JAMB 2026 UTME/DE Registration Guide: Complete Application Process and Requirements

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has released the comprehensive registration procedures for the 2026 UTME/DE exercise. E-PIN sales for UTME registration commence on Monday, 19th January 2026. The sales will conclude on Thursday, 26th February 2026. Meanwhile, actual registration opens on Monday, 26th January 2026. It closes on Saturday, 28th February 2026. For Direct Entry applicants, both e-PIN vending and registration start on Monday, 2nd March 2026. These processes end on Saturday, 25th April 2026. We strongly recommend reviewing all preparatory materials before beginning your registration. This ensures a smooth application experience.

Becoming a JAMB CBT Center

Educational institutions, tutorial centers, business hubs, and cyber cafes can establish CBT centers. These facilities can serve as JAMB CBT agents. They also function as training centers for exam preparation. Organizations interested in this opportunity should visit the official registration portal. Detailed setup instructions are available there.

General Application Information

Tertiary institutions across Nigeria invite applications for the 2026/27 academic session. Qualified candidates should apply through the proper channels.

Age Requirements and Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be at least 16 years old by 30th September 2026. This is the standard age requirement. Candidates younger than 16 by this date face additional scrutiny. They must undergo intensive evaluation for possible waiver consideration. Such applicants need exceptional performance across multiple assessments. They must score at least 80% in UTME/A-Level examinations. Similar scores are required in PUTME and SSCE. The exceptional candidate assessment also demands this high standard. Results for underage candidates will be withheld until evaluation completes.

Biodata and Profile Updates

Once candidates complete their 2026 registration using NIMC biodata, subsequent changes become restricted. JAMB will not process biodata alterations for 2026 admission purposes. This policy is strictly enforced without exceptions. However, updates made by NIMC to previous data can be reflected. Affected candidates must initiate a re-query process. They should use template TEMPL007 during the 2026 registration period. This retrieves updated information from NIMC databases. All replaced data will be tracked permanently. Previous information appears as footnotes on candidate profiles and printed slips.

Registration Fees and Payment Structure

JAMB maintains its cashless registration system for 2026. This prevents candidate exploitation. Centralized collection of third-party fees continues this year. Beneficiaries receive weekly remittances.

Three E-PIN Categories Available

Direct Entry: N5,700

UTME Only (without Mock): N7,200

UTME with Mock Exam: N8,700

Fee Breakdown Details

• UTME/DE JAMB Application Fee: N3,500
• Reading Text Purchase: N1,000
• CBT Center Registration Service: N700
• CBT Center UTME Service: N1,500
• Bank Processing Charges: N500
• CBT Mock-UTME Center Fee: N1,500

Candidates must specify their required e-PIN type during purchase. No refunds will be issued after payment.

Biometric Integrity and Security Measures

Candidates must ensure personal fingerprint capture at CBT centers. All ten fingers should be scanned individually. Accurate capture is essential for verification purposes. Impersonation attempts will be severely penalized.

Multiple NIN Usage Prohibition

Using multiple National Identification Numbers is strictly forbidden. A single candidate cannot register twice using different NIMs. This prevents impersonation and identity fraud. Violators face severe sanctions from the Board.

Important Registration Dates

UTME registration (including foreign candidates) runs from Monday, 26th January 2026 to Saturday, 28th February 2026. Candidates need valid, functional email addresses before starting. These addresses must remain accessible throughout the process.

E-PIN vending for UTME starts Monday, 19th January 2026. It ends Thursday, 26th February 2026. Registration closes two days later on Saturday, 28th February 2026.

Direct Entry application document sales begin Monday, 2nd March 2026. E-PIN vending for DE follows the same schedule. Both processes conclude on Saturday, 25th April 2026. These services are available exclusively at JAMB State and Zonal Offices.

Access the official JAMB e-BROCHURE and e-SYLLABUS for comprehensive guidance.

