Every year, hundreds of thousands of Nigerian students prepare to gain admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). Understanding JAMB registration dates, fees, deadlines, and closing dates for UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) and Direct Entry (DE) is essential to secure admission without unnecessary delays or complications.
With the 2026 academic session approaching, candidates must plan their registration carefully to meet JAMB’s timelines. Late registration may result in missing the opportunity for admission, facing additional charges, or being forced to wait for the next session. This comprehensive guide provides all the details Nigerian candidates need to register successfully for JAMB UTME and Direct Entry 2026.
What is JAMB?
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is the official body responsible for conducting entrance examinations for tertiary institutions in Nigeria. It oversees:
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UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination): Standardized exams for students seeking admission after secondary school.
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Direct Entry (DE): Admission route for candidates with advanced qualifications such as A-Level, NCE, or ND who want to enter 200 level directly.
Why JAMB Matters:
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JAMB UTME and Direct Entry scores are mandatory for admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
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Proper registration ensures candidates can select preferred courses, institutions, and exam centers.
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Timely registration reduces stress and avoids penalties for late enrollment.
Importance of JAMB Registration Dates and Deadlines
Missing the JAMB registration deadline can have severe consequences, including:
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Ineligibility to sit for UTME or DE exams – Late candidates are automatically excluded from the exam.
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Delayed admission – University or polytechnic admission may be postponed if registration is incomplete.
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Extra costs – Late registration may involve paying additional charges or fees.
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Stress and errors – Rushing registration can lead to mistakes, such as incorrect personal details or wrong choice of institution.
By adhering to the JAMB 2026 registration timeline, candidates maximize their chances of securing admission smoothly.
JAMB Registration Date and Closing Date for 2026
The official registration period for JAMB 2026 is announced by the board via press releases, online portals, and official notices. Based on previous years’ trends, candidates can expect the following schedule:
JAMB 2026 Expected Timeline:
| Stage | Expected Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Opens | January 2026 | UTME & Direct Entry registration begins at accredited centers. |
| Registration Closes | March/April 2026 | Last date for candidates to register to sit for the exams. |
| UTME Examination | April – May 2026 | Exams conducted for registered UTME candidates. |
| Direct Entry Examination | May – June 2026 | Exam or screening for DE candidates (varies by institution). |
| Release of Results | June – July 2026 | Candidates check results online or at JAMB offices. |
| Late Registration / Correction Window | February – March 2026 | Optional period for minor corrections or late entries (subject to fees). |
Pro Tip: Always confirm exact dates on the official JAMB website or accredited centers to avoid misinformation.
Who Can Register for JAMB UTME & Direct Entry?
Eligibility for UTME:
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Must have completed secondary school with at least five (5) O’Level credits including English and Mathematics.
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Must be at least 16 years old at the time of the exam.
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Must have valid identification (National ID, Birth Certificate, or Voter’s Card).
Eligibility for Direct Entry:
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Must hold advanced qualifications such as:
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Two A-Level passes
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NCE (Nigeria Certificate in Education)
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ND (National Diploma) with minimum credit in relevant subjects
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Must meet the specific admission requirements of chosen institutions.
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Must provide O’Level results alongside DE qualifications.
By ensuring eligibility, candidates can avoid registration rejection or exam disqualification.
How to Register for JAMB UTME & Direct Entry 2026
JAMB registration is conducted through accredited CBT (Computer-Based Test) centers across Nigeria. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Visit an Accredited JAMB CBT Center
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Only use JAMB-accredited centers to avoid scams.
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Bring original identification and recent passport photographs.
Step 2: Fill the Registration Form
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Provide personal information, including full name, date of birth, and contact details.
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Choose preferred courses and institutions carefully.
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Select your exam type: UTME or Direct Entry.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
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Passport photograph.
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Identification document (National ID, Voter’s Card, or Birth Certificate).
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O’Level results for UTME, or advanced qualifications for DE candidates.
Step 4: Pay Registration Fees
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Payment can be made at banks, online platforms, or CBT centers.
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Fees vary depending on UTME or Direct Entry registration.
Step 5: Print JAMB Slip
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After successful registration, print the examination slip.
