JAMB Approved CBT Centres in Nigeria (2025 Full List)

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has made it compulsory for all UTME and Direct Entry candidates in Nigeria to register and take their exams at officially approved Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres. This rule was introduced to ensure fairness, reduce exam malpractice, and improve the credibility of the admission process.

As of 2025, thousands of candidates across Nigeria depend on these centres for smooth registration, biometric verification, mock tests, and the main UTME exam. However, many students still ask: What exactly is a JAMB-approved CBT centre? Why is it compulsory to register there? How can you identify a genuine one?

This comprehensive guide will cover:

• What JAMB-approved CBT centres are.

• Why they are important.

• Step-by-step guide on how they work.

• Full breakdown of their services.

• State-by-state coverage of approved centres.

• Common problems candidates face at CBT centres.

• Solutions and expert tips to avoid mistakes.

• FAQs to clear every confusion.

By the end, you will fully understand everything about JAMB CBT centres in Nigeria and how to use them effectively for your 2025 UTME.

What Is a JAMB Approved CBT Centre?

A JAMB-approved CBT centre is an official registration and examination venue accredited by JAMB where candidates must complete their UTME or Direct Entry process. These centres are specially set up to provide:

• Registration services (UTME/DE form filling).

• Biometric capturing (fingerprint and photo).

• Mock UTME (for practice).

• The main UTME examination (computer-based).

• Post-exam services like printing results and admission letters.

Every approved CBT centre is equipped with secure computers, reliable internet, backup power, and CCTV surveillance to monitor activities during exams.

Why JAMB Approved CBT Centres Are Important

JAMB centres are not just random cybercafés. They are carefully selected and monitored to ensure a standard environment. Their importance includes:

1. Prevention of Exam Malpractice – By using biometric verification and CCTV, JAMB reduces impersonation and cheating.

2. Uniform Exam Conditions – All candidates write in the same digital format across Nigeria.

3. Data Accuracy – Centres ensure correct entry of personal details to avoid future admission issues.

4. Security – The official centres protect candidates’ information and prevent fraud.

5. Fairness – All students sit for the exam under the same rules, ensuring fairness nationwide.

How JAMB CBT Centres Work

JAMB centres operate in two main stages:

1. Registration Stage

When candidates visit the centre:

• They present their NIN (National Identification Number).

• The staff captures biometric data (fingerprint, photo).

• Personal details, O’level results, and course choices are entered.

• Candidates receive a registration slip with exam details.

2. Examination Stage

On exam day:

• Candidates verify their identity with fingerprint scanners.

• Each student sits at a computer terminal.

• The system randomly loads their UTME questions.

• Answers are submitted digitally and stored in JAMB’s central server.

This system removes the use of paper and ensures fast and accurate results.

JAMB Approved CBT Centres vs Cybercafés

Many students wonder: Can I register for JAMB in a cybercafé? The answer is No.

Here’s why:

Only CBT centres are legal for UTME processes. Using a café can cause errors, invalid registration, or disqualification.

State-by-State Coverage of JAMB CBT Centres (2025 Guide)

JAMB releases a new list of approved CBT centres every year. These centres are spread across Nigeria’s 36 states and the FCT to give equal access to candidates.

While the full list is very long, here’s how they are generally distributed:

South-West

• Lagos: Over 70 centres including universities, polytechnics, and private ICT hubs.

• Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Ekiti: Average of 30–50 centres each.

South-East

• Enugu, Anambra, Imo, Abia, Ebonyi: 20–40 centres each, mostly in state capitals.

South-South

• Rivers and Delta have the highest concentration due to population.

• Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Bayelsa, Edo: Multiple approved centres.

North-Central

• Abuja (FCT): Dozens of CBT centres due to federal institutions.

• Kwara, Kogi, Benue, Niger, Nasarawa, Plateau: Several spread across LGAs.

North-West

• Kano, Kaduna, Katsina: Large numbers of centres to handle population size.

• Jigawa, Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara: Moderate distribution.

North-East

• Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, Bauchi, Taraba, Gombe: Centres mainly in urban areas.

Each candidate must choose the centre closest to them during registration.

Services Provided at JAMB CBT Centres

Apart from exam registration, CBT centres offer several official services:

1. Correction of Data – Change of course, institution, name, or date of birth.

2. Printing of Exam Slip – To know exam date, time, and venue.

3. Post-UTME Registration Assistance – Some centres help candidates register for school screening.

4. Mock UTME – Practice before the real exam.

5. Result Printing – Candidates can print original JAMB result slips.

6. Admission Letter Printing – Needed for NYSC and school clearance.

Common Problems at JAMB CBT Centres and Solutions

1. Long Queues

• Cause: High number of candidates.

• Solution: Register early before the deadline.

2. Biometric Capture Issues

• Cause: Fingerprint not clear.

• Solution: Wash and dry hands properly before registration.

3. Wrong Data Entry

• Cause: Mistakes by staff.

• Solution: Double-check details before final submission.

4. Fake Centres

• Cause: Scammers posing as CBT centres.

• Solution: Verify the centre on JAMB’s official portal before registering.

Tips for Choosing the Best JAMB CBT Centre

• Select a centre close to your home to avoid transport stress.

• Choose centres with a track record of efficiency.

• Avoid last-minute registration when centres are crowded.

• Confirm the centre is listed on JAMB’s approved portal.

Summary Table – Key Facts About JAMB CBT Centres

FAQs About JAMB Approved CBT Centres in Nigeria

1. Can I register for JAMB in a cybercafé?

No, only JAMB-approved CBT centres are allowed for registration.

2. How do I know if a centre is approved by JAMB?

Check the official JAMB portal for the list of accredited centres.

3. Can I choose any CBT centre for my exam?

Yes, but you must select during registration.

4. Do CBT centres charge extra fees?

No, they should only charge JAMB’s official fee.

5. Can I change my exam centre after registration?

No, once selected, the centre is final.

6. Are all CBT centres also exam centres?

Yes, but some may only handle registration.

7. What happens if I register at an unapproved centre?

Your registration will be invalid and rejected by JAMB.

8. Do CBT centres conduct post-UTME?

No, but some assist candidates with registration.

9. Can I print my admission letter at a CBT centre?

Yes, most centres offer that service.

10. Is biometric verification compulsory?

Yes, without it you cannot register or sit for UTME.

Conclusion

JAMB-approved CBT centres are the only safe and legal way to register and write UTME in Nigeria. They ensure fairness, security, and credibility in the admission process. As a candidate in 2025, you must use these centres for registration, biometric capture, mock UTME, and the main exam.

To avoid mistakes, confirm the centre’s approval, register early, and always check your details carefully before submission. With the right preparation, your JAMB experience will be smooth and successful.