The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) made up of four subjects. Every candidate must take English Language, which is compulsory, along with three other subjects that relate to their chosen course of study. The entire exam carries a total of 400 marks, evenly distributed across the subjects.

Every year, thousands of students preparing for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) wonder: Understanding how the exam is structured - including the number of questions, marking system, and time limit - can make all the difference in your preparation and final score.

How Many Questions Are in the JAMB Exam?

In total, candidates are required to answer 180 questions during the UTME. The English Language section contains 60 questions, while each of the remaining three subjects - such as Mathematics, Economics, Government, Biology, Chemistry, or Physics - has 40 questions each.
This means that:
- English Language carries the highest number of questions because it is compulsory for all candidates and tests grammar, comprehension, lexis, structure, and oral forms.
- The other three subjects have equal weight, each testing core knowledge in specific areas relevant to your chosen course.

For instance, a Medicine and Surgery candidate will sit for English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, while a Law aspirant will write English, Literature in English, Government, and CRS.

JAMB Marking and Scoring System

JAMB’s total score is 400 marks. Each subject is graded over 100 marks, meaning that your performance in all four subjects determines your final score out of 400. Although JAMB does not officially use negative marking, it’s still important to answer carefully rather than randomly guessing, as the CBT system accurately tracks your choices.

The exam’s grading system uses a computerized formula that converts your raw score into a standardized mark. So while you may answer 180 questions, the computer scoring process ensures fairness and consistency across all candidates nationwide.

Exam Duration and Time Management

The JAMB CBT exam lasts for two hours (120 minutes). With 180 questions to answer, this gives you less than a minute per question. Efficient time management is crucial - try to avoid spending too long on a single question.

A smart approach is to start with the subject you’re most confident in. Many students also prefer to handle English comprehension early because it requires more reading time. Once you’ve completed the easier questions, go back to the tougher ones. The CBT system allows you to skip questions and return to them later, so always use that feature wisely.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how many questions are in JAMB and how they are distributed gives you a strategic advantage. You’ll know what to expect, how to allocate your time, and where to focus your preparation.

While scoring high in JAMB requires discipline and consistent practice, understanding the exam structure is the first step toward success. Remember: 180 questions, 400 marks, and 2 hours - that’s your battlefield. Prepare well, stay confident, and you’ll conquer it.