JAMB CBT Centre Requirements 2027 | How to Become an Accredited JAMB CBT Centre

Are you planning to establish a JAMB-accredited CBT centre in Nigeria?

Do you want to know the latest requirements for obtaining JAMB accreditation?

If yes, you are in the right place.

Every year, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) accredits qualified Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres across Nigeria for UTME registration, Direct Entry registration, mock examinations, and the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

However, not every computer centre qualifies for accreditation.

JAMB has strict technical, security, staffing, networking, and facility requirements that every CBT centre must satisfy before approval.

This guide explains the major requirements and important updates for institutions, schools, ICT companies, and organizations interested in operating a JAMB CBT centre.

Quick Answer

To become a JAMB-accredited CBT centre, an applicant must provide adequate computer systems, reliable internet connectivity, biometric registration facilities, CCTV surveillance, uninterrupted power supply, qualified technical personnel, and a secure examination environment that meets JAMB’s accreditation standards. The centre must also pass JAMB’s physical inspection before approval.

What Is a JAMB CBT Centre?

A JAMB CBT centre is a computer-based testing facility approved by JAMB to conduct:

• UTME registration
• Direct Entry registration
• Mock examinations
• Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME)
• Biometric verification
• Candidate data correction
• Other official JAMB services

Only centres accredited by JAMB are permitted to provide these services.

Why Does JAMB Have Strict CBT Centre Requirements?

JAMB introduced these standards to:

• Prevent examination malpractice.
• Ensure fairness during examinations.
• Improve candidate security.
• Eliminate technical failures.
• Protect candidates’ personal information.
• Provide a uniform examination experience across Nigeria.

These standards help maintain the credibility of the UTME.

General JAMB CBT Centre Requirements

According to JAMB’s published requirements, an accredited CBT centre should have:

1. Computer Systems

A standard CBT centre should have:

• At least 250 functional desktop computers or laptops.
• A minimum of 10% backup systems (about 25 additional computers).

All systems should be fully functional before accreditation.

2. Individual Candidate Cubicles

Each candidate should have an individual workstation.

The cubicles should provide enough privacy while allowing easy supervision during examinations.

JAMB specifies minimum dimensions for these cubicles.

3. Computer Specifications

Each computer should have:

• Flat-screen monitor.
• Supported Windows operating system.
• Updated antivirus software.
• Stable performance.
• Compatible hardware for JAMB software.

Older computers that cannot run the examination software efficiently may not qualify.

4. Server Requirements

Every CBT centre should operate a dedicated server capable of handling all connected systems simultaneously.

The server should support smooth examination delivery without interruption.

Network Requirements

Reliable networking is essential.

JAMB requires:

• Cable Local Area Network (LAN).
• Stable network switches.
• Proper network management.
• Reliable internet connectivity.

Wireless LAN is generally not acceptable for examination delivery because cable connections provide better stability.

Internet Requirements

Every accredited CBT centre should have reliable internet connectivity.

JAMB recommends strong network coverage.

Centres are expected to operate in areas with dependable mobile network services.

Power Supply Requirements

Power failure during an examination can affect hundreds of candidates.

For this reason, every CBT centre should have:

• Reliable electricity.
• Adequate generating sets.
• UPS or inverter backup.
• Backup power capable of supporting examination sessions.

Continuous power supply is one of the most important accreditation requirements.

CCTV Requirements

Every accredited CBT centre must install CCTV surveillance.

The CCTV system should cover important areas such as:

• Examination halls.
• Entrance.
• Exit.
• Biometric verification area.
• Waiting area.
• Server room.
• External surroundings.

The system should also support recording and storage of examination activities.

Security Requirements

The examination centre should:

• Be adequately fenced.
• Have controlled access.
• Prevent unauthorized entry.
• Protect candidates and equipment.
• Maintain proper examination security.

Shared facilities such as shopping malls or open commercial centres are generally not suitable.

Technical Personnel Requirements

Every CBT centre should employ qualified personnel.

These include:

• ICT technicians.
• Network engineers.
• System administrators.
• Technical support staff.

These personnel are responsible for maintaining the systems before and during examinations.

Biometric Registration Requirements

JAMB uses biometric verification throughout the registration and examination process.

Centres should provide:

• Approved fingerprint scanners.
• USB cameras.
• Live photograph capture.
• Dual-screen registration systems where candidates can verify their details before submission.

Examination Hall Requirements

The examination hall should provide:

• Good ventilation.
• Functional air conditioners.
• Adequate lighting.
• Comfortable seating.
• Clear visibility.
• Wall clocks visible to candidates.

A conducive environment improves the examination experience.

Software Requirements

The computers should have:

• Supported Windows operating system.
• Updated antivirus software.
• JAMB-approved CBT software.
• JAMB secure browser where required.

Only software approved by JAMB should be installed on examination systems.

Accreditation Process

The accreditation process usually involves:

1. Application by the institution.
2. Submission of required information.
3. Physical inspection.
4. Technical assessment.
5. Network testing.
6. Security verification.
7. Final approval by JAMB.

Centres that fail inspection are usually required to correct identified deficiencies before another assessment.

Common Reasons Centres Fail Accreditation

Some centres fail accreditation because of:

• Inadequate computers.
• Poor internet connectivity.
• Weak power backup.
• Poor CCTV coverage.
• Faulty networking.
• Inadequate security.
• Insufficient technical staff.

Meeting all requirements increases the chances of approval.

Recent Improvements by JAMB

Over the years, JAMB has strengthened its accreditation process by introducing:

• Better biometric verification.
• Improved CCTV monitoring.
• Enhanced candidate verification.
• Stronger network security.
• Better registration procedures.
• Stricter inspection processes.
• Increased monitoring of accredited centres.

These improvements are aimed at improving examination integrity and reducing malpractice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone open a JAMB CBT centre?

Yes.

Schools, higher institutions, ICT firms, and other qualified organizations can apply, provided they meet JAMB’s accreditation requirements.

Does JAMB inspect every CBT centre?

Yes.

Physical inspection forms part of the accreditation process before approval is granted.

Is CCTV compulsory?

Yes.

CCTV surveillance remains one of the mandatory requirements for accreditation.

Is a backup generator compulsory?

Yes.

Reliable backup power is required to ensure examinations continue during power outages.

Can accreditation be withdrawn?

Yes.

JAMB may suspend or withdraw accreditation from any centre that fails to comply with its operational standards or examination guidelines.

Final Thoughts

Operating a JAMB CBT centre is a significant responsibility.

Beyond providing computers, applicants must meet strict technical, security, networking, staffing, and facility standards established by JAMB.

Institutions planning to establish a CBT centre should carefully review the latest accreditation requirements, invest in quality infrastructure, and ensure their facilities are inspection-ready before submitting an application.

Because JAMB periodically reviews and updates its accreditation standards, prospective operators should always consult the official JAMB accreditation guidelines for the most current requirements before making major investments.

Related JAMB Guides

You may also like: