How to Register for JAMB 2026 UTME and Direct Entry: Dates, Rules and Full Guide

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially opened registration for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE), signaling the start of the 2026/2027 admission process across Nigeria.

This registration exercise is for candidates seeking admission into universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and other tertiary institutions. As in previous years, JAMB has released clear dates, strict rules, and a defined registration process that candidates must follow carefully.

Many admission problems usually begin at the registration stage due to wrong biodata, NIN issues, or incomplete registration steps. This guide explains everything candidates need to know to register successfully.

Official JAMB 2026 UTME Registration Dates

Understanding the approved timeline is important to avoid missing deadlines.

According to JAMB:

• Sale of e-PINs starts Monday, January 19, 2026
• UTME registration opens Monday, January 26, 2026
• UTME registration closes Saturday, February 28, 2026
• Sale of e-PINs ends Thursday, February 26, 2026

JAMB has made it clear that registration will not be extended beyond the closing date.

Mock UTME and Main Examination Schedule

JAMB also announced dates for both the mock and main examinations.

• Mock UTME holds Saturday, March 28, 2026
• Main UTME exam runs from Thursday, April 16, to Saturday, April 25, 2026

The mock exam is optional but useful for candidates who want to become familiar with the CBT exam system.

How Direct Entry (DE) Registration Works in 2026

Direct Entry candidates have a separate registration window.

• DE registration begins Monday, March 2, 2026
• DE registration ends Saturday, April 25, 2026

JAMB stated that Direct Entry registration is done only at JAMB State and Zonal Offices. Candidates are warned not to register for DE at CBT centres, as such entries will not be accepted.

How NIN Affects JAMB 2026 Registration

A valid National Identification Number (NIN) is compulsory for all candidates.

JAMB explained that:

• No registration is possible without a NIN
• Candidate details must exactly match NIN records
• Biodata is automatically retrieved from the NIMC database

Any mismatch in name, date of birth, or gender can lead to registration failure or future admission issues. Candidates are advised to correct NIN errors before starting registration.

How to Register for JAMB 2026 Step by Step

Following the correct steps helps prevent mistakes.

Prepare Before You Register

Before beginning the process, candidates should ