JAMB Prohibited Items for 2026 UTME and Hall Guidelines

To maintain the integrity and security of the 2026 UTME, JAMB has sustained a strict ban on electronic devices and unauthorized materials. These rules align with global best practices in examination management to ensure a level playing field for all 2.2 million candidates nationwide.

Candidates seeking a broader exam-day guide can check the 2026 JAMB UTME guide, which includes details on batch timings, keyboard shortcuts, and vital preparation tips.

Full List of Banned Electronic Gadgets

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has restated that the following electronic items are strictly prohibited from the examination hall:

• Mobile phones and SIM-related devices
• Calculators (or similar electronic devices)
• Wristwatches (including smart and analog watches)
• Recorders and microphones
• Spy reading glasses and smart lenses
• Cameras and Bluetooth devices
• Ear pieces and headphones
• USBs, CDs, hard disks, and other storage devices

Banned Stationery and Personal Materials

Candidates are also prohibited from bringing the following items into the UTME centres:

• Pens or biros (only HB pencils are permitted)
• Books or any reading/writing materials
• Ink or pen readers
• Key holders and ATM cards
• Erasers and smart rings
• Jewellery (including bangles, necklaces, and smart buttons)

Note: Dr. Fabian Benjamin, JAMB’s spokesperson, emphasized that candidates found with these items will be disqualified and may face legal prosecution.

Official Biometric Verification Rules for 2026 UTME

Biometric verification remains the sole mode of admission into the examination hall. JAMB has clarified that there is no substitute or exemption for this process.

Biometric Verification as the Only Entry Mode

Every candidate must successfully undergo biometric capturing before being allowed into the examination centre. This serves two primary purposes:

• Security: It prevents impersonation by ensuring the person sitting for the exam is the registered candidate.
• Attendance: The biometric system serves as the only official attendance register; no manual signing is permitted.

What Happens if Biometric Verification Fails?

JAMB has provided clear instructions for candidates facing technical issues during capturing:

• Candidates should not be kept waiting indefinitely at the gate.
• Affected candidates must be recaptured at the centre before leaving.
• Only genuine cases of verification failure will be moved forward for rescheduling or further action by the Board.

Guidelines for Examination Officials

All examination officials, including security personnel, are mandated to enforce these rules strictly. Every official involved must follow the guidelines to ensure the examination runs smoothly and fairly for all participants.