JAMB Registration Requirements for UTME Candidates in 2026

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) remains the primary gateway into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. Every year, millions of young Nigerians sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) with the dream of securing admission into their preferred institution and course of study.

As the competition grows tougher, understanding the JAMB registration requirements for UTME candidates in 2026 is more important than ever. Missing a single requirement can delay your registration, disqualify your application, or even cost you an entire admission year.

This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of everything you need to know about the 2026 JAMB UTME registration requirements. It explains eligibility, documents needed, registration steps, common mistakes to avoid, and tips for securing admission success.

We will cover:

• Why understanding JAMB registration requirements is important

• Basic eligibility for UTME candidates in 2026

• Academic qualifications needed

• Essential documents and biometric requirements

• Approved registration centers and how the process works

• Payment and e-PIN purchase guidelines

• Choice of institutions and course selection rules

• Mistakes to avoid during JAMB registration

• Summary table of key requirements

• 10+ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) with clear answers

• Conclusion with actionable steps for aspirants

By the end of this article, you will not only know what is required but also understand how to prepare effectively for JAMB registration in 2026.

Why Knowing JAMB Registration Requirements Matters

Many Nigerian students underestimate the importance of carefully reviewing registration requirements before starting the UTME process. However, failure to meet even one requirement can have severe consequences.

Here’s why it matters:

• Prevents Disqualification: Meeting all requirements ensures your registration is accepted by JAMB without issues.

• Saves Time and Money: Proper preparation reduces the risk of repeating the process, paying additional fees, or missing deadlines.

• Boosts Admission Chances: A smooth registration allows you to focus fully on exam preparation instead of administrative challenges.

• Ensures Eligibility: JAMB sets strict guidelines to ensure candidates have the right academic foundation for tertiary education.

• Avoids Stress: Understanding requirements in advance reduces last-minute panic and mistakes.

For 2026 UTME, JAMB has continued its emphasis on transparency, biometric verification, and valid documentation. Candidates should carefully follow the official process to avoid complications.

Basic Eligibility for JAMB UTME 2026

Before you begin registration, you must confirm that you are eligible to sit for the JAMB UTME. Below are the major requirements:

1. Age Requirement

• Candidates must be at least 16 years old by the time of admission into the chosen institution.

• While younger candidates may attempt the exam, most universities in Nigeria enforce the 16-year minimum for admission.

2. Academic Background

• Candidates must have completed or be about to complete senior secondary school (SSS3).

• Both WAEC and NECO candidates (including awaiting results) are eligible to apply.

• Private candidates who sat for GCE or NABTEB can also register.

3. Citizenship

• Only Nigerian citizens and recognized residents are eligible.

• Foreign candidates who intend to study in Nigeria must follow special registration guidelines (through the foreign JAMB registration portals).

4. Valid Identification

• JAMB now requires candidates to have a National Identification Number (NIN) for registration. Without NIN, you cannot proceed.

Academic Requirements for JAMB UTME 2026

Academic requirements are the most critical part of UTME registration. They determine whether you are academically qualified for higher education in Nigeria.

1. O’Level Subject Requirements

To register, you must have at least five (5) credit passes in relevant subjects, including:

• English Language (compulsory)

• Mathematics (compulsory)

• Three additional subjects relevant to your chosen course (e.g., Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Government, Literature, etc.)

Important Notes:

• Credits must be obtained in not more than two sittings.

• Acceptable examination bodies include WAEC, NECO, GCE, and NABTEB.

2. Awaiting Results Candidates

• Students waiting for WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB results can still register.

• Results must be uploaded to the JAMB CAPS portal once released, otherwise admission processing will be affected.

3. Direct Entry Consideration

Although this article focuses on UTME, note that Direct Entry candidates with A’Level, OND, HND, or NCE results follow different registration guidelines.

Required Documents for JAMB Registration 2026

When registering, every UTME candidate must provide certain documents for verification and processing. Below are the must-have documents:

1. National Identification Number (NIN):

   • Mandatory for all candidates.

   • Issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).

2. Personal Email Address:

   • Used for communication, profile creation, and JAMB CAPS login.

   • Each candidate must have a unique email address.

3. Phone Number:

   • Linked to your JAMB profile.

   • Used for receiving codes and updates.

4. O’Level Results (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, GCE):

   • At least 5 credit passes, or indicate awaiting results.

5. Passport Photograph:

   • Digital passport captured at CBT center during registration.

   • No physical photo is required.

6. Biometric Fingerprint Capture:

   • Done at JAMB CBT centers.

   • Prevents impersonation and ensures identity verification.

