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| JAMB UTME Registration Fee 2026 |
Discover the official JAMB UTME registration fee 2026, cost breakdown, payment methods, what’s included, and how to register without mistakes.
Every year, millions of Nigerian students prepare for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) as a gateway to universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. One of the most searched concerns is the JAMB UTME registration fee 2026, which determines how much candidates will pay to register and sit for the exam. Understanding this fee — and how it’s structured — is essential for planning and avoiding unnecessary stress during the registration process.
In this article, we break down the JAMB UTME registration fee 2026, explore the components of the cost, explain optional fees, and offer actionable tips to ensure a smooth registration journey.
What Is the JAMB UTME Registration Fee 2026?
The JAMB UTME registration fee 2026 refers to the total amount an eligible candidate must pay to apply for the UTME. This fee varies slightly depending on whether candidates opt to include the optional Mock UTME. Based on verified fee structures reported from official registration portals:
- With Mock UTME: Approximately ₦8,200
- Without Mock UTME: Approximately ₦7,200
These figures include the base application fee and the various mandatory and optional components associated with registration at an accredited CBT center.
Why the Fee Matters for Candidates
Understanding the exact registration cost helps students and parents:
- Budget effectively for all expenses
- Avoid overpayment or fraud
- Plan for additional costs like travel or study materials
- Know what must be paid vs. what is optional
JAMB has emphasized that the fee structure has been maintained without a hike — a relief for many families navigating financial planning for tertiary education costs.
Detailed Breakdown of the JAMB UTME Registration Fee 2026
Here’s a clear breakdown of what the JAMB UTME registration fee 2026 typically includes:
1. UTME/DE Application Fee — ₦3,500
This is the core fee charged by JAMB for application processing. It is mandatory for all UTME and Direct Entry candidates alike.
2. Reading Text/Compulsory Novel — ₦1,000
JAMB requires all UTME candidates to purchase a recommended reading text (the novel), which is often provided after registration at the CBT center.
3. CBT Centre Registration Service Charge — ₦700
This is the fee charged by JAMB-accredited computer-based testing (CBT) centers for capturing your details and biometric information.
4. CBT UTME Service Charge — ₦1,500
This covers the service the center provides during the computer-based UTME registration.
5. Optional Mock UTME Fee — ₦1,500
This fee applies only if you choose to take the mock exam, which gives practice experience ahead of the main UTME.
6. Bank/Third-Party Charges — ₦500
This amount goes toward transaction processing when paying online through platforms like Remita, Interswitch, or bank apps.
Why There Are Variations in Reported Fees
Sometimes different sources quote slightly different totals for the JAMB UTME registration fee 2026 because:
- Some include or exclude the Mock UTME fee
- Others assume only the core application fee
- Bank or platform charges vary slightly depending on method
- CBT centers may add small administrative tokens (not official)
Always confirm cost details with your accredited CBT center and the official JAMB website to avoid overpaying.
How to Pay the JAMB UTME Registration Fee 2026
1. Online Payment
You can pay via the official JAMB payment portal using:
- Remita
- Interswitch
- Bank apps
Ensure you use the unique profile code generated after creating your JAMB profile to avoid payment errors.
2. Bank/Authorized POS
Visit your bank or POS agents to purchase the e-PIN and pay the necessary charges.
3. Accredited JAMB CBT Centers
You can make total payment directly at a JAMB-accredited CBT center nationwide, where they will guide you through the rest of your registration.
Always ensure you register with an accredited center to avoid fraud.
Registration Timeline for 2026 UTME
The window for registration matters just as much as the fee itself. According to the latest schedules:
- Registration start date: Late January 2026
- Registration closing date: Early March 2026
- Mock UTME: Typically scheduled after registration closes
- Main UTME exam: Late April – Early May 2026
Make sure to register early to avoid network congestion and last-minute issues.
Eligibility and Requirements
To register for the UTME, candidates must:
- Be at least 16 years old by September 30, 2026
- Possess a valid National Identification Number (NIN)
- Provide a recent passport photograph
- Have O’Level results (WAEC, NECO, or equivalent red sheet) or be awaiting results
These conditions ensure eligibility and compliance with JAMB’s rules.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even after knowing the JAMB UTME registration fee 2026, candidates often make avoidable mistakes:
1. Paying Unofficial Fees
Only pay through recognized channels. Avoid individuals claiming to offer “discounted” registration — these are likely scams.
2. Waiting Until Last Minute
Delays lead to network downtimes and rushed data entry mistakes.
3. Forgetting NIN Integration
You must link your NIN to your JAMB profile before registration begins, or the system may reject your application.
Tips for a Smooth Registration
- Prepare your documents ahead of time — NIN, passport photo, O’Level results.
- Double-check your personal details before submission.
- Confirm registered phone and email for updates and result releases.
- Consider taking the Mock UTME — it offers practice and familiarity with CBT.
- Visit the official JAMB website for the most accurate updates.
For general JAMB UTME preparation strategies and tips, check out related content on our site that helps you approach the exam with confidence.
What the Fee Covers — Clarifying Misconceptions
It’s important to understand that the JAMB UTME registration fee 2026 does not cover:
- Post-UTME screening fees charged by individual universities
- Acceptance or admission fees once you secure a place
- Any travel or accommodation for exam day
It strictly covers the exam registration and services needed to sit the UTME.
Ready to register for JAMB UTME 2026? Start by securing your NIN and visiting an accredited CBT center early — and plan your payment based on whether you want the mock exam included.
Conclusion
The JAMB UTME registration fee 2026 is a crucial part of your journey toward tertiary education in Nigeria. Whether you opt for the mock exam or not, knowing how much you’ll pay — and what each part of the fee covers — empowers you to budget effectively and register correctly.
Stay updated with official JAMB announcements, prepare your documents early, and don’t delay your registration. With the right planning and clarity on costs, you’re one step closer to taking the UTME and pursuing your academic goals in 2026.
