The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released a comprehensive list of examination malpractices and corresponding penalties ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), warning candidates to adhere strictly to rules or risk severe sanctions.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Board said the move is part of efforts to strengthen the credibility of the examination process and ensure fairness for all candidates across the country.
JAMB outlined several forms of malpractice, including impersonation, bringing unauthorized materials into the examination hall, collusion among candidates, use of electronic devices such as mobile phones or smartwatches, and attempting to hack or manipulate the Computer-Based Test (CBT) system.
The Board also flagged misconduct by accredited CBT centre operators, including tampering with candidates’ data, aiding cheating, and failure to comply with operational guidelines.
According to JAMB, penalties for these offences range from outright cancellation of results to prosecution under relevant laws. Candidates found guilty of impersonation or identity fraud risk being barred from sitting future examinations, while those caught with prohibited items may have their results withheld or cancelled.
The Board further noted that CBT centres involved in malpractice could face delisting, suspension, or legal action, depending on the severity of the offence.
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JAMB Registrar, Ishaq Oloyede, reiterated the agency’s zero-tolerance stance on examination fraud, urging candidates to avoid shortcuts and prepare adequately for the test.
“We have put in place advanced monitoring systems and collaborations with security agencies to detect and prosecute offenders. Candidates should understand that any attempt to cheat will be met with strict consequences,” he said.
The examination body also advised parents and guardians to discourage their wards from engaging in malpractice, noting that ignorance of the rules would not be accepted as an excuse.
JAMB assured that all necessary measures have been implemented to ensure a smooth, transparent, and credible UTME in 2026, adding that genuine candidates have nothing to fear.