The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released the official details for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) registration exercise.
As usual, JAMB has cautioned candidates to be meticulous during registration, as early mistakes such as incorrect biodata, National Identification Number (NIN) mismatches, or incomplete records often create challenges that affect the entire admission process.
Below are the confirmed registration dates, requirements, approved fees, and step-by-step application process for JAMB 2026 candidates.
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JAMB 2026 UTME Registration Dates
Candidates intending to sit for the 2026 UTME should take note of the official schedule released by JAMB:
Sale of UTME e-PINs begins: Monday, January 19, 2026
UTME registration opens: Monday, January 26, 2026
End of e-PIN sales: Thursday, February 26, 2026
UTME registration closes: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Candidates are advised to register early to avoid network issues and overcrowding at CBT centres.
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Mock UTME and Main Examination Schedule
JAMB has also announced the examination timetable for 2026:
Optional Mock UTME: Saturday, March 28, 2026
Main UTME Examination: Thursday, April 16 – Saturday, April 25, 2026
The mock examination is not compulsory. It is designed to help candidates familiarize themselves with the Computer-Based Test (CBT) environment before the main exam.
Direct Entry (DE) Registration Dates for 2026
For Direct Entry candidates, JAMB has provided a separate registration window:
DE Registration Period: Monday, March 2 – Saturday, April 25, 2026
Important Notice:
Direct Entry registration is strictly conducted at JAMB State and Zonal Offices only. DE candidates are not allowed to register at CBT centres.
NIN Requirement: What Candidates Must Know
A valid National Identification Number (NIN) remains mandatory for all JAMB 2026 UTME and Direct Entry applicants.
JAMB confirmed that:
No registration can be completed without a valid NIN
Candidate biodata (name, date of birth, gender, state of origin) must exactly match NIMC records
Once a profile code is generated, JAMB automatically retrieves candidate details from the NIMC database
Any mismatch may result in registration failure or delays at CBT centres.
How to Apply for JAMB 2026 UTME & Direct Entry
Step 1: Prepare Before Registration
Candidates should ensure that:
Their NIN details are correct
They use a personal and active phone number
The phone number has never been used for another JAMB profile
Proper preparation helps prevent avoidable issues during registration.
Step 2: Generate Your JAMB Profile Code
To create your JAMB profile:
Send an SMS in this format:
NIN 12345678901 (replace with your 11-digit NIN)Send to 55019 or 66019
A 10-digit profile code will be sent to your phone. Keep it safe, as it will be required throughout the admission process.
Step 3: Purchase Your JAMB e-PIN
Using your profile code, purchase the JAMB e-PIN through:
Commercial banks
Approved online platforms
Accredited CBT centre vendors
Approved JAMB 2026 Registration Fees
JAMB has approved the following fixed prices for the 2026 registration:
Direct Entry: ₦5,700
UTME (without mock): ₦7,200
UTME (with mock): ₦8,700
These fees cover registration, reading text, CBT services, bank charges, and mock examination fees where applicable.
Step 4: Complete Registration at an Accredited CBT Centre
Candidates must complete their registration only at JAMB-accredited CBT centres.
At the centre, candidates will:
Submit profile code and e-PIN
Upload passport photograph
Capture fingerprints and biometrics
Select examination town, institutions, and courses
After completion, candidates will receive a printed JAMB registration slip, which serves as official proof of registration.
Candidates are strongly advised to keep:
All SMS notifications
Printed registration slips
These documents may be required for examinations, result checking, Post-UTME screening, and admission processing.
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Final Note to JAMB 2026 Candidates
JAMB has warned candidates to rely only on official channels and accredited centres, as fraudulent agents and misinformation tend to increase during the admission season.
Early registration, accurate biodata, and strict adherence to JAMB guidelines will significantly improve candidates’ chances of a smooth and successful admission process.
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