Minimum Entry Requirements

100 Level Degree/ND/NCE (UTME) Requirements

Degree Programs: Five credit passes minimum in English and relevant subjects. Results must come from not more than two sittings. Mathematics is mandatory for Science, Technology, and Social Science programs.

ND/NCE Programs: Four credit passes in relevant subjects. English is required for non-science courses. Mathematics is compulsory for science programs.

Direct Entry Qualification Standards

Applicants need five SSCE O-Level credit passes maximum from two sittings. At least two credits must be at Principal or Advanced level. Alternative acceptable qualifications include First Degrees from Nigerian universities. University Diplomas are recognized. National Diplomas (accepted only up to 2024 intake) qualify applicants. Nigeria French Language Diploma and National Arabic Language Diploma are valid. Higher National Diploma holders can apply. NCE certificate holders are eligible. A-Level certificates from IJMB, JUPEB, and NABTEB programs work. First degrees from foreign universities are accepted. Cambridge A-Level qualifications are recognized. International Baccalaureate (foreign certificates only) is valid. Foreign GCE A-Level meets requirements. Transnational Foundation Certificates are acceptable. Awarding institutions must forward verification to JAMB before registration completion.

Pre-verification of DE qualifications is strongly advised before completing registration.

Required Information for DE Registration

All Direct Entry candidates must provide specific details during registration:

a) Registration/Matriculation number from previous institution b) Subjects of obtained qualification
c) Name of awarding institution d) Affiliated institution attended (if applicable) e) Graduation year

Critical DE Registration and Admission Guidelines

Non-awaiting result DE candidates must upload A-Level qualifications at registration. O-Level results are also required. The DE Registration Template must be submitted. Awaiting result status for O-Level disqualifies candidates from DE registration.

DE candidates await admission processing until claimed results are uploaded. Awarding institutions must verify these through JAMB e-facility platform.

Candidates awaiting IJMB/JUPEB/NABTEB A-Level results must upload admission letters. Registration templates are also required at registration time.

Applicants with pre-2020 Cambridge certificates should contact Cambridge directly. Verification takes up to 28 days as specified. Results are then forwarded to JAMB. Verification appears in the candidate’s e-Facility profile.

Statement of results (replacing certificates) is accepted for three years from award date. NCE holders have only one year for this provision.

UTME to DE upgrade is available under specific conditions. Candidates’ A-Level results must be unreleased at UTME registration. They must have indicated awaiting status during initial registration. Particulars must be supplied in the uploaded registration template.

Candidates should regularly check A-Level admission status in e-facility profiles. Verification status shows as “CLEARED” or “NOT CLEARED” with explanatory reasons.

Additional Critical Registration Rules

Multiple registrations are strictly prohibited. Errors during registration require official correction from JAMB. Fresh applications are not permitted as duplication invalidates all submissions.

Registration occurs exclusively at JAMB-approved centers nationwide. Candidates registering at unauthorized centers assume full risk. Approved CBT center lists appear on www.jamb.gov.ng.

Non-candidates cannot transact business on candidate profiles. This includes parents, guardians, and proxies. Sharing passwords, profile codes, or security details with others creates liability. Any alterations by third parties become the candidate’s responsibility.

Mandatory Previous Admission Disclosure

Candidates must disclose their matriculation status during registration. Previous registration details with UTME/DE year are required. False declarations or non-disclosure automatically invalidate current registration. Previous admissions also become void. Changing institutions or programs after prior admission is permitted. However, failing to disclose previous matriculation constitutes an offense.

Institution Choice Selection

Every candidate’s first choice can be any accredited institution. Options include Colleges of Education, Universities, and Polytechnics/Monotechnics. Nigerian Defence Academy and Police Academy are also available.

Step-by-Step Registration Procedure

Profile Creation Process

Each candidate requires a unique mobile phone number for registration. One SIM card serves one candidate only. This number becomes your permanent identifier for all JAMB transactions.

