As preparations for the 2026/2027 admission exercise continue, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released official guidelines for prospective candidates. Although full registration has not yet commenced, early preparation is strongly advised to avoid costly errors.
In this guide, you’ll find who is eligible to apply, the approved fees, key registration dates, and the correct steps to follow during the process.
Who Can Apply for JAMB 2026?
Age Requirement
Generally, candidates must be 16 years old or above by 30 September 2026 to qualify.
However, candidates below this age are not completely excluded. Instead, they must pass a special evaluation process. In addition, such candidates are required to score at least 80% in UTME/A-Level, PUTME, SSCE, and the exceptional candidate assessment. Only after this review will JAMB release their results.
Biodata Rules Linked to NIMC
For the 2026 admission exercise, JAMB relies strictly on biodata supplied by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). Once a candidate completes registration, no further biodata changes will be allowed.
That said, if NIMC updates your details later, you must follow JAMB’s official re-query process for the correction to reflect. Any adjusted data may appear as a footnote on your profile.
JAMB 2026 Fees and e-PIN Options
To ensure transparency, JAMB will again operate a fully cashless registration system, with payments handled only through approved channels.
5 Services You Might Like:
Available e-PIN Categories
- Direct Entry (DE): ₦5,700
- UTME without Mock: ₦7,200
- UTME with Mock: ₦8,700
Breakdown of Charges
The total cost covers:
- Application fee: ₦3,500
- Reading text: ₦1,000
- CBT registration charge: ₦700
- UTME service charge: ₦1,500
- Bank charge: ₦500
- Mock exam (optional): ₦1,500
Before purchasing, candidates should carefully select the correct e-PIN type. Once paid, the fee is non-refundable.
Important Registration Dates to Remember
UTME Registration Timeline
- Registration period: 26 January – 28 February 2026
- e-PIN sales: 19 January – 26 February 2026
Direct Entry (DE) Registration
- Sales and submission: 2 March – 25 April 2026
- Notably, DE submissions are accepted only at JAMB State and Zonal Offices.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
For UTME Candidates
To qualify, candidates must have:
- At least five O’Level credits, including English.
- Results obtained in no more than two sittings.
- Mathematics is compulsory for science, technology, and social science courses.
For Direct Entry Candidates
In addition to O’Level credits, applicants must possess approved qualifications such as ND, NCE, HND, IJMB, JUPEB, or A-Level certificates.
Furthermore, DE candidates must upload all relevant qualifications during registration. Candidates awaiting results are not permitted to register for Direct Entry.
Key Rules Candidates Often Miss
To avoid disqualification, candidates should note the following:
- Multiple registrations are not allowed.
- Registration must be done only at JAMB-approved CBT centres.
- Profile codes and passwords should never be shared.
- Any previous admission must be declared honestly, as false information can invalidate registration.
Step-by-Step Guide to JAMB 2026 Registration
Step 1: Generate Your Profile Code
First, use a personal phone number that you will keep active.
Next, send your NIN to 55019 or 66019 in this format:
NIN 00123456789
Shortly after, you will receive your Profile Code via SMS.
Step 2: Purchase the e-PIN
After receiving your Profile Code, visit any approved bank or vendor. Once payment is completed, the e-PIN will be sent directly to your phone.
Step 3: Complete Registration at a CBT Centre
At the CBT centre:
- Your photograph and all ten fingerprints will be captured.
- You will select your course, institution, subject combination, and exam town.
- Carefully review all details before final submission.
- Finally, print your registration slip using fingerprint verification.
JAMB 2026 Examination Dates
- Mock UTME (optional): 28 March 2026
- Main UTME: 16 April – 25 April 2026
Candidates With Disabilities or Biometric Challenges
Candidates who require support can indicate their needs during registration. Where necessary, JAMB may direct such candidates to register and sit for the examination at designated centres or offices.
Final Advice for Candidates
Before registration opens:
- Confirm that your NIN details are correct.
- Decide on your preferred course and institution early.
- Verify your subject combination using the JAMB Brochure.
- Use a personal phone number and email address you can always access.
Ultimately, early preparation reduces stress and improves your chances of a smooth and successful admission process.
Credit: Allschool, Allcbt
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