JAMB announces 2026 UTME registration details, dates, charges, and guidelines to help every candidate prepare, register error‑free, and meet official requirements.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has finalized plans for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration exercise and released detailed guidelines to ensure a smooth process for all candidates.
With mechanisms now firmly in place, the Board is urging prospective applicants to understand the full scope of requirements, timelines, fees, and official procedures before beginning their registration.
At the heart of this process is ensuring that every candidate has access to a fair, transparent, and efficient UTME registration experience.
JAMB indicated that all accredited Computer‑Based Test (CBT) centres, Professional Registration Centres, and Board offices across the country are ready to accept applications once the registration window opens.
Preparing For Registration: Personal Data and NIMC Compliance
One of the issues that often hinders successful UTME registration is inaccurate personal information, especially differences between names or dates of birth on official documents.
To address this, JAMB’s Registrar, Prof. Is‑haq Oloyede, strongly advised that candidates resolve any biodata discrepancies with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) before attempting to register.
Prof. Oloyede explained that JAMB will not correct personal data or use any information that does not match NIMC’s records.
The Board clarified this rule to eliminate confusion and prevent errors that could ultimately affect candidates’ eligibility or performance.
This step reinforces a larger effort to integrate national identity data with educational exams and examinations authorities, ensuring accuracy and security for every applicant.
Official Registration Timeline and Important Dates
- JAMB has announced clear UTME registration timelines to guide candidates in planning their application. According to the Board:
- UTME Registration Period: From Monday, 26th January 2026 to Saturday, 28th February 2026
- e‑PIN Vending for UTME: Began Monday, 19th January 2026 and ends Thursday, 26th February 2026
These dates are significant because candidates must purchase an e‑PIN before registering for the exam, and all registration activity must conclude before the closing date.
Candidates are encouraged not to delay registration, as last‑minute attempts may encounter technical challenges or longer wait times at busy CBT centres.
Direct Entry Applicants: Separate Timeline
For students applying through Direct Entry (DE), there is a different schedule. The Board noted:
Direct Entry Sales and e‑PIN Vending: Monday, 2nd March 2026 to Saturday, 25th April 2026
Unlike UTME registration, Direct Entry applications will only be sold at JAMB Zonal and State Offices.
Candidates in this category should plan carefully and avoid delays, as the timeline is shorter and exclusive to physical Board offices.
Available e‑PIN Categories and Fee Breakdown
The introduction of multiple e‑PIN categories for the 2026 exercise gives candidates options based on their needs. JAMB announced three main categories:
1. Direct Entry (DE) e‑PIN: ₦5,700
2. UTME Only Without Mock: ₦7,200
3. UTME With Mock: ₦8,700
This tiered system allows candidates to choose whether they want to participate in the optional mock exam — which can be helpful for preparation — or proceed only with the main UTME.
In addition to the core application fee, JAMB provided a clear breakdown of how the total charges are allocated:
UTME/DE Application Fee: ₦3,500
Reading Text: ₦1,000
CBT Centre Registration Service Charge: ₦700
CBT Centre UTME Service Charge: ₦1,500
Bank Charges: ₦500
CBT Mock UTME Centre Charge: ₦1,500
This transparency helps candidates and their families plan financially, ensuring there are no surprises when they visit a CBT centre to register.
Examination Dates and Mock UTME
Understanding the exam schedule is crucial to proper preparation. JAMB has confirmed the official timetable for the upcoming UTME:
Main UTME: Thursday, 16th April 2026 to Saturday, 25th April 2026
Mock UTME (Optional): Saturday, 28th March 2026
The mock exam gives candidates an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the structure and format of computer‑based testing, potentially improving confidence and performance during the actual examination period.
What Candidates Must Do Now
To have a seamless registration experience, candidates should:
1. Verify Biodata with NIMC: Ensure names and dates of birth are correct and match records.
2. Buy the Appropriate e‑PIN: Decide whether participation in the mock exam is desired.
3. Choose Accredited Centres: Only register at JAMB‑accredited CBT locations.
4. Observe Deadlines: Avoid waiting until the final days to register.
JAMB’s updated guidelines are designed to make this process more accessible and less stressful for every student, regardless of background or location.
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