7. Choice of Institutions and Courses:

   • Candidates must select four institutions (First, Second, Third, and Fourth choice).

8. Birth Certificate or Age Declaration:

   • Some institutions may request it during post-UTME or screening.

Step-by-Step Process of JAMB Registration for 2026 UTME

JAMB has streamlined the UTME registration process to make it transparent and fraud-free. Below is the step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Create JAMB Profile

• Send your NIN by SMS to 55019 or 66019 to create your JAMB profile.

• You will receive a Profile Code via SMS.

Step 2: Purchase JAMB e-PIN

• Buy the registration e-PIN using your profile code.

• Payments can be made through banks, online platforms, POS, or mobile wallets.

Step 3: Visit an Approved CBT Center

• Only accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centers can handle JAMB registration.

• Provide your profile code and e-PIN at the center.

Step 4: Provide Personal and Academic Information

• Enter details including name, gender, date of birth, address, choice of institution, and course of study.

• Input your O’Level subjects and grades (or indicate awaiting results).

Step 5: Biometric and Passport Capture

• The CBT center captures your fingerprints and passport photo.

• This biometric data is mandatory for exam participation.

Step 6: Print Registration Slip

• After successful registration, collect your e-slip.

• This slip contains your details, chosen institutions, and examination information.

Payment Guidelines and e-PIN Purchase

JAMB UTME registration cannot be completed without purchasing the e-PIN.

• Cost of Registration: The amount is usually announced yearly by JAMB, but expect it to include the e-PIN, CBT service charge, and optional reading text.

• Payment Methods:

  • Banks (commercial and microfinance)

  • Online platforms (Remita, Interswitch, etc.)

  • POS agents

  • Mobile money operators

• Receipt: Always request and keep your payment receipt as proof.

Choosing Institutions and Courses During Registration

Candidates must carefully select their institutions and courses during registration. JAMB allows four choices:

1. First Choice: University, polytechnic, or college of education.

2. Second Choice: University, polytechnic, or college of education.

3. Third Choice: Polytechnic or college of education.

4. Fourth Choice: Innovation Enterprise Institution or another college of education.

Tips for Choosing Institutions and Courses:

• Research the cut-off marks of each institution.

• Choose courses that align with your O’Level subjects.

• Consider location, tuition fees, and accreditation.

• Be realistic about your chances to increase admission success.

Mistakes to Avoid During JAMB Registration

Many candidates lose their admission chances due to errors made during registration. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid:

• Using the wrong email address or phone number.

• Entering incorrect O’Level subjects or grades.

• Choosing courses that do not align with O’Level results.

• Registering at unaccredited CBT centers.

• Forgetting to print the registration slip.

• Waiting until the deadline to register, leading to errors or network issues.

Summary Table of JAMB Registration Requirements for UTME 2026

FAQs: JAMB Registration Requirements for UTME 2026

1. What is the minimum age to register for JAMB UTME 2026?
Candidates must be at least 16 years old by the time of admission.

2. Is NIN compulsory for JAMB registration in 2026?
Yes, without NIN, you cannot generate a JAMB profile code or register.

3. Can I use awaiting results for JAMB registration?
Yes, but you must upload the results once released.

4. How many institutions can I choose during registration?
You can select up to four institutions, including universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

5. Can I change my course or institution after registration?
Yes, JAMB allows change of course/institution after the exam, with an additional fee.

6. Do I need a passport photo for registration?
No, the CBT center captures your passport photograph digitally.

7. How is biometric verification done?
Your fingerprints and facial data are captured at the CBT center.

8. Can foreign candidates register for JAMB UTME?
Yes, but they must use designated foreign registration centers.

9. What happens if I make a mistake during registration?
Corrections can be made later, but may attract extra charges.

10. How long is the JAMB UTME registration period?
Typically lasts for 5–6 weeks, but exact dates are always announced by JAMB.

11. Can I register at a cyber café?
No, registration is only valid at approved CBT centers.

12. What documents will I need on exam day?
You must bring your JAMB exam slip, which contains your center, time, and seat number.

Conclusion

The JAMB registration requirements for UTME candidates in 2026 are clear and straightforward, but they demand careful attention. To succeed, candidates must:

• Meet the age and academic qualifications.

• Obtain and use their NIN for profile creation.

• Prepare all necessary documents before visiting a CBT center.

• Purchase the e-PIN from approved channels.

• Register only at accredited centers and confirm all details before submission.

By following these requirements and avoiding common mistakes, UTME candidates will enjoy a smooth registration process and increase their chances of securing admission into their preferred institutions.

With adequate preparation and dedication, JAMB UTME 2026 can become the first step toward achieving your academic and career dreams.