JAMB 2026: Full Registration Guide, Exam Date, Requirements & Latest Updates for UTME Candidates

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially become the most important gateway for admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and other tertiary institutions. As the 2026 UTME approaches, thousands of candidates are already searching for accurate and up-to-date information on JAMB 2026 registration, exam dates, requirements, and key updates.

This comprehensive guide breaks everything down clearly, whether you are a first-time candidate or returning applicant.

What Is JAMB and Why the 2026 UTME Matters

JAMB conducts the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) examinations annually to determine candidates’ eligibility for admission into higher institutions in Nigeria.

The JAMB 2026 UTME will:

• Serve as the primary admission screening exam

• Determine eligibility for post-UTME screenings

• Influence admission chances across institutions

Early preparation and correct registration are critical.

JAMB 2026 Registration Start Date (Expected)

Although JAMB has not officially announced the exact registration date, based on previous years, JAMB 2026 registration is expected to begin between January and February 2026.

Candidates are advised to:

• Monitor official JAMB announcements

• Begin preparation early

• Avoid last-minute registration to prevent errors

Who Is Eligible for JAMB 2026?

To register for JAMB 2026, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Minimum age of 16 years by the time of admission

• Possession of O’Level results or awaiting result

• Willingness to gain admission into a Nigerian tertiary institution

Accepted O’Level Results

• WAEC

• NECO

• NABTEB

Candidates can combine results where permitted by their chosen institution.

JAMB 2026 Registration Requirements

Before heading to any CBT centre, ensure you have the following:

1. National Identification Number (NIN)

2. Valid phone number and email address

3. O’Level result(s) or awaiting result status

4. Recent passport photograph

5. Registration fee payment

6. Personal details (date of birth, state, LGA, etc.)

👉 Note: Registration can only be completed at JAMB-accredited CBT centres.

Step-by-Step JAMB 2026 Registration Process

Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Obtain Your NIN

Visit any NIMC enrollment centre to register or retrieve your NIN.

Step 2: Create JAMB Profile

Send your NIN via SMS to 55019 or 66019 using your personal phone number to receive a profile code.

Step 3: Purchase JAMB ePIN

Buy your JAMB ePIN through approved channels such as banks or authorized vendors.

Step 4: Visit an Accredited CBT Centre

Proceed to a JAMB-accredited CBT centre to complete biometric capture and registration.

Step 5: Print Your Registration Slip

Ensure all details are correct before leaving the centre.

JAMB 2026 UTME Exam Date (Expected)

The JAMB 2026 UTME exam is expected to take place between March and April 2026, depending on JAMB’s official timetable.

Candidates will be informed of:

• Exam date

• Time

• CBT centre location

This information will be displayed on the JAMB examination slip.

JAMB 2026 Subjects Combination

Candidates must select:

• English Language (compulsory)

• Three other subjects related to their chosen course

Choosing the wrong subject combination can lead to automatic disqualification, so candidates must confirm institutional requirements.

JAMB 2026 Exam Format

• Computer-Based Test (CBT)

• 180 questions total

• Duration: 2 hours

• Maximum score: 400

The exam tests:

• Speed

• Accuracy

• Understanding of syllabus topics

Latest JAMB 2026 Updates You Should Know

Here are key updates candidates should watch out for:

• Strict use of NIN for all registrations

• Biometric verification at CBT centres

• Crackdown on exam malpractice

• Improved CBT exam security

• Integration of admission CAPS monitoring

JAMB continues to emphasize fairness, transparency, and merit-based admissions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During JAMB 2026 Registration

• Using another person’s phone number

• Choosing the wrong institution or course

• Selecting incorrect subject combinations

• Registering at unapproved CBT centres

• Waiting until the deadline

Avoiding these mistakes can save you from serious admission problems.

What Happens After JAMB 2026 UTME?

After the exam:

• Check your UTME result

• Participate in Post-UTME screening

• Monitor admission status on JAMB CAPS

• Accept or reject admission when offered

Final Thoughts on JAMB 2026

The JAMB 2026 UTME is a major step toward securing admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions. With the right information, early preparation, and accurate registration, candidates can greatly improve their chances of success.

Stay alert for official announcements, prepare using the JAMB syllabus, and register early to avoid unnecessary stress.