Essential Checklist: 9 Critical Items You Must Prepare Before 2026 JAMB Registration Opens

The 2026 UTME/DE registration window is anticipated to open in January. Meanwhile, JAMB has published preliminary guidelines to help candidates prepare adequately for the upcoming registration exercise. The process is expected to mirror last year’s pattern with one significant change: all candidates must now declare their current admission status during registration. This means you’ll indicate whether you’re already enrolled in any tertiary institution.

For prospective candidates planning to sit for the examination, this comprehensive guide highlights crucial steps to take before registration commences. To receive instant notifications from JAMB or your preferred institutions, download the Myschool app for your Android Device or iPhone/iOS Device. Alternatively, you can join our JAMB 2026 WhatsApp group and institution-specific WhatsApp groups.

Essential Items to Prepare Before 2026 JAMB Registration Begins

1. Obtain Your National Identification Number (NIN)

The National Identification Number remains an absolutely mandatory requirement for all UTME/DE candidates. Prospective candidates without a NIN should immediately visit any approved NIMC enrollment centre to complete their registration. A comprehensive step-by-step guide on acquiring your NIN has been shared previously. If assistance is needed, visit this link: NIN Application Guidelines for thorough instructions.

2. Secure a Registered Phone Number for Profile Code Generation

A profile code must be generated before you can proceed with registration. This is done by sending your NIN via a properly registered phone number to JAMB’s designated shortcode. Therefore, ensure you have access to a valid, registered mobile number. All subsequent SMS notifications from JAMB will be sent to this number. Consequently, it’s advisable to use your personal number or one you can easily access. For detailed instructions on profile code generation, check this link: Generate your 2026 JAMB registration profile code.

3. Create a Free Email Address

Your email address functions as a crucial backup for your JAMB profile. This becomes essential should you lose access to your registered phone number. Providing an email address during registration is compulsory and non-negotiable. Setting up an email account is both quick and completely free. Gmail is highly recommended and can be accessed easily at gmail.com.

4. Determine Your Preferred Course of Study

Now is the ideal time to decide which course you wish to pursue. This important decision requires careful deliberation and shouldn’t be rushed until registration begins. Choose a course that genuinely interests you and matches your academic strengths. Additionally, have a second-choice course ready as this increases your admission prospects. Both options will be required during the registration process.

5. Select Your Preferred Institution

Similarly, decide on your preferred institution before registration opens. Consider several critical factors when making this choice. Does the institution offer your desired course? What are their specific admission requirements? How affordable are the school fees? Where is the institution located? Furthermore, consider having backup options such as polytechnics or colleges of education. These alternatives will be requested when completing your JAMB registration form. To learn more about institutional selection, read: 5 things UTME candidates should consider before choosing an institution.

6. Verify Your Subject Combination

Every course requires a specific set of subjects for admission consideration. Therefore, selecting the correct subject combination for your chosen course and institution is essential. Many candidates make costly mistakes by choosing inappropriate subjects. This error can severely jeopardize their admission chances. Use the official JAMB Brochure to confirm the accurate subject combination before registration commences.

7. Request Guidance When Uncertain

If uncertainty exists regarding your course choice, institutional selection, or subject combination, don’t hesitate to seek help. The “Ask a Question” section on our website or mobile app/computer software provides expert assistance. A knowledgeable community stands ready to provide helpful answers. Alternatively, join our JAMB 2026 WhatsApp group for instant advice and prompt responses to your inquiries. Join here.

8. Familiarize Yourself with Registration Guidelines

The registration procedure is completed through three distinct steps:

Profile Code Generation → E-PIN purchase from authorized channels (e.g., banks) → Registration at JAMB-Approved CBT Centre

Critical Tips to Remember:

All issues concerning your NIN and biodata must be corrected at NIMC beforehand. This includes your name, date of birth, gender, and state of origin. Confirm that all changes have been successfully updated before registration begins.

Your GSM number and email address must be unique and fully functional. These credentials should not be changed, shared, or reused for other candidates under any circumstances.

If biometric problems are encountered during registration, visit the nearest JAMB office immediately. Never allow any CBT centre to forcefully register you without proper biometric capture.

A dual screen must be used during your registration process. Confirm that your passport photograph and biometric data are captured correctly. Also, cross-check all details thoroughly and verify that every piece of information is accurate before final submission by the registrant at the centre.

9. Begin Your Examination Preparation

Start your study preparations immediately without delay. Remember, success isn’t solely about studying hard; studying smart matters equally. Numerous questions in the UTME are repeated from previous examinations. Therefore, practicing past questions becomes absolutely crucial for success.

You can utilize the Myschool JAMB CBT Mobile App (designed for Android) or the Myschool JAMB CBT Software (optimized for computers). Both platforms contain over 60,000 past questions and comprehensive answers. Additionally, explore the Myschool CBT Classroom for more valuable study resources and materials.

Information for Schools, Institutions, and Tutorial Centers

Schools, institutions, and tutorial centers should establish their CBT facilities now. This enables them to become authorized JAMB CBT Agents or Training Centers. These facilities can then effectively train students for the upcoming examinations. For detailed information on getting started, click here.

Once UTME registration officially begins, detailed step-by-step instructions will be provided. These guidelines will ensure a smooth and hassle-free registration process for all candidates. Stay tuned and continue your preparations diligently!

Until then, remain prepared and stay ready for success!

Appreciation Note

Thank you sincerely for reading this comprehensive guide on preparing for the 2026 JAMB registration. We hope this information proves valuable in your examination journey. If you have any questions or need clarification concerning anything you’ve read, please feel free to ask in the comments section below.

Furthermore, consider sharing this article with friends and classmates who might benefit from this information. We wish you tremendous success in your upcoming JAMB examination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When will the 2026 JAMB registration begin?

The 2026 UTME/DE registration is expected to commence in January 2026. However, candidates should monitor official JAMB channels for the exact date announcement.

Is NIN compulsory for JAMB 2026 registration?

Yes, the National Identification Number (NIN) remains absolutely mandatory for all UTME and Direct Entry candidates. Registration cannot be completed without a valid NIN.

Can I use someone else’s phone number for my JAMB registration?

No, you should use your personal phone number or one you have constant access to. JAMB sends all important updates via SMS to the registered number.

What happens if I choose the wrong subject combination?

Choosing incorrect subjects can disqualify you from admission consideration even if you score high. Always verify your subject combination using the official JAMB brochure before registration.

Do I need both first and second choice institutions?

Yes, providing both first and second choice institutions (including backup options like polytechnics or colleges of education) increases your chances of securing admission.

How do I generate my JAMB profile code?

You generate your profile code by sending your NIN via SMS from a registered phone number to JAMB’s designated shortcode. Detailed instructions are usually provided by JAMB before registration begins.

Is email address mandatory for JAMB registration?

Yes, providing an email address is compulsory during registration. It serves as a backup contact method should you lose access to your registered phone number.

What should I do if I have biometric issues during registration?

Visit the nearest JAMB office immediately if you experience biometric problems. Never allow any CBT centre to forcefully register you without proper biometric capture.

When should I start preparing for JAMB 2026?

You should begin your preparation immediately. Early preparation, especially practicing past questions, significantly improves your chances of success in the examination.

Where can I practice JAMB past questions?

You can use the Myschool JAMB CBT Mobile App for Android devices or the Myschool JAMB CBT Software for computers. Both contain over 60,000 past questions and answers.