Candidates obtaining SIMs solely for JAMB registration should utilize Keep My Number (KMN) services. Telcos offer this facility to prevent SIM deactivation. KMN keeps inactive SIMs alive for three years initially. The service is renewable afterward.

Candidates send their National Identification Number via SMS to 55019 or 66019. Use your personal GSM number for this. Type “NIN” followed by a space. Add your 11-digit NIN and send. Format example: NIN 00123456789. A space must separate “NIN” from your number. The number must be unused for previous UTME/DE registrations. Post-paid or special bundle lines don’t work without special credit loading.

A 10-character Profile Code arrives on the same telephone number. Returning candidates receive their previous profile code on the same number. This profile remains permanent for future applications.

Candidates must remember their email addresses and phone numbers. These details are crucial for subsequent Board communication.

Purchasing UTME application documents means accepting text messages from JAMB. Messages come from 55019 or 66019 even with “Do Not Disturb” activated.

JAMB does not entertain SIM number change requests after profile creation.

Candidates present profile codes when procuring application documents. Banks, MMOs, MFBs, Switches, and USSD Partners accept these. An e-PIN is sent via text message afterward.

Present both Profile Code and e-PIN at accredited CBT Centers for registration.

Applications remain incomplete until biometric capture occurs. All ten fingerprints must be recorded. Physical photographs are taken at centers. No passport photograph submissions are accepted. Successful biometric and photo capture authorizes e-registration slip printing. Candidates use at least two fingers for verification. Any of the two fingers can print registration slips. Fingerprint verification is required for subsequent JAMB transactions.

Group or school-based candidate registration is forbidden. Most candidates later regret this approach.

Only candidates passing biometric verification on exam day can sit UTME or Mock examinations.

Candidates with peculiar biometric challenges can register at JAMB National and State offices. State offices facilitate these arrangements.

Profile Code Recovery and Self-Service

Lost Profile Codes are retrievable by sending “RESEND” to 55019 or 66019. Use the same mobile number for this text message. Forgotten Profile Passwords can be reset similarly. Send “PASSWORD” followed by a space and email address. Use your registered cell phone number for this SMS to 55019 or 66019.

Free Complaint Ticketing System

All complaints regarding JAMB processes should go through the ticketing system. This includes NIN and Profile Code issues. Visit https://www.jamb.gov.ng and select Quicklinks. Then choose Ticket/Support using your registered email. Provide your name and phone number. Describe the complaint nature and select from dropdown options. Summarize the issue briefly. Attach supporting documents if available.

Third-party complaints are merely noted. The Board doesn’t discuss candidate matters with others. Written letters are unnecessary. Channel all complaints through the online ticketing system for prompt attention and documentation.

JAMB E-PIN Sales Points

E-PIN outlets include NIPOST, Banks, MMOs, and MFBs. Other participating financial institutions also sell e-PINs.

Outlet Responsibilities

Participating financial outlets collect profile codes directly from candidates’ phones. They process payments and vend e-PINs electronically via SMS. No manual dictation or code copying occurs. POS systems facilitate payments. Payment evidence is provided to candidates.

Payment Steps

Present your Profile Code and pay the applicable fee. Options are N5,700 (DE), N7,200 (UTME without Mock), or N8,700 (UTME with Mock). The e-PIN delivers to your unique telephone number immediately.

Foreign Center Registration Procedure

The Board conducts registration and UTME in ten foreign cities. These include Abidjan, Accra, Banjul, Benin, and Cotonou. Jeddah, Johannesburg, London, Malabo, and Ouagadougou complete the list. Nigerian Missions (Embassies) in each location provide guidance. Registration and examination information is available there. Registration fees for foreign candidates are thirty United States Dollars ($30). Local currency equivalents are accepted in each country.

Free Application Document Donations

Persons or organizations wishing to distribute free application documents should contact JAMB. Call +2348027641663 or email [email protected] for special offers.

