The JAMB Direct Entry (DE) 2026 registration provides an alternative pathway to university admission for Nigerians who already hold qualifications such as the Ordinary National Diploma (OND), Higher National Diploma (HND), National Certificate of Education (NCE), A-Level certificates, or relevant professional qualifications. Unlike the UTME, Direct Entry allows eligible candidates to gain admission directly into the 200 level (second year) or even 300 level (third year) of undergraduate programmes. This guide covers everything you need to know about JAMB DE 2026 — eligibility, requirements, registration steps, and universities that accept Direct Entry candidates.
What Is JAMB Direct Entry?
JAMB Direct Entry (DE) is an alternative admission pathway that allows candidates with higher educational qualifications to bypass the first year (100 level) of a university programme and gain direct admission into 200 level or above. It is regulated by JAMB and managed through the same CAPS (Central Admission Processing System) used for UTME admissions.
Direct Entry is ideal for:
- OND graduates who want to transfer to a university programme
- HND holders seeking a second degree or integrated master’s programme
- NCE graduates who want a B.Ed. or related degree
- Candidates with A-Level (IJMB, JUPEB, or GCE Advanced Level) certificates
- Holders of professional qualifications (e.g., ICAN, ACCA, CIMA) for relevant programmes
JAMB Direct Entry 2026: Key Dates
JAMB officially announced that the 2026 Direct Entry registration began on March 2, 2026 and runs through April 25, 2026 at JAMB offices across Nigeria. This overlaps with the UTME exam period, so candidates need to act quickly to avoid missing the deadline.
- DE Registration Start: March 2, 2026
- DE Registration Deadline: April 25, 2026
- Registration Location: JAMB offices nationwide
Who Is Eligible for JAMB Direct Entry 2026?
To be eligible for JAMB Direct Entry in 2026, you must have at least ONE of the following qualifications (in addition to your O-Level results):
1. A-Level Qualifications
- IJMB (Interim Joint Matriculation Board): Minimum of 3 passes at A-Level
- JUPEB (Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board): Minimum of 3 subjects passed at A-Level
- GCE Advanced Level (Cambridge/WAEC): Minimum of 2 principal passes
- Cambridge International A Levels: 2 relevant subjects at E or above
2. Tertiary Qualifications
- Ordinary National Diploma (OND): Upper Credit and above, in a relevant discipline
- Higher National Diploma (HND): Minimum of Lower Credit
- National Certificate of Education (NCE): Merit or Distinction (for Education-related degree programmes)
- First Degree: A first degree from a recognized institution (for admission into a different discipline)
3. Professional Qualifications
Candidates holding recognized professional qualifications (e.g., ICAN, CIMA, ACCA, CIPM, etc.) may be eligible for Direct Entry into related degree programmes. Eligibility is determined by the receiving institution.
O-Level Requirements for JAMB Direct Entry
In addition to your higher qualification, you must also meet the O-Level requirements for your chosen course:
- Minimum of 5 O-Level credit passes in relevant subjects
- Credits must include English Language and Mathematics (required for most courses)
- Credits can be in one or two sittings of WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB
For more on O-Level requirements, see our guide on O-Level subject requirements for most university courses.
How to Register for JAMB Direct Entry 2026
Follow these steps to complete your JAMB DE 2026 registration:
Step 1: Obtain a DE ePIN
Purchase a JAMB Direct Entry ePIN from designated banks or through the JAMB eFacility portal. The DE registration fee is different from the UTME registration fee. Check the JAMB website for the exact 2026 DE fee.
Step 2: Generate Your JAMB Profile Code
If you don’t already have one, generate your JAMB profile code by texting your NIN to 55019. This is required for all JAMB registrations. See our guide on how to generate your JAMB profile code for step-by-step instructions.
Step 3: Visit a JAMB Office
Unlike the UTME (which can be registered at accredited CBT centres), Direct Entry registration must be done at an official JAMB office. Visit the JAMB zonal or state office near you with:
- Your JAMB DE ePIN
- Your NIN and profile code
- Original and photocopies of your qualifying certificate (OND, A-Level, NCE, etc.)
- Original and photocopies of your O-Level result
- Passport photographs
Step 4: Complete Your Registration
At the JAMB office, you will select your:
- First and second choice institutions
- First and second choice courses
- Entry level (200 or 300 level, depending on your qualification)
Which Level Does Direct Entry Enter?
The level at which a Direct Entry candidate is admitted depends on their qualification:
- A-Level (IJMB, JUPEB, GCE A-Level): 200 level
- OND (relevant discipline): 200 level
- NCE (Education programmes): 300 level (for B.Ed.) at many universities
- HND: 200 level (for a new degree programme in a related field)
Universities That Accept Direct Entry in Nigeria
Most federal and state universities in Nigeria accept Direct Entry candidates. Key institutions include:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
Always confirm with the specific university whether they accept your DE qualification for your chosen course and at which entry level.
Advantages of JAMB Direct Entry Over UTME
- You skip the UTME exam — no need to write 180 questions under timed conditions
- You enter at 200 level or above, saving 1–2 years compared to regular UTME students
- Your existing qualifications give you a stronger foundation for success in your chosen degree
- Less competition — fewer candidates apply through DE than through the UTME
To learn more about the full JAMB registration process (both UTME and DE), see our comprehensive JAMB 2026 UTME/DE registration guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About JAMB Direct Entry 2026
Q1: When is the deadline for JAMB Direct Entry 2026?
The JAMB Direct Entry 2026 registration closes on April 25, 2026. Registration opened on March 2, 2026 and is done in person at JAMB zonal/state offices nationwide.
Q2: Can I do both UTME and Direct Entry in the same year?
No. You cannot register for both the UTME and Direct Entry in the same year. You must choose one pathway. If you register for UTME and also have DE qualifications, you should choose the route that best suits your situation and the requirements of your desired university and course.
Q3: Is there a cut-off mark for JAMB Direct Entry?
Direct Entry candidates do not sit the UTME, so there is no UTME score or cut-off mark. Instead, admission eligibility is based on your qualifying certificate grade (e.g., OND grade, A-Level grades) and whether your O-Level results meet the course requirements. Each university then evaluates DE candidates separately.
Q4: What is the difference between IJMB and JUPEB for Direct Entry?
Both IJMB and JUPEB are A-Level equivalent programmes that qualify candidates for Direct Entry into 200 level. IJMB is older and more widely accepted, while JUPEB is a newer programme established by universities. Both are recognized by JAMB for DE registration. The key difference is the issuing body and the specific universities that most readily accept each certificate.
Q5: Can I use HND for Direct Entry into a different course?
Generally, HND qualifications are for DE into a related course. For example, an HND in Accounting can be used for DE into BSc Accounting. Using it for an entirely different discipline may not be accepted by most universities. Always confirm with your intended institution.
Start Your JAMB Direct Entry Journey Before the April 25 Deadline
The JAMB Direct Entry 2026 registration window closes on April 25, 2026. If you hold an OND, A-Level, NCE, HND, or other qualifying certificate, do not miss this opportunity to gain direct admission into 200 level at a Nigerian university — saving you time, money, and the stress of the UTME.
Visit your nearest JAMB office now with your qualifying documents and complete your DE registration before the deadline. For more information on JAMB 2026 and the admission process, explore our guides on JAMB registration help guide, JAMB cut-off marks 2026, and Post-UTME 2026 guide.
Stay ahead in the 2026/2027 university admission process — bookmark universities.ng for daily updates on JAMB, admissions, and Nigerian higher education.
