The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is the gateway to higher education in Nigeria, conducting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for millions of aspiring students annually. For the 2026/2027 academic session, JAMB continues to emphasize the use of accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres to ensure a fair, secure, and efficient registration and examination process. These centres are rigorously vetted to meet stringent technical, infrastructural, and operational standards, including reliable power supply, high-speed internet, biometric verification systems, and trained personnel.
In Zamfara State, located in northwestern Nigeria and comprising 14 local government areas (LGAs) such as Gusau, Kaura Namoda, and Talata Mafara, access to quality education remains a priority despite challenges like security concerns and rural-urban disparities. JAMB has accredited a modest number of CBT centres here—six as of the latest 2025 updates—to serve candidates effectively. This number reflects Zamfara’s position as having the fewest accredited centres nationwide, underscoring the need for strategic planning by students.
Why does this matter for the 2026/2027 session? Registration for UTME and Direct Entry (DE) typically begins in early 2026, with exams in April or May. Using only approved centres prevents issues like invalid profiles, data loss, or examination malpractices, which could jeopardize your admission chances. Services at these centres include creating JAMB profiles, purchasing e-PINs, biometric capturing, O’Level result uploads, course/institution changes, and mock/practice exams. Fees are standardized: N700 for registration services plus the JAMB form cost (around N7,700 for UTME in recent years, subject to updates).
This guide provides a comprehensive list of accredited centres in Zamfara, drawn from official JAMB sources and recent approvals. We also cover tips for selection, preparation, and common pitfalls. Always verify the latest list on the JAMB portal (www.jamb.gov.ng) or via the state office, as accreditations can change post-2025 reviews. With proper preparation, Zamfara candidates can navigate this process smoothly and focus on achieving scores above the projected cut-off of 140-160.
List of Accredited JAMB CBT Centres in Zamfara State
Based on JAMB’s 2025 accreditation exercise, which serves as the baseline for 2026/2027 pending minor updates, Zamfara has six approved centres. These are distributed across key LGAs, primarily Gusau (the state capital) and Kaura Namoda, to cover urban and semi-urban areas. Rural candidates may need to travel, so plan ahead. Note: The JAMB State Office in Gusau handles registrations only and not full exams.
| S/N | LGA/Town | Centre Name | Full Address | Contact/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gusau | Federal College of Education (Technical) | Along Zaria Road, Gusau, Zamfara State | Full services; biometric-enabled |
| 2 | Gusau | JAMB State Office | No. 8 Sokoto Road, Opposite Wambai House, P.M.B. 01120, Gusau, Zamfara State | Registration only; Tel: 0700-5262-926; Email: zamfara@jamb.gov.ng |
| 3 | Gusau | Zamfara College of Arts and Science (ZACAS) | CBT Centre, Old Yahaya Gusau Secretariat, Sokoto Road, Gusau, Zamfara State | Exam and registration; spacious hall |
| 4 | Gusau | Zamfara State College of Arts and Science | Along Sokoto Road, Gusau, Zamfara State | Alternative to ZACAS; power backup |
| 5 | Kaura Namoda | Nananet Global Fleet CBT Center | RN101, Opposite Staff Quarters Gate, Government Technical College, Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State | Western zone coverage; practice tests available |
| 6 | Talata Mafara | Talata Mafara Development Trust Fund CBT Center | Zonal Education Office, Opposite GGC, Talata Mafara, Zamfara State | Southern access; O’Level uploads |
These centres were confirmed in JAMB’s nationwide audit, which increased total Nigerian centres to 784 from 747 in prior years. In Zamfara, the focus is on reliability over quantity, with each site equipped for at least 200 candidates daily during peak registration. For 2026/2027, expect potential additions in underserved LGAs like Anka or Zurmi if JAMB’s ongoing accreditation (commenced December 2024) approves new applicants. Visit centres early—registration windows are usually 4-6 weeks—to avoid queues.
How to Choose and Use a CBT Centre
Selecting the right centre is crucial. Proximity reduces travel stress, but prioritize those with positive reviews for minimal technical glitches. Use Google Maps or ask locals for directions. Upon arrival:
- Profile Creation: If new, generate your JAMB profile code via USSD (*55019#) or the e-facility portal.
- Registration Process: Present your code, O’Level results, and passport photo. Biometrics (thumbprint, photo) are captured on-site.
- Payment: Buy e-PIN from banks or remita.net, then pay service fees at the centre.
- Post-Registration: Reprint slips, upload results (N500 fee), or correct data (N2,500) here.
Pro Tip: Practice with the JAMB CBT app on your phone beforehand. Centres often offer mock sessions for N500-1,000.
Challenges and Solutions in Zamfara
Zamfara’s terrain and security dynamics can complicate access. Centres in Gusau are safest and most equipped, but for those in Birnin Magaji or Maru, coordinate group travel. JAMB partners with local authorities for safe corridors during exams. If a centre faces power outages (common in rural areas), backups like generators are mandatory.
For 2026/2027, JAMB’s “Autobot” pre-exam testing ensures centres are glitch-free. Report issues via the JAMB helpline (0700-5262-644).
Preparation Tips for Success
- Study Smart: Aim for 200+ in UTME. Use past questions from centres.
- Documents: Carry NIN, birth certificate, and indemnity form.
- Health: Arrive early, hydrated; no food in halls.
- Post-Exam: Check results via SMS or portal; prepare for POST-UTME.
With dedication, Zamfara students have topped national scores before— you can too!
READ ALSO: Accredited JAMB CBT Centres in Yobe State for 2026/2027
FAQs
Can I register at any CBT centre outside Zamfara?
Yes, but choose one in your state of origin or residence to avoid logistics issues. JAMB assigns exam centres based on registration location.
What if my preferred centre is full during registration?
Visit alternatives promptly. JAMB caps daily slots to prevent overcrowding.
What happens if there’s a technical fault during my exam?
JAMB reschedules affected candidates. Centres must have 95% uptime.
Can I change my exam centre after registration?
No, but JAMB may reassign for equity or security reasons.
Is the JAMB State Office a full CBT centre?
No, it’s registration-only; head to ZACAS or FCE for exams.
What documents are needed for O’Level upload?
Original WAEC/NECO slips and photos. Fee: N500.
Are mock exams compulsory?
Voluntary but recommended; simulates real conditions.
