Many candidates lose admission every year, not because of low scores, but due to avoidable JAMB registration mistakes. A single error during JAMB registration can block admission on CAPS, even if you perform well in UTME.
This guide highlights the most common JAMB registration mistakes to avoid in 2026 and how to stay safe.
1. Using the Wrong JAMB Subject Combination
This is the most dangerous mistake.
If your UTME subjects do not match your chosen course:
- JAMB CAPS will reject your admission
- Universities will disqualify you
- High UTME scores will not help
Always confirm the approved subject combination for your course before registering.
2. Choosing the Wrong Course or Institution
Many candidates choose courses:
- They are not qualified for
- With very high competition
- Not offered by the institution
This leads to automatic disqualification during screening. Always check course availability and cut-off marks.
3. Ignoring O-Level Requirements
Some courses require:
- Specific subjects
- One sitting only
- Credit passes, not just passes
Registering without meeting these requirements will block admission, even if UTME is passed.
4. Delaying O-Level Result Upload
Candidates who register with awaiting result often forget to upload results later.
If your O-Level result is not uploaded:
- JAMB will not approve admission
- CAPS will remain incomplete
- You may lose the entire admission year
Upload your result immediately it is released.
5. Registering at Unapproved Centres
Registering through:
- Cyber cafés
- Roadside agents
- Unapproved centres
can lead to data errors, wrong subjects, or invalid registration.
Always register at JAMB-accredited CBT centres only.
6. Not Checking Registration Details Before Leaving the Centre
Many errors happen because candidates:
- Do not review their details
- Rush out of the CBT centre
- Ignore spelling errors
Always confirm:
- Name spelling
- Date of birth
- Subjects
- Course and institution
- O-Level status
Corrections later may cost money or be impossible.
7. Using a Phone Number Not Linked to NIN
Your JAMB profile must be created using the phone number linked to your NIN.
Using a different number can cause:
- Profile creation failure
- Verification issues
- CAPS problems later
Always confirm your NIN-linked number.
8. Waiting Too Long to Do Change of Course or Institution
If you notice a mistake:
- Wrong course
- Wrong subject combination
- Wrong institution
Do not wait. Late changes reduce admission chances and may miss Post-UTME deadlines.
9. Assuming Change of Course Will Always Fix Everything
Change of course helps, but:
- It costs money
- Some schools close portals early
- Late changes may not reflect for screening
It is better to register correctly from the start.
10. Ignoring JAMB CAPS After Registration
Many candidates never check JAMB CAPS.
This leads to:
- Missed admission offers
- Failure to accept admission
- Lost admission opportunities
You must monitor CAPS regularly during admission season.
11. Using Wrong Personal Details
Mistakes in:
- Name arrangement
- Gender
- State of origin
- Local government
can cause screening and documentation issues later.
Always cross-check personal details carefully.
12. Believing False Information or Rumours
Many candidates rely on:
- Friends
- Social media rumours
- Unverified agents
This often leads to wrong decisions. Always rely on official and trusted admission guides.
Important Tips to Avoid JAMB Registration Mistakes
- Register early
- Use accredited CBT centres
- Confirm subject combination and course requirements
- Upload O-Level results on time
- Monitor CAPS regularly
- Keep all slips and documents safe
Frequently Asked Questions
Can mistakes in JAMB registration be corrected?
Some can be corrected through change of course or data correction, but not all.
Does high UTME score cancel registration mistakes?
No. JAMB CAPS follows requirements strictly.
Is it safe to use awaiting result?
Yes, but only if results are uploaded early.
Can spelling errors affect admission?
Yes, especially during clearance and screening.
Conclusion
Avoiding JAMB registration mistakes in 2026 can save you from losing admission unnecessarily. Register carefully, confirm all requirements, and act early when issues are noticed. Most admission problems start from simple registration errors.
For trusted guides on JAMB Registration 2026, admission fixes, and CAPS tips, keep following universities.ng.
