The [Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB)](https://www.jamb.gov.ng) confirmed that candidates will be able to write the 2026 [Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME)](https://www.jamb.gov.ng/utme) in ten designated overseas locations, allowing both Nigerians living abroad and foreign nationals to apply for Nigerian tertiary institutions without travelling to Nigeria.
**Key details**
- The list was released in the JAMB Bulletin dated 18 May 2026 (Vol. 4, No. 85).
- It follows heightened interest after JAMB announced a new centre in Ottawa, Canada, for the 2027 session.
- JAMB deployed officials to each foreign centre to oversee the examination process.
- Two centres – Jeddah (Saudi Arabia) and Buea (Cameroon) – could not hold the exam on the scheduled dates due to unforeseen circumstances; new dates will be announced.
- The foreign UTME is part of JAMB’s strategy to position Nigerian universities in the global education market and to attract overseas applicants.
Which countries host the 2026 foreign UTME?
- **United Kingdom** – London serves as the designated centre.
- **Burkina Faso** – Candidates in Ouagadougou can sit for the exam.
- **Côte d’Ivoire** – The centre is located in Abidjan.
- **Equatorial Guinea** – Malabo hosts the examination.
- **The Gambia** – Banjul is the appointed venue.
- **Ghana** – Accra provides the testing site.
- **Benin Republic** – Cotonou is the selected centre.
- **Saudi Arabia** – Jeddah was slated as a centre but will be rescheduled.
- **Cameroon** – Buea was also postponed pending a new date.
- **South Africa** – Johannesburg completes the list of foreign sites.
Why does JAMB run the UTME abroad?
The overseas programme aims to broaden access for Nigerians residing outside the country and to draw international students eager to study in Nigeria. By offering the exam in multiple regions, JAMB seeks to make the admission process more convenient and to enhance the global profile of Nigerian higher‑education institutions.
A JAMB spokesperson noted, “The foreign UTME centres are essential for expanding educational opportunities and showcasing Nigeria’s academic offerings on an international stage.”