The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued updates prior to 2026’s Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). A frequently asked question that applicants ask is, “How much is the JAMB registration fee for 2026?”
If you’re planning on writing the JAMB exam in 2026, knowing the fee for registration and payment procedure and what it covers will ensure that you don’t get charged too much or get scammed. This guide will explain how to pay the officially approved JAMB 2026 registration cost as well as the method of paying and what you’ll get following payment.
What Is the JAMB Registration Fee?
The JAMB fee for registration is the sum that a person pays to complete the formal registration process in order to sit for taking the UTM as well as the Direct Entry (DE) exam.
It includes the following:
- Registering on the JAMB portal
- You can access the official JAMB reading novel.
- computer-based test (CBT) service charge
- The printing of the electronic registration slip
How Much Is the JAMB Registration Fee for 2026?
According to recent updates and expected trends, the JAMB 2026 registration fee will remain the same as in 2024 and 2025.
Item | Fee (₦) | Description |
JAMB Registration | ₦3,500 | Official JAMB form cost |
Reading Text/Novel | Free | Included in registration |
CBT Service Charge | ₦700 | Payment for CBT registration service |
Mock Exam (Optional) | ₦1,000 | Paid separately at CBT centre |
Total (Without Mock Exam) | ₦4,200 – ₦4,700 | Depending on payment platform |
So, the total JAMB 2026 registration fee is expected to be ₦4,700 for candidates not taking the mock exam and ₦5,700 for those who choose to participate in the mock test.
How to Pay for JAMB 2026 Registration
You can pay for your fees for JAMB registration using a variety of convenient methods. After you have generated the profile code, choose one of the below payment options:
1.At Approved Banks
Directly to any one of the JAMB-accredited banks listed below:
- Zenith Bank
- First Bank
- GTBank
- UBA
- Access Bank
- Jaiz Bank
- Union Bank
You must provide the profile code (sent by an SMS) at the counter of your bank to create your electronic PIN after you have made your payment.
2.Online Payment Platforms
You can pay using secure digital channels such as
- Remita
- Quickteller
- Flutterwave
- Interswitch
You can enter the profile code through the online payment system, then complete the transaction, and then receive your electronic PIN immediately by text message or by email.
3.Mobile Money Operators (POS)
Go to any authorized ATM or mobile agent with the JAMB logo.
You must provide your profile code and make a payment and then get your electronic PIN displayed on your receipt.
4.USSD Payment Option
Pay with your phone.
Call 5656*55019# or 5656*66019#. Follow the instructions on screen, and pay securely.
What You Get After Payment
If you’ve successfully completed the JAMB fee for registration, After completing the registration process, you’ll be able to receive:
- A unique electronic PIN (sent by your registered number)
- Access to enroll at any accredited CBT center
- A free copy of the official JAMB novels for reading (The Life Changer or a new title if it is replaced)
- A registration form that contains your information as well as your exam preferences
Important Notes on JAMB 2026 Fee
- The N4,700 price represents the national cost; CBT centers are not permitted to charge additional fees.
- The payment for mock exams is optional and must be made exclusively at the CBT center.
- Make sure you keep your receipt for payment and your e-PIN secure—they are proof of your payment.
- Pay not through unregistered representatives or through cybercafes. Always use official channels that are listed at www.jamb.gov.ng.
Step-by-Step Summary of the Payment Process
- Make sure to have your NIN set.
- Send an SMS containing your number and the number 55019 or 66019 to obtain the profile code.
- Select the preferred payment option (bank or POS and online).
- Pay N4,700 with your profile code.
- You will receive your E-PIN by SMS.
- Visit a CBT center that is approved to register.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Payment to people or centers that are not approved by the government.
- Use a different number instead of the one associated with your profile code.
- You may lose your E-PIN before registering.
- Payments must be made prior to the creation of the profile code.
Why JAMB Keeps the Fee Affordable
JAMB has maintained a fair cost for registration to ensure the same access to education. The transparency of the agency ensures that all applicants pay the same cost and avoids the exploitation of third-party agents.
In the past, JAMB reduced the registration fee from N5,000 to just N3,500, which reflects their commitment to accessibility as well as fairness.
FAQs on JAMB 2026 Registration Fee
Q1: How much is the JAMB registration fee for 2026?
A: ₦4,700 for the main registration; ₦5,700 if you include the mock exam.
Q2: Is the reading novel free?
A: Yes, it’s given free after successful registration.
Q3: Can I pay my JAMB fee online?
A: Yes, through Remita, Quickteller, or Interswitch.
Q4: Can cybercafés collect JAMB payment?
A: No, only approved banks, POS agents, and online platforms.
Q5: Will JAMB increase the fee in 2026?
A: Unlikely — JAMB has maintained the same amount for several years.
Q6: Do Direct Entry candidates pay the same fee?
A: Yes, both UTME and DE candidates pay the same ₦4,700 fee.
Q7: Is the mock exam fee refundable?
A: No, once paid, it is non-refundable.
Q8: Do I pay separately for JAMB result checking?
A: No, checking your result via SMS costs only ₦50.
Conclusion
The cost of registering for the JAMB exam in 2026 is N4,700, which covers your application along with reading a novel and the CBT application. Candidates who choose to take the mock exam must be charged an additional 1,000 N at the CBT center.
To avoid getting defrauded, make sure you pay only via authorized JAMB payment methods and register at an authentic CBT center. Make sure to keep all of your profile codes and payment receipts, as well as your e-PIN, secured, as they are vital to complete your registration for the 2026 UTME.
Stay in touch with universities.ng for verified information regarding the JAMB 2026 registration and exam dates and admissions information.
