The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, increased the registration fee for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, UTME, on Monday.
The examination body stated that prospective candidates can now begin creating their profiles on the JAMB website
JAMB, the body responsible for conducting the UTME, revealed on Monday that the registration fee for the examination has been increased. The approved sum for both the UTME and the mock examination is now set at seven thousand, seven hundred naira (N7,700). Furthermore, candidates who opt not to participate in the mock trial will pay six thousand, two hundred naira (N6200) for the UTME registration.
It’s essential to understand the factors that led to this decision. According to the statement released by JAMB, the increase is intended to address certain challenges faced by the examination body. These challenges may range from logistical issues to the need for improved infrastructure to ensure a seamless examination process. By adjusting the registration fee, JAMB aims to enhance the overall quality and efficiency of the UTME.
The immediate concern that arises from this fee hike is its impact on prospective candidates. Education is a fundamental right, and any increase in the cost of examinations may potentially limit access for economically disadvantaged students. The move raises questions about the accessibility of higher education for all, regardless of socioeconomic background. It becomes crucial to assess how this change aligns with the broader goals of promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities in education.
Unsurprisingly, the announcement has sparked reactions from various stakeholders in the education sector. Students, parents, and educators alike are expressing their concerns about the financial implications of the increased registration fee. Some argue that this decision may disproportionately affect students from low-income families, potentially hindering their chances of pursuing higher education.
Additionally, educational institutions, which rely on the UTME results for admissions, may also be impacted. The fee hike could influence the number of candidates applying for the examination, which, in turn, might affect the diversity and competitiveness of the applicant pool.
It approved the sum of seven thousand, seven hundred naira (N7,700) as a fee for the UTME and mock examination. It also pegged the fee for the examination without the mock trial at six thousand, two hundred naira (N6200).
It was reported that the cost of the JAMB form without a mock exam was N5,700 in 2023, and the application form inclusive of a mock exam was priced at N6,700.
The board also said the application documents for foreign candidates will now be available at $30.
The examination body stated that prospective candidates can now begin creating their profiles on the JAMB website, with the official sale of application documents set to begin on Monday, January 15th, 2024.
It also stated that prospective candidates have six weeks, until Monday, February 26, to complete their registration.
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