The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has begun releasing information in the early stages of its 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE). For the millions of Nigerian students who are preparing to be admitted into polytechnics, universities, and colleges of higher education, keeping up-to-date with the latest JAMB announcements for 2026 is crucial.
This guide offers a comprehensive outline of the latest updates, anticipated registration dates and exam dates, as well as the result release dates, and other important advice for all students in the 2026 UTME or DE candidates.
Overview of JAMB 2026
The JAMB UTME 2026 will be the national entrance test for this 2026/2027 academic year. It will be administered throughout the country and across all recognised CBT centres.
JAMB has confirmed that it is confirmed by JAMB that Direct Entry (DE) registration will be valid in conjunction with the JAMB registration.
The key highlights of 2026 are:
- Compulsory use of National Identification Number (NIN).
- CBT (CBT) remains the sole exam format.
- Mock test to assist candidates in getting ready for the exam ahead of time.
- Rules that are strict on the verification of biometrics and the prevention of exam malpractice.
Latest JAMB 2026 Updates
1.JAMB 2026 Registration Date
The registration for JAMB 2026 is scheduled to begin on Friday, January 31st, 2026, and will continue until March 8th, 2026.
Candidates can only register at accredited JAMB CBT centres. During registration, you’ll:
- Create the profile code with your NIN.
- Buy your JAMB ePIN at authorised payment outlets.
- Complete registration at a CBT centre that includes biometrics as well as passport capturing.
2.JAMB 2026 Exam Date
The principal UTME exam is scheduled to run from April 25 until mid-May 2026.
An optional mock test is likely to take place sometime in April 2026 in order to ensure that candidates are tested on their preparation for the real test.
3.JAMB 2026 Registration Fee
The cost of the JAMB 2026 form remains affordable to ensure nationwide access:
Item | Fee (₦) | Description |
JAMB Form | ₦3,500 | Registration fee |
CBT Service Charge | ₦700 | Paid at the centre |
Optional Mock Exam | ₦1,000 | Paid at CBT centre |
Total | ₦4,700 (without mock) | ₦5,700 (with mock) |
Payment can be made through banks, POS agents, online platforms, or JAMB offices.
4.JAMB 2026 Profile Code
To create the profile code Send your SMS message to or from 55019 or 66019 using this format:
NIN [Your 11-digit NIN]
Example: NIN 12345678901
You’ll be sent a 10-digit profile code by SMS. Be sure to keep it safe – it’s required to register and for the future JAMB activities.
5.JAMB 2026 Reading Novel
To ensure the use for the Use of English exam, JAMB is expected to maintain the novel The Changer by Khadijat Abubakar Jalli as the official reading novel. Changer of Khadijat Abubakar Jalli as the reading novel of choice.
Each participant will be provided with one free novel at the time of registration. 10 marks on the exam The use of the English exam will be derived from the novel.
6.JAMB 2026 Cut-Off Marks (Expected)
The minimum thresholds to be admitted are anticipated to be the same in 2025.
- Universities: 150
- Polytechnics: 100
- Colleges of Education: 100
- Colleges of Nursing: 140
But each school is able to determine higher standards for cut-offs according to the competition of the course.
7.JAMB 2026 Result Release Date
The results of the JAMB 2026 UTME are anticipated to be released within 48-72 hours following the exam’s last day — most likely sometime between May 5 and May 7, 2026.
You can verify your results:
- By SMS Text UTMERESULT 51919 and the number 66019 (N50 cost).
- On the Internet: Visit www.jamb.gov.ng and click “Check UTME Result”.
8.JAMB CAPS and Admission Process
When the results are published After the results are released, the Central Admission Processing System (CAPS) will be used to process admission offers.
On JAMB CAPS the candidates will be able to:
- Accept or decline admissions invitations.
- Check their admissions progression.
- Upload O-level results to verify.
Only those who accept admission to CAPS are officially accepted.
9.Important Warnings from JAMB
- Avoid registration centres that are fake.. Make sure you use CBT centres accredited by JAMB.
- Do not give your Profile Code or ePIN to anyone.
- NIN is required, and no applicant is able to register without it.
- Please do not sign up two times — multiple profiles could result in being disqualified.
- Upload your O-level results before admission.
10.JAMB 2026 Mock Exam
The test is not required but strongly advised. It will help you:
- Know how to use the JAMB CBT program.
- Learn to manage your time.
- Lower stress on the day of the exam.
To be a part of the program, state your interest in the registration process and make a payment of N1,000 at the CBT centre you have chosen.
Key JAMB 2026 Dates (Summary Table)
Activity | Expected Date | Status |
Registration Opens | Friday, January 31st, 2026 | Upcoming |
Registration Closes | March 8th, 2026 | Upcoming |
Mock Exam | March 2026 | Pending |
Main UTME | April 25 – May 2026 | Scheduled |
Result Release | May 5–7, 2026 | Expected |
FAQs on JAMB News 2026
Q1: Is the JAMB 2026 form out?
A: Not yet. It is expected to be available from Friday, January 31st, 2026.
Q2: Can I register for JAMB without NIN?
A: No. The National Identification Number (NIN) is compulsory.
Q3: When will JAMB 2026 exams start?
A: The exams are expected to begin April 25, 2026.
Q4: How much is the JAMB form for 2026?
A: The total cost is ₦4,700, or ₦5,700 if you include the mock exam.
Q5: How can I check my JAMB result?
A: By sending UTMERESULT to 55019/66019 or through the JAMB website.
Q6: What is the cut-off mark for 2026?
A: 150 for universities, 100 for polytechnics/colleges, and 140 for nursing colleges.
Q7: Will there be a JAMB mock exam in 2026?
A: Yes, it is scheduled for March 2026.
Conclusion
The 2026 UTME of JAMB will begin the registration process in the beginning of January 2026, and the main test is scheduled for April 2026 to May 2026. Candidates are urged to register their NIN and prepare using CBT-based practice applications and adhere to only the official JAMB notices to prevent confusion.
Stay on top of universities.ng for continuous information on the JAMB 2026 registration process, examination dates, exam outcomes, and exam dates, as well as admission information for the 2026/2027 academic session.