E-PIN Recovery After Payment

Unreceived or lost e-PINs are recoverable. Send “UTMEPIN” from your unique number to 55019 or 66019. The e-PIN retrieves and delivers to your registered phone number.

After successful payment and e-PIN receipt, proceed to accredited CBT centers. Complete your registration there.

Accredited Registration Centers

Registration happens exclusively at accredited Computer-Based Test centers. Visit any accredited CBT center with your profile code and e-PIN. The complete list appears on JAMB’s website (https://www.jamb.gov.ng) and at JAMB offices.

Live Registration Monitoring

All 2026 registration centers must be monitored live from headquarters. Centers whose activities aren’t viewed from headquarters won’t receive payment. Such registrations may be invalidated.

Completing Registration at CBT Centers

Candidates must personally present Profile Codes and e-PINs at accredited centers. Photographs and biometrics (all ten fingerprints) are captured there.

Candidate Responsibilities

Note that center and bank charges (N700/N500) are included in total e-PIN fees. JAMB remits these to centers. No additional fees should be paid at centers.

Provide valid, functional personal email addresses. These must remain accessible indefinitely.

Supply qualification details with grades and dates. Awaiting results candidates are exempted.

Upload relevant certificates to the system.

Provide institutional choices and course of study preferences. Select UTME subjects carefully. Choose examination towns for optional Mock and actual UTME.

Review all entries thoroughly for correctness.

Print Registration Slip using biometric authentication. This confirms valid fingerprints (UTME/DE). Authentication with fingerprints removes error blame from CBT centers. Check carefully before confirming with your fingerprint.

Awaiting results candidates should upload results online immediately when available. Use the JAMB portal for this. No institutional recommendations are considered without portal uploads. Institutions cannot take new photographs or biometrics. Additional result uploads are not allowed. All results are downloadable by institutions from JAMB’s website. Downloads are tracked to prevent abuse.

NIN particulars must match information on supporting documents.

Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)

Special provisions ensure inclusivity for disabled candidates. The following categories should indicate their disability for special attention.

Blind/Muted (Deaf) Candidates

Blind candidates select “BLIND” from dropdown options. Choose the closest designated JEOG center. Indicate preferred examination mode. Special indicators identify deaf/mute candidates for special attention during examinations. The Board fully refunds registration fees for blind candidates. Deaf candidates and wheelchair users with required five credits also receive refunds.

Other Disability Categories

Candidates with Albinism, Down Syndrome, Autism, or Dyslexia should indicate their condition. Those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are included. Amputees, lame, paralyzed, and Cerebral Palsy patients should click appropriate boxes. Candidates with disfigurements are also covered. Indication assigns candidates to JAMB Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG) for special attention.

Biometric Challenge Management

Candidates without verified biometrics cannot enter examination halls. Sitting the examination is prohibited without verification.

Candidates with biometric abnormalities register exclusively at Abuja headquarters. The Board facilitates their travel arrangements.

2026 UTME Examination Dates and Venues

The 2026 UTME commences Thursday, 16th April 2026. It concludes Saturday, 25th April 2026.

Examinations occur at any center within the candidate’s chosen town.

JAMB does not post candidates to towns other than their chosen location. Register early as preferred towns may reach capacity. Choosing a town group means possible posting to any town within that group.

Registration Fee and E-PIN Procurement

Purchased e-PINs are tied to individual profiles. They are non-transferable between candidates.

Keep security details private and confidential. This includes registration numbers and passwords. ATM card numbers, email addresses, and e-PINs require protection. No center should request or accept candidate passwords.

Optional Mock UTME

Mock UTME (optional) holds on Saturday, 28th March 2026.

General Information and Guidelines

Registration fees are non-refundable under any circumstances.

Candidates should read and understand admission guidelines thoroughly. Instructions shown on QR codes explain online registration completion. Read these before commencing registration. Sign the indemnity on ethical standards.

