JAMB Terms Glossary: Everything You Need to Know
Entering the Nigerian university admission system can feel like learning a new language.
You hear acronyms like “CBT,” “DE,” and “CAPS” thrown around in cyber cafes and WhatsApp groups. If you don’t know what they mean, you might miss a crucial step or misunderstand an instruction.
This glossary is designed to demystify the confusion. Whether you are a parent, a first-time candidate, or a student trying again, this dictionary covers the essential terms you need to navigate the 2026 admission process with confidence.
Essential JAMB and UTME Terms (Alphabetical Order)
Aggregate Score
The final score used by tertiary institutions to determine admission. It is a mathematical combination of your utme score and your post utme result (and sometimes your O’Level grades). This is the score that is compared against the departmental cut-off mark.
How to Calculate Your Aggregate Score for Admission (Post-UTME)
CBT (Computer Based Test)
This refers to the format of the examination. Unlike the old Paper-Based Test (PBT) where you used a pencil to shade answers, the UTME is now 100% digital. You will sit in front of a computer monitor and use a mouse (or sometimes a keyboard) to select your answers.
Cut-off Mark
The minimum score required to be considered for admission. There are two types:
- General Cut-off: Set by JAMB (e.g., 140 for universities), which serves as a national baseline.
- Departmental Cut-off: Set by the specific university for a specific course (e.g., 250 for Medicine at UNILAG).
What is the Maximum JAMB UTME Score? Understand Your Score
E-pin
Electronic Personal Identification Number. This is a unique 10-digit code that you purchase from a bank or vendor. It serves as proof of payment and allows the accredited center to access the registration portal for your data capture. You cannot register without a jamb epin.
Complete Guide to JAMB UTME Registration: E-pin, Profile, and Form Filling
JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board)
The governing body responsible for conducting entrance examinations for tertiary-level institutions in Nigeria. They are the regulators who set the rules, conduct the exams, and issue admission letters.
JAMB vs. UTME: Understand the Difference and Relationship
JAMB Profile
This is your personal account on the JAMB portal. It is created using your NIN and phone number. Throughout your admission journey—from registration to checking results and accepting admission—you will log in to this profile to perform all activities.
Complete Guide to JAMB UTME Registration: E-pin, Profile, and Form Filling
Mock Exam
A pre-exam simulation organized by JAMB a few weeks before the main UTME. It is optional and helps candidates familiarize themselves with the CBT environment and test their readiness. The mock jamb result does not affect the main score.
Guide to the JAMB Mock Exam: How it Works and Why Take It
Original Result Slip
The official result document that contains your passport photograph and biometric details. Unlike the notification slip you print for free, the original jamb result costs a fee to print and is required for Post-UTME screening and final clearance.
Guide to Printing Your Original JAMB UTME Result (PDF)
Post-UTME
An abbreviation for “Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.” It is a screening exercise conducted by individual universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education after the JAMB exam. It is the second stage of the admission process.
How to Calculate Your Aggregate Score for Admission (Post-UTME)
Registration Slip
The document given to you at the CBT center immediately after you complete your registration. It contains your registration number for jamb, your choice of institutions, and your exam town. It is proof that you have successfully applied.
Complete Guide to JAMB UTME Registration: E-pin, Profile, and Form Filling
UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination)
The actual examination that you sit for. It consists of four subjects, including the Use of English. Your performance in this exam generates your utme score, which is the primary criteria for admission.
JAMB vs. UTME: Understand the Difference and Relationship
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
“What is the difference between JAMB and Post-UTME?” JAMB (UTME) is the national exam that qualifies you to apply to schools. Post-UTME is the specific screening conducted by the school you applied to. You must pass JAMB to take the Post-UTME.
“Where can I find more information about these terms?” The most reliable source is the official JAMB brochure (syllabus) or the JAMB e-Facility portal. Always cross-check definitions with official guidelines to avoid misinformation.
Conclusion
Understanding these terms is like having a map. When you know the difference between an original jamb result and a notification slip, or how your aggregate score differs from your UTME score, you are less likely to make costly mistakes. Bookmark this glossary and refer to it whenever you encounter a term that confuses you during your 2026 admission journey.