If you’ve ever found yourself wondering exactly how JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) marks each question, you’re definitely not alone. Every year, millions of Nigerian students take the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) with hopes of securing admission into higher institutions. While the exam itself can be nerve-wracking, the uncertainty about how it is graded often adds to the stress. It’s not just about the scores you see at the end—it’s about understanding how JAMB arrives at those scores.
Most students focus entirely on preparing for the test itself, but knowing how the marking system works can be a game-changer. Understanding JAMB’s marking scheme can help you improve your preparation strategy, giving you an edge when answering questions. It’s like knowing the rules of a game before playing—it can give you the upper hand.
In this article, we’ll explore how JAMB marks each question, what the grading system looks like, and the best strategies to maximize your score. Whether you’re a student preparing for the exam or simply curious about the marking process, this guide is for you.
How Does JAMB Mark Each Subject?
JAMB typically assesses four subjects in the UTME exam: English and three other subjects related to the course you intend to study. The total number of questions varies from subject to subject, but generally, you’ll have 40 questions in English and 50 questions in each of the other subjects.
Each subject is graded separately, and every question carries a certain number of points. In most cases, every correct answer is worth the same amount, although there can be minor variations depending on the subject. English, being the compulsory subject, usually has more weight in the overall grading scheme. Understanding how each subject is marked is crucial to ensuring you allocate your time wisely during the exam.
How Many Marks Does Each Question Carry?
The typical UTME exam consists of 180 questions, broken down across the four subjects. Each question generally carries 2.5 marks, though this can vary slightly depending on the subject. For example, if you correctly answer a question in a subject like Mathematics or Physics, you would typically earn 2.5 marks for that question.
However, General Paper (English) tends to have a slightly more complex marking scheme. Some sections in the English paper, such as comprehension or essay writing, may carry more weight than others. While multiple-choice questions in English may still follow the 2.5-mark rule, the essay or comprehension sections may contribute more to your overall score.
How Are Marks Calculated in JAMB?
Marks in JAMB are calculated based on the total number of questions answered correctly. Each correct answer earns you a fixed amount of points, which are added together to give you a final score. For instance, if there are 180 questions in total, and you get 150 correct, your score will be calculated as 150 multiplied by the points for each question (let’s assume 2.5 marks). That would give you a total of 375 marks out of 400.
JAMB then scales this score depending on the difficulty of the exam and how other candidates perform, ensuring fairness in the final results. The scaled score is what you see as your final JAMB result.
Is There Negative Marking in JAMB?
One of the most common concerns students have is whether JAMB uses negative marking. The short answer is no, JAMB does not use negative marking. In JAMB, you won’t lose points for wrong answers. However, it’s important to note that every wrong answer means missed points, which can ultimately affect your final score.
This is good news for students because it means you should attempt every question. Even if you aren’t sure about the correct answer, guessing won’t harm your score. In fact, it could improve your chances of scoring higher, especially in multiple-choice questions where you have a 1-in-4 or 1-in-5 chance of guessing correctly.
What Is the JAMB Cut-Off Mark?
The JAMB cut-off mark varies depending on the course and institution you are applying to. While JAMB itself doesn’t set a uniform cut-off mark for all students, it does have a minimum cut-off score that most universities use as a guideline. For instance, the minimum JAMB cut-off mark for admission into most Nigerian universities is usually around 160 to 180, though some courses like Medicine, Law, and Engineering may require higher scores, often between 200 and 250.
It’s essential to check the specific cut-off mark for your preferred course and institution before sitting for the exam. Scoring above the minimum cut-off mark gives you a better chance of securing admission, but keep in mind that some competitive programs may require even higher marks.
How Can You Improve Your JAMB Score?
If you want to maximize your JAMB score, you’ll need to focus on smart preparation. Here are a few tips:
- Study past questions: JAMB tends to repeat questions from previous years, so reviewing past papers can give you an edge.
- Understand the marking scheme: Knowing how much each question is worth can help you prioritize difficult questions and manage your time wisely.
- Practice under exam conditions: Simulate the actual test environment to get used to the pressure.
- Answer every question: Since there’s no negative marking, never leave a question unanswered, even if you have to guess.
- Focus on English: Since English carries more weight, prioritize it in your preparation.
Common Mistakes Students Make During JAMB
Even with the best preparation, students can make mistakes that cost them valuable marks. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:
- Leaving questions unanswered: Remember, there’s no negative marking, so guessing is always better than leaving a blank.
- Spending too much time on tough questions: Don’t get stuck on one difficult question. Move on and come back to it if you have time.
- Not reviewing answers: If time allows, always go back and review your answers before submitting.
Does JAMB Mark the Use of English Differently?
Yes, JAMB marks Use of English a bit differently from other subjects. The English paper has different sections—comprehension, lexis and structure, oral forms, and an essay writing section. The marking of the essay part differs because it’s not just multiple-choice but requires subjective assessment based on grammar, coherence, and relevance. Each part of the English exam may have different weightings.
Why Is It Important to Understand JAMB’s Marking System?
Understanding how JAMB marks each question can directly impact how you approach the exam. It helps you focus on areas that carry more marks and avoid wasting time on less critical sections. Being familiar with the marking system allows you to strategize better, making the most of your strengths while compensating for weaknesses.
What to Expect After the JAMB Exam
After you complete the JAMB exam, your result is typically released within a few days. The scores are broken down by subject, showing how well you performed in each area. It’s crucial to note that your total score will influence your chances of gaining admission, so aim for the highest possible marks in each subject.
Conclusion
Understanding how JAMB marks each question is an essential part of preparing for the UTME exam. By knowing how each subject is graded, how many marks each question carries, and how the overall scoring works, you can approach the exam with more confidence. Since there’s no negative marking, it’s always a good idea to attempt every question, even if you aren’t sure of the answer.
Now that you have a clearer understanding of the marking system, you’re in a better position to plan your preparation and improve your chances of scoring high. Remember, every mark counts, and a smart strategy can make all the difference.
FAQs
Is there negative marking in JAMB?
No, JAMB does not use negative marking. You don’t lose points for wrong answers, so it’s advisable to attempt every question.
How many marks is each JAMB question worth?
Typically, each question in JAMB is worth 2.5 marks, but this can vary slightly depending on the subject.
How is JAMB’s Use of English marked?
The Use of English is marked differently from other subjects due to its various sections. While multiple-choice questions carry the same weight as other subjects, the essay and comprehension sections may have a different marking scheme.
What is the JAMB cut-off mark?
The cut-off mark varies by institution and course. Most universities set it between 160 and 180, but more competitive courses may require scores of 200 or higher.
Can I guess answers in JAMB?
Yes, since there’s no negative marking, it’s always better to guess an answer than leave a question blank.
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