Common Technical Problems During UTME CBT Exams and Solutions

1. Experience Power Outage  

Power outages during UTME CBT exams can be unsettling, especially in areas prone to electricity issues. 

However, most accredited CBT centers are equipped with backup generators or alternative power solutions to ensure exams continue smoothly.

If a power outage occurs:

• Stay calm and avoid panicking; the invigilators are trained to handle such situations.
• Trust the system as your exam progress is automatically saved periodically. Once power is restored, you can pick up where you left off without losing your work.
• Report any issues to the invigilators immediately if you notice anything unusual when the system restarts,always ensure you choose a reputable CBT center known for reliable infrastructure to minimize the risk of power-related disruptions.

2. Face System Freezing  

Encountering a frozen system during your UTME CBT exam can be frustrating, but it’s a common technical issue that can be resolved quickly. Here’s how to handle it:

• Alert the invigilator immediately so they can address the problem, do not attempt to fix it yourself.
• Remain patient as the technical team works to resolve the issue, most CBT systems are designed to save your progress automatically, so you won’t lose your answers.
• Take a deep breath and use the time to mentally review questions you’ve already answered or plan your approach for the remaining ones, choosing a well-equipped CBT center with experienced staff reduces the chances of prolonged disruptions from system freezing.

3. Encounter Login Failure 

Login failures during UTME CBT exams can be unsettling, but they are usually caused by minor issues and can be quickly resolved. 

If you experience this:

• Double-check your credentials, including your registration number and password, to ensure you’re entering them correctly.
• Notify the invigilator immediately so they can assist or contact technical support to resolve the problem.
• Stay calm and wait for the issue to be fixed; it’s often a server connection glitch or system error, not a reflection of your preparation.
• Verify your registration details beforehand to confirm there are no discrepancies with the information provided during registration.
• Avoid rushing during login to reduce the chances of mistyping your credentials or overlooking simple instructions.

4. Notice Slow System Response  

A slow system during your UTME CBT exam can be distracting, but it’s usually manageable with the right approach. 

If you encounter this issue:

• Be patient and allow the system time to process your inputs rather than repeatedly clicking, which can worsen the lag.
• Report the problem to the invigilator immediately so they can check the system or escalate it to technical support.
• Use the downtime wisely by reviewing the questions you’ve already answered or strategizing for the remaining ones.
• Avoid panicking, as your progress is typically auto-saved, so you won’t lose your work.
• Choose a well-established CBT center with reliable infrastructure to minimize the chances of such issues occurring.

5. Lose Timer Display  

Losing the timer display during your UTME CBT exam can be disorienting, as it may feel like you’re losing track of time. 

However, it’s a manageable issue if handled properly. 

Here’s what to do:

• Stay calm and focus on answering the questions instead of worrying about the missing timer.
• Inform the invigilator immediately so they can assist in restoring the display or provide an alternative way to monitor time.
• Keep an eye on your progress, ensuring you allocate sufficient time for each section based on your pre-exam practice.
• Trust the system’s backup mechanisms, as your work and time are still being recorded even if the timer isn’t visible, always familiarize yourself with time management strategies before the exam to remain confident and composed in situations like this.

6. Deal with Unresponsive Devices

Unresponsive devices, such as a mouse or keyboard, can disrupt your flow during a UTME CBT exam, but there are practical steps to address this:

• Alert the invigilator as soon as you notice unresponsive issues so they can check or replace the malfunctioning device, never l attempt fixing it yourself.
• Maintain your composure, as technical support teams are readily available at accredited centers to quickly address and resolve any issues that may arise.
• Keep calm and be prepared to pick up where you left off, as the system automatically saves your progress, ensuring a smooth continuation of your exam once the issue is resolved.
• Use the time to strategize on how to approach the remaining questions once the device is operational again.
• Choose a reliable CBT center known for maintaining its equipment to reduce the likelihood of such disruptions, being proactive and composed during these situations ensures you maximize your exam performance despite technical setbacks.

Protips 

The following are protips for handling technical problems during UTME CBT exams: 

• Stay calm under pressure, as panicking can make the situation worse and affect your focus.
• Familiarize yourself with the CBT system beforehand by practicing with mock exams.
• Report any technical issues immediately to the invigilators or technical staff for quick resolution.
• Choose a reputable CBT center with reliable infrastructure to minimize technical glitches.
• Arrive early on exam day to settle in and address potential issues before the exam begins.
• Keep a positive mindset, knowing that most problems have solutions and won’t affect your overall performance.