2026 UTME: JAMB Releases Registration, Exam Dates and Key Guidelines




Joint Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially
commenced registration for the 2026 Unified
Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), marking the beginning of the admission process into Nigeria’s universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and other tertiary institutions for the 2026/2027 academic session.

According to JAMB, the registration exercise began on Monday, January 26, 2026, and is scheduled to close on Saturday, February 28, 2026. Sales of e-PINs commenced earlier on January 19 and will end on February 26, giving candidates ample time to complete the process.

Direct Entry and Examination Schedule

Candidates seeking admission through Direct Entry (DE) will begin registration on March 2, 2026, with the exercise running until April 25, 2026. Unlike UTME candidates, Direct Entry applicants are required to register strictly at JAMB state or zonal offices, not at CBT centres.

The Board has also announced that the optional Mock UTME will take place on March 28, 2026, while the main UTME examination is scheduled to run from April 16 to April 25, 2026, across accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres nationwide.

Eligibility Requirements

possession of a valid National Identification Number (NIN) remains mandatory for all candidates. Prospective candidates are required to generate a JAMB profile code by sending their NIN via SMS to 55019 or 66019 before proceeding with registration.

In line with existing policy, candidates are expected to be at least 16 years old by September 30, 2026. However, underage candidates who demonstrate exceptional academic ability may still be considered under strict assessment conditions.

Registration Fees

The cost of registration varies depending on candidates’ preferences. The UTME registration fee is approximately ₦7,200, while candidates opting to sit for the mock examination will pay about ₦8,700. Direct Entry registration costs around ₦5,700. These fees cover the e-PIN, CBT service charges, reading text, and other administrative costs.

Registration Process

Registration must be completed at JAMB-accredited CBT centres only. Candidates are required to present their profile code and e-PIN, undergo biometric capture, select their institutions and courses, choose examination towns, and upload their O’Level results or indicate “awaiting result” where applicable. Upon completion, candidates are advised to print and safely keep their registration slips.

Warnings and Advisory

JAMB has issued stern warnings against patronising unapproved centres and agents, stressing that self-registration is not permitted. Candidates are also advised to ensure that their personal information, particularly names and dates of birth, aligns with their NIN records, as discrepancies may affect their admission chances.

Next Steps for Candidates

Following registration, candidates are expected to reprint their examination slips when notified by JAMB and begin preparations for both the mock and main UTME examinations. Results will be released shortly after the conclusion of the examination period.

With the commencement of Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially commenced registration for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), marking the beginning of the admission process into Nigeria’s universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and other tertiary institutions for the 2026/2027 academic session.


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