Understanding the Duration of a JAMB Exam (2025)

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exam is one of the most crucial exams in Nigeria, as it is a gateway to higher education. If you’re preparing for it, you’re probably filled with a lot of questions. One of the most pressing questions on most candidates’ minds is, “How long is the JAMB exam?” While you may have heard many things about the exam, understanding the specific details regarding its duration can help you prepare more effectively and manage your time wisely.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about the duration of the JAMB exam, how to optimize your time during the exam, and some useful strategies that will keep you ahead of the curve.

What is JAMB?

Before we get into the duration, let’s take a moment to talk about JAMB itself. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board is a Nigerian entrance examination board for tertiary-level institutions. Candidates seeking admission into Nigeria’s higher institutions—universities, polytechnics, or colleges—are required to pass the JAMB examination. The exam tests students on a variety of subjects depending on the courses they are applying for.

Why is the Duration of the JAMB Exam Important?

Imagine this: you’re seated at your computer, nervous and ready to begin your exam. You glance at the clock, and suddenly, panic sets in because you’re unsure of how long you have to finish. Knowing how much time you have for each section of the exam can help you stay calm and focused.

How Long is the JAMB Exam?

The JAMB Computer-Based Test (CBT) typically lasts 2 hours (120 minutes). During this period, you are expected to answer 180 questions that cover four subjects, usually English and three others related to your field of study.

Breaking Down the Time for Each Section

One of the smartest strategies to approach the JAMB exam is to know how to break down the 120 minutes efficiently. Here’s how you can allocate your time:

English Language (60 Questions) – This section is usually the most comprehensive, as it tests comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary. It’s best to allocate around 40-45 minutes to this section.
Other Subjects (40 Questions Each) – Depending on the subjects you’ve chosen, you’ll face 40 questions per subject. For each of these sections, aim to allocate about 20 minutes to ensure you cover all questions without rushing.
Revision Time – After completing all the questions, make sure to leave about 10 minutes for revisiting difficult questions or ensuring you didn’t leave any questions unanswered.

Why the JAMB Exam Time is Fixed

You might wonder, why exactly 2 hours? Why not longer or shorter? The duration has been carefully calculated by JAMB to ensure that candidates have enough time to read and answer each question while also maintaining the intensity that ensures only prepared students perform well.

JAMB also believes that two hours is an ideal timeframe that maintains focus. Any longer, and students may become fatigued; any shorter, and they might feel rushed.

Common Challenges Students Face With the Duration

Despite knowing the exam lasts 2 hours, many candidates still struggle with time management. Some of the challenges include:

Overthinking Questions: Many students spend too much time on one difficult question, leaving little time for others.
Lack of Time Awareness: Without a watch or proper time management, it’s easy to lose track of time and rush through the last few questions.
Technical Glitches: Although JAMB has done an excellent job in improving the technical experience of the CBT exams, sometimes candidates face delays due to computer issues.

Time Management Tips for JAMB Candidates

Managing time in the JAMB exam is just as important as knowing the right answers. Below are some tips to help you make the most of your 2 hours:

Practice Timed Mock Exams: Familiarize yourself with the JAMB interface and time constraints by practicing with mock exams. The more you practice, the faster you’ll be at answering questions.
Don’t Spend Too Much Time on One Question: If you’re unsure of an answer, skip it and move on. You can always come back to it later if time permits.
Keep an Eye on the Clock: Constantly check how much time you have left. This will help you adjust your pace.
Use the Elimination Technique: For multiple-choice questions, eliminate the obviously wrong options to improve your chances of choosing the right answer faster.
Stay Calm: It’s easy to panic when you feel time is slipping away, but staying calm will help you think more clearly and efficiently.

What Happens If You Run Out of Time?

You might be wondering, “What happens if I don’t finish within the 2-hour window?” Once the timer hits zero, the computer automatically submits whatever answers you’ve provided. There’s no penalty for leaving questions unanswered, but it’s always best to attempt every question for a better chance at scoring higher.

Can the Duration of the Exam Be Extended?

Typically, the JAMB exam duration is non-negotiable. However, in rare cases where there are significant technical issues (such as power outages or computer failures), JAMB officials may extend the exam time. But these occurrences are rare, and you should always prepare for the exam based on the standard 2-hour duration.

How to Make the Most of the 2 Hours

Making the most out of your 120 minutes is key to success. Besides time management, ensuring you’re in the right mental and physical state will help a lot. Sleep well the night before, eat a balanced meal, and stay hydrated. This will keep your brain sharp and focused during the exam.

The Role of Preparation in Beating the Clock

Let’s not sugarcoat it; if you’re not prepared for the exam, no amount of time management will save you. The best way to ace JAMB and finish within the given time is through adequate preparation. Know your subjects inside out, practice past questions, and familiarize yourself with the CBT format.

How Past Questions Can Help

Here’s a little secret: JAMB has been known to repeat past questions. Practicing with past questions not only helps you understand the format of the questions but also trains you to answer them faster. The more past questions you practice, the quicker you’ll become at identifying the correct answers, giving you extra time during the exam.

Conclusion

Understanding the duration of the JAMB exam is critical for success. The exam lasts for 2 hours, and during that time, you’ll need to answer 180 questions across four subjects. By mastering time management, practicing with past questions, and staying calm, you can maximize your performance and score high. Remember, JAMB isn’t just about knowing the answers—it’s about knowing how to approach the exam strategically. So, with a smart study plan and a clear understanding of the time constraints, you’re already on your way to success.

FAQs

Can I bring a wristwatch into the JAMB exam hall?

No, wristwatches are generally not allowed in the JAMB exam hall, as they can be considered suspicious. The computer system provides a timer that shows how much time you have left.

Is the JAMB exam duration the same for all candidates?

Yes, every candidate is given the same 2-hour duration, regardless of the subject combination or location.

How can I improve my speed during the JAMB exam?

The best way to improve your speed is by practicing timed mock exams and past questions. This will help you get used to answering questions quickly without sacrificing accuracy.

What should I do if I face technical issues during the exam?

Immediately raise your hand and notify the exam invigilator if you encounter any technical problems. They will address the issue and may provide you with extra time if necessary.

Does JAMB penalize for wrong answers?

No, there’s no negative marking in JAMB. This means you should attempt all questions, even if you’re unsure of the answers.

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