2 Days To Go: Candidates Rush To Meet UTME Registration Deadline

With just two days remaining until the official deadline for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration, students across the country are scrambling to complete their registration.

The deadline, set for March 8, 2025, is rapidly approaching, and registration centers have become increasingly crowded as candidates rush to meet the cut-off.

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has emphasised that there will be no extension, leaving prospective candidates with little time to spare.

As a result, long queues have formed at various registration centers, and many students are anxious about missing out on the opportunity to sit for the exam that could shape their academic futures.

The registration period for the 2025 UTME began on February 3 and is set to conclude on March 8, 2025.

JAMB has communicated the deadline clearly in all advertisements and official calendars for the examination, stressing that there will be no extensions.

“We urge all individuals who wish to participate to register promptly and avoid waiting until the last minute.

“Extending the registration period would disrupt not only the Board’s plans but also those of our partners. We strongly encourage candidates to complete their registration as soon as possible and adhere to the established timeline for the 2025 UTME,” JAMB stated.

As of March 4, 2025, JAMB reported that more than 1.5 million candidates had successfully registered for the 2025 UTME.

However, some candidates are still scrambling to complete their registration before the deadline.

LEADERSHIP visited some Computer-Based Test (CBT) registration centers, where candidates were seen lining up as early as 6 a.m. to ensure they were attended to in time.

Candidates have faced several challenges during the registration process. Some issues include difficulties obtaining the National Identification Number (NIN) short code, problems with e-PIN registration payments due to network issues, and complications related to the ongoing currency crisis.

Additionally, there has been a shortage of available computers at some centers, causing delays for those attempting to register.

JAMB has also issued a warning about some CBT centers conducting registration activities at night, citing concerns over candidates’ safety and security. Centers found violating this directive face suspension to ensure compliance with registration protocols.

At Government Secondary School (GSS) Lugbe, a registration center in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), several candidates shared their frustrations.

One candidate, Eze, explained that he had delayed his registration due to financial constraints. “I would have registered earlier, but I couldn’t afford it. Now that I’ve secured the funds, the queues have gotten longer because everyone is trying to meet the deadline.

“I arrived here as early as 7 a.m., and I hope I will be able to complete my registration today. The staff at this center are doing their best to attend to us.”

With only two days remaining, candidates are advised to complete their registration as soon as possible.

Utilising accredited CBT centers and staying informed through official JAMB communications can help mitigate any last-minute challenges.