Regardless of program choice, all candidates face testing on “The Lekki Headmaster” by Kabir Alabi Garba. Everyone must read this general text.

Candidates and officials cannot bring earphones to examination centers. Wristwatches, mobile phones, and electronic devices are prohibited. Pens and biros are not allowed. Only pencils are permitted.

The Board does not require cybercafe services for registration. Schools and establishments (except accredited CBT centers) are unauthorized. Candidates using such facilities do so at their own risk.

Examination malpractice constitutes a criminal offense. Penalties include result cancellation and name publication. Offenders face prosecution. Read and endorse the ‘Attestation Clause’ on the registration portal.

Valid Admission Procedures

All institutional admissions must originate from JAMB. Only e-Facility printed admissions are valid. Tertiary institution offers without JAMB admission letters are illegal. Such admissions are irredeemably null and void. Candidates accepting admission outside CAPS assume full risk. The Board neither recognizes nor condones such admissions. No regularization of illegal admission occurs.

Final Examination Preparation

Prepare for exams using the Myschool JAMB CBT Mobile App for Android. Alternatively, use Myschool JAMB CBT Software for computers. Both contain over 60,000 past questions with comprehensive answers. Adequate preparation is guaranteed. Check out Myschool CBT Classroom for additional resources. Join the Myschool WhatsApp group for JAMB 2026 candidates. Ask questions freely and share concerns. Receive instant answers from community members.

Thank you for reading this comprehensive guide on JAMB 2026 UTME/DE registration. We appreciate your time and attention to these important details. If you have any questions concerning what you’ve read, feel free to ask in the comments section below. Your success in this registration process is important to us. Please share this guide with friends and classmates who may benefit from this information. We wish you the very best in your JAMB registration and upcoming examinations. Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: When does JAMB 2026 UTME registration begin and end? UTME registration starts on Monday, 26th January 2026 and closes on Saturday, 28th February 2026. E-PIN sales begin earlier on Monday, 19th January 2026 and end Thursday, 26th February 2026.

Q2: What are the different e-PIN categories and their costs? There are three e-PIN categories: Direct Entry (N5,700), UTME Only without Mock (N7,200), and UTME with Mock (N8,700). Choose carefully as no refunds are issued after purchase.

Q3: Can I register for JAMB if I’m under 16 years old? Candidates must be at least 16 years old by 30th September 2026. Those younger must undergo intensive evaluation and score at least 80% in UTME/A-Level, PUTME, SSCE, and exceptional candidate assessment for possible waiver.

Q4: How do I create my JAMB profile? Send your 11-digit NIN via SMS to 55019 or 66019 in this format: “NIN 00123456789” (with a space between NIN and your number). You’ll receive a 10-character Profile Code on the same phone number.

Q5: What documents do I need for Direct Entry registration? You need five SSCE O-Level credit passes (maximum two sittings), A-Level qualification or equivalent, registration/matriculation number from previous institution, uploaded certificates, and completed DE Registration Template.

Q6: Can I change my biodata after registration? No. Once you complete 2026 registration with NIMC biodata, JAMB won’t process subsequent changes. Only NIMC updates can be reflected through a re-query process using template TEMPL007.

Q7: Where can I register for JAMB? Registration occurs exclusively at JAMB-approved CBT centers nationwide. The complete list is available on www.jamb.gov.ng and at JAMB offices. Avoid unauthorized centers.

Q8: What happens if I lose my e-PIN after payment? Send “UTMEPIN” from your unique registered number to 55019 or 66019. Your e-PIN will be retrieved and delivered to your phone number.

Q9: Is the Mock UTME examination compulsory? No, the Mock UTME is optional and holds on Saturday, 28th March 2026. You can choose to register for UTME with or without Mock during e-PIN purchase.

Q10: When will the 2026 UTME examination hold? The 2026 UTME commences on Thursday, 16th April 2026 and ends on Saturday, 25th April 2026. Examinations take place at centers within your chosen examination town.