross-check the list of approved centers on the official JAMB website.

4. Multiple Registrations

What Happened?

Some candidates attempted multiple registrations, thinking it would improve their chances. In other cases, candidates forgot their profile code and created new accounts.

Why Is This a Problem?

• JAMB views multiple registrations as examination malpractice.
• Such registrations are automatically flagged and disqualified.

How to Avoid This Mistake in 2025:

• Avoid registering more than once.
• Retrieve your lost profile code instead of creating a new one.
• Use your registered phone number for communication with JAMB.

5. Payment Issues

What Happened?

Some candidates experienced failed transactions, incorrect payments, or were scammed by unapproved payment channels.

Why Is This a Problem?

• Payment errors can prevent you from completing your registration.
• If you’re scammed, recovering your money is often impossible.

How to Avoid This Mistake in 2025:

• Make payments through official JAMB payment channels only.
• Avoid third-party agents who offer “quick fixes.”
• Double-check transaction details before confirming payments.

6. Failure to Upload O’Level Results

What Happened?

Many candidates either forgot to upload their O’Level results or uploaded incorrect or incomplete details.

Why Is This a Problem?

• Without valid O’Level results, your admission cannot be processed.
• Some candidates missed admission opportunities due to this error.

How to Avoid This Mistake in 2025:

• Upload your O’Level results as soon as possible after registration.
• Verify your upload status on the JAMB portal before the admission deadline.

7. Incorrect Email Address

What Happened?

Some candidates used invalid email addresses or shared one email address among multiple profiles during registration.

Why Is This a Problem?

• You may miss out on important JAMB notifications.
• Accessing your JAMB profile becomes difficult.

How to Avoid This Mistake in 2025:

• Use a valid, personal email address that you can easily access.
• Avoid sharing email addresses with other candidates.

8. Ignoring Mock Exam Registration

What Happened?

Some candidates skipped the JAMB Mock Exam registration, assuming it wasn’t important.

Why Is This a Problem?

• Mock exams help you understand the JAMB CBT format.
• Candidates who missed the mock exam often struggled with technical issues during the main exam.

How to Avoid This Mistake in 2025:

• Register for the JAMB Mock Exam if you’re a first-time candidate.
• Use it as an opportunity to familiarize yourself with the CBT process.

9. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Register

What Happened?

Many candidates delayed their registration until the final days of the deadline, leading to rushed entries and errors.

Why Is This a Problem?

• Registration centers become overcrowded.
• Errors are more likely to happen when rushed.

How to Avoid This Mistake in 2025:

• Register as soon as the JAMB registration portal opens.
• Don’t wait until the deadline approaches.

10. Lack of Proper Guidance

What Happened?

Many students registered without consulting teachers, parents, or counselors, leading to poor decisions during registration.

How to Avoid This Mistake in 2025:

• Consult experienced counselors or teachers during registration.
• Ensure you fully understand the process before proceeding.

Conclusion

JAMB registration is a critical step in your academic journey, and avoiding common mistakes can save you from unnecessary stress and disappointment. Whether it’s entering accurate information, choosing the right subjects, or using accredited CBT centers, every detail matters.

Take your time, prepare thoroughly, and follow official guidelines. With proper planning, you can have a smooth registration process and focus on preparing for the JAMB UTME 2025.

Share this article with friends and classmates to help them avoid these common mistakes during JAMB registration!