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| JAMB 2026 UTME Registration |
JAMB 2026 UTME registration: Guidelines (Jan 31–Mar 8, ₦4,200 fee, NIN mandatory), changes (dual-screen biometrics), steps (profile code to CBT), requirements & mistakes—full guide.
Dreaming of your dream university but overwhelmed by the application maze? The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has unveiled the JAMB 2026 UTME registration guidelines, setting the stage for over 2 million Nigerian students to secure their spot in tertiary institutions starting January 31, 2026. With JAMB releases registration guidelines for the 2026 UTME emphasizing accurate NIN-linked details and biometric verification to curb fraud, this process is more streamlined yet stricter than ever. Whether you're a fresh SSCE holder or resitting, this exhaustive guide covers the full jamb 2026 utme guidelines, step-by-step registration, jamb 2026 utme registration changes like dual-screen mandates, fees, and preparation tips—your definitive resource to ace the 2026 cycle without errors.
From profile code generation to mock exams, navigate JAMB 2026 with confidence and avoid common pitfalls.
Overview of JAMB 2026 UTME Registration: What to Expect
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Nigeria's gatekeeper for university admissions, has released comprehensive jamb 2026 utme guidelines to ensure a fair, transparent process for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Registration kicks off on Friday, January 31, 2026, and closes on Saturday, March 8, 2026—a tight 5-week window amid rising applicant numbers (2.4 million in 2025). This year's jamb 2026 utme registration changes include mandatory NIN verification, dual-screen biometric checks, and e-PIN sales only through approved channels to combat fraud.
Key highlights:
- Eligibility: SSCE holders or equivalents, aged 16+ (no upper limit).
- Form Cost: ₦3,500 (e-PIN) + ₦700 service charge = ₦4,200 total.
- Exam Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT) in April 2026; mock in March.
- Subjects: 4 choices (English compulsory + 3 others).
JAMB's official bulletin JAMB Official Bulletin confirms the timeline.
Quick CTA: Verify your NIN now by sending it to 55019 or 66019—start your profile code generation hassle-free!
JAMB 2026 UTME Registration Dates and Timeline
The JAMB 2026 UTME registration follows a structured schedule to accommodate millions.
Timeline:
- Registration Start: January 31, 2026 (Friday).
- Registration End: March 8, 2026 (Saturday)—5 weeks total.
- Mock Exam: Late March 2026 (optional practice).
- Main UTME: April 2026 (exact dates TBA in February).
- Results Release: May 2026.
- Admission Letters: June–August 2026 via CAPS portal.
Late registration (with penalty) ends March 15. JAMB X announcement JAMB on X.
JAMB 2026 UTME Registration Changes: What's New This Year
JAMB 2026 UTME registration changes prioritize security and accuracy, per the Board's December 7, 2025, release.
Major updates:
- NIN Integration: All details auto-pulled from NIMC—mismatches invalidate forms.
- Dual-Screen Mandate: Registration centers must use two screens for real-time photo/biometric verification.
- Biometric Fixes: Fingerprint issues? Visit JAMB office only—no center overrides.
- e-PIN Channels: Banks, approved vendors, or online platforms only—no street sellers.
- Profile Code Lock: Once generated, biodata can't change—verify pre-submission.
These curb fraud (20% drop in 2025). Edugist on changes Edugist JAMB Changes.
Eligibility Criteria for JAMB 2026 UTME Registration
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board sets clear rules for participation.
Requirements:
- Age: Minimum 16 years by September 2026 (no upper limit).
- Qualification: 5 O'Level credits (including English/Math) in WAEC/NECO/NABTEB (2 sittings max).
- NIN: Valid National Identification Number (free via NIMC centers).
- No Limit: Unlimited attempts for resitters.
Direct Entry (DE) candidates need A'Level/ND/NCE. MySchool eligibility MySchool JAMB Eligibility.
Step-by-Step JAMB 2026 UTME Registration Process
The process is online-first, then CBT center visit—follow to avoid errors.
- Generate Profile Code: Text NIN to 55019/66019 (₦50)—get 10-digit code valid 2 hours.
- Buy e-PIN: ₦3,500 at banks (Zenith, UBA) or approved CBT centers; add ₦700 service.
- Visit CBT Center: With code, e-PIN, O'Levels, passport photo (use JAMB template).
- Fill Form: Choose 4 subjects, university/course (first/second/third choices).
- Biometrics & Photo: Capture fingerprints/photo on dual screens—verify instantly.
- Pay & Print: Complete payment; print slip with photo.
No photo? Retake at center (₦500). Punch NG step-by-step Punch JAMB Registration.
Fees and Payment for JAMB 2026 UTME Registration
Budget ₦4,200 total—non-refundable.
Breakdown:
- e-PIN: ₦3,500.
- Service Charge: ₦700 (CBT center).
- Optional: Late fee ₦5,000 (post-March 8).
- DE Extra: ₦3,500 for A'Level upload.
Pay via Remita at banks or USSD. Daily Post fees Daily Post JAMB Fees.
Infographic: Fee pie chart (e-PIN 83%, service 17%).
Required Documents and Preparation for Registration
Gather these for smooth process.
Essentials:
- NIN Slip: From NIMC enrollment.
- O'Level Results: Printed WAEC/NECO slip.
- Passport Photo: Recent, white background (use JAMB template from myschool.ng).
- e-PIN Voucher: From bank/center.
- Local Gov't ID: For age verification.
Prep tips: Practice CBT with JAMB app; choose realistic courses. Hausatracks prep Hausatracks JAMB Guide.
Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting in JAMB 2026 Registration
Avoid these pitfalls:
- Wrong NIN: Double-check—mismatches reject forms.
- Expired Code: Generate fresh within 2 hours.
- Biometric Failure: Visit JAMB office; no center fixes.
- Fake e-PIN: Buy from approved sources only.
Troubleshoot: Call 07017524444 or email support@jamb.gov.ng. Gistreel warnings Gistreel JAMB Mistakes.
For more, ABU Screening for New Students 2025/2026
The JAMB 2026 UTME registration—starting January 31 with new NIN/biometric rules—opens doors to Nigeria's universities; follow these guidelines for success.
Generate your profile code by texting NIN to 55019 today—your future awaits!
Registered yet? Share your tips below! Bookmark for deadlines, share with SS3 pals, and subscribe for JAMB updates. Prepare strong—UTME 2026 calls!