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The slip contains exam date, venue, and registration number.
Tips:
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Double-check all details before submission to prevent errors.
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Keep multiple copies of your slip for reference.
JAMB Registration Fees 2026
Estimated JAMB fees for 2026 (subject to official announcement):
| Exam Type | Estimated Fee (Naira) |
|---|---|
| UTME (1 – 9 subjects) | ₦7,500 – ₦10,000 |
| Direct Entry | ₦8,000 – ₦11,000 |
| Late Registration / Correction | ₦1,000 – ₦2,000 extra |
Always confirm fees at accredited centers to avoid fraudulent charges.
JAMB UTME & Direct Entry Exam Structure
UTME Exam Structure
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UTME is computer-based and covers four subjects relevant to chosen course.
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Subjects typically include:
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English Language (mandatory)
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Mathematics/Science/Arts subject combination depending on chosen course
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Exam duration: 2 – 3 hours
Direct Entry Exam Structure
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DE candidates may take a screening exam, submit prior qualifications, or both.
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Institutions review previous results and may conduct interviews or written tests.
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DE is designed for candidates entering 200 level directly.
Tips to Avoid Missing JAMB Deadlines
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Register Early – Avoid waiting until the last week; early registration ensures preferred exam centers and reduces stress.
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Verify Details – Errors in name, date of birth, or contact info may lead to disqualification.
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Track Important Dates – Use calendars, reminders, or official announcements.
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Prepare Required Documents – Ensure all identification and academic records are ready.
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Use Official Centers Only – Avoid unaccredited centers to prevent scams.
Common Challenges Candidates Face
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Portal Downtime – System crashes can occur during peak registration.
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Payment Failures – Bank or online payment errors.
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Document Errors – Incorrect or missing ID or results.
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Late Registration – Missing deadlines leading to disqualification.
Proper planning and early registration minimize these risks.
Summary Table: JAMB Registration 2026 at a Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | January 2026 |
| Registration Closes | March/April 2026 |
| UTME Exam | April – May 2026 |
| Direct Entry Exam | May – June 2026 |
| Late Registration / Correction | February – March 2026 |
| Required Documents | ID, Passport Photo, O’Level or DE qualifications |
| Exam Fees | ₦7,500 – ₦11,000 depending on exam type |
| Eligible Candidates | 16+, UTME or DE candidates, O’Level holders |
| Accreditation | Fully recognized JAMB examination |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When does JAMB registration start for 2026?
Registration is expected to start in January 2026. Confirm with the official JAMB website.
2. Can adults register for UTME or Direct Entry?
Yes, there is no maximum age limit for JAMB UTME or Direct Entry.
3. How do I pay JAMB registration fees?
Payments are made at accredited banks, online platforms, or CBT centers. Payment confirmation is required.
4. How many subjects can I register for in UTME?
UTME candidates usually register for four subjects, including English Language.
5. Can JAMB UTME or DE results be used for university admission?
Yes, results are mandatory for admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
6. What happens if I miss the registration deadline?
You may be excluded from the 2026 session and will have to wait for the next cycle.
7. Do I need previous results for DE registration?
Yes, DE candidates must provide prior qualifications such as ND, NCE, or A-Level.
8. Can I change my course or institution after registration?
Yes, changes are allowed only during the correction window before the exam.
9. Where can I register safely for JAMB 2026?
Only at accredited CBT centers or official JAMB portals to avoid fraud.
10. How long does it take to complete JAMB registration?
Registration typically takes 30 – 60 minutes if all documents and payment are ready.
Conclusion: Secure Your Admission Path
The JAMB 2026 registration date, fees, deadline, and closing date are critical milestones for Nigerian candidates seeking tertiary education. Timely registration, careful planning, and adherence to official guidelines are essential to avoid disqualification or delays.
Whether you are a first-time UTME candidate or a Direct Entry applicant, following this guide ensures a smooth registration process, access to preferred courses and institutions, and readiness for examinations.
Start preparing today: gather your documents, confirm deadlines, and register early to secure your JAMB 2026 UTME or Direct Entry slot. Your academic and career future depends on it.