The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced the plans in preparation for 2026’s Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Each year JAMB administers the UTME for those who wish to apply for admission to Nigerian polytechnics, universities, and colleges of education.
Candidates who are planning to sit for the JAMB 2026 exam, having clear dates for registration can be a crucial first step towards an admissions journey that is successful. Based on recent changes and official statistics, 2026 JAMB registration is anticipated to begin in the month of January in 2026 and will last approximately 6 weeks.
This article will cover the essential information you should know, starting with registration closing and opening dates to the requirements, procedures, and the most common errors to avoid.
What Is JAMB Registration?
JAMB registration is the method by which applicants officially register to take part in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) or Direct Entry (DE). This involves creating the JAMB profile, supplying personal information, deciding on the most preferred institution and course, and scheduling the examination.
Only those who register within the approved timeframe are eligible to take an exam. JAM 2026 UTME.
JAMB 2026 Registration Date (Expected Schedule)
Although the official registration date for JAMB 2026 has not yet been confirmed, it is expected to follow a similar pattern to the cycles of 2024 and 2025.
Expected Timeline
Activity | Expected Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
JAMB 2026 Registration Opens | January 15, 2026 | Upcoming |
JAMB 2026 Registration Closes | February 26, 2026 | Upcoming |
JAMB Mock Exam | March 2026 | Pending |
JAMB Main Exam | April–May 2026 | Estimated |
Key Points
- The registration period will be approximately six weeks and includes weekends.
- The exam will be held only in approved JAMB CBT centers all over the world.
- There are no extensions when the deadline is reached.
Requirements for JAMB 2026 Registration
Before going to a CBT center, ensure that you have the following items:
- The valid National Identification Number (NIN) must be provided to all candidates.
- An active email address and phone number are required to create profiles and verify.
- Personal information includes name and date of birthday, date of birth, and address.
- O’level result results from WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB (can be uploaded in the future if they are awaiting).
- The choice of schools and courses Up to four options (university, polytechnic, college of education, and innovation enterprise).
- Passport photo with a white background.
- Receipt for payment of registration cost (usually approximately N4,700).
How to Register for JAMB 2026
Take these steps to finish your JMB 2026 application successfully:
- Please ensure that you have an NIN and that it is linked to your mobile number.
- Text an SMS with your NIN, the number 55019, or 66019 to set up your JAMB profile.
- You’ll be sent an SMS with an account code by SMS.
- Buy your electronic JAMB-based PIN through a reputable bank, mobile money operators, or online platforms.
- Visit any CBT-approved center using your profile code and your e-PIN.
- Enter your personal details as well as biometrics and your passport photo.
- Select your most preferred exam location or institution, as well as the courses you want to take.
- Check your data carefully prior to making your submission.
- You can collect your electronic slip following registration. It confirms the status of your registration.
Important Warnings for Candidates
- Do not sign up with cafes that offer cybercafes. Only use certified JAMB CBT centers.
- Ensure your NIN information matches your registration details.
- Beware of multiple registrations. Avoid multiple registrations—JAMB will be able to detect and block duplicate registrations.
- Always make sure you always use a legitimate email address that you can quickly access.
- Make sure you keep all of your profile codes as well as your e-PIN secure, as you’ll require them in the future.
- Please ensure that your subject selection aligns with your chosen course.
How to Confirm Your JAMB Registration
After completing the registration process, candidates should:
- Print the JAMB registration slip to serve as proof.
- Go to www.jamb.gov.ng to confirm their profile and information.
- Watch for the JAMB announcement of the exam slip print date that includes the exam location and time, as well as the date.
Common Registration Mistakes to avoid.
- Registering using an incorrect NIN or birth date.
- Inputting an invalid address for email.
- Making incorrect subject combinations for the courses you choose.
- Don’t pay unapproved agents or sites.
- Inadvertently uploading results from O’level to the JAMB CAPS.
FAQs on JAMB 2026 Registration Date
Q1: When will JAMB 2026 registration start?
A: It is expected to begin around January 15, 2026.
Q2: How long will registration last?
A: About six weeks, likely ending by February 26, 2026.
Q3: Can I register for JAMB without NIN?
A: No, a valid NIN is compulsory for JAMB registration.
Q4: How much is the JAMB 2026 form?
A: The total cost is expected to remain around ₦4,700.
Q5: Where can I register for JAMB 2026?
A: Only at approved JAMB CBT centres across Nigeria.
Q6: Can I change my course or institution later?
A: Yes, JAMB allows change of course or institution after the exam.
Q7: Will there be a mock exam for 2026?
A: Yes, the mock exam is expected to hold in March 2026.
Q8: Can Direct Entry (DE) candidates register at the same time?
A: Yes, both UTME and DE registration will open simultaneously.
Q9: Will the registration date be extended?
A: JAMB rarely extends deadlines — register early to avoid issues.
Q10: How do I know if my registration is successful?
A: You’ll receive a confirmation slip and can verify it on the JAMB portal.
Conclusion
This registration for JAMB 2026 is expected to begin at the beginning of the month of January and end by February 2026. Candidates are urged to obtain their NIN in order, create required documents, and enroll only at approved CBT centers. Timely preparation and the correct information are essential for avoiding the possibility of disqualification or technical problems.
Keep up-to-date by checking universities.ng for confirmed JAMB deadlines for registration schedules for the exam, as well as announcements about admissions for 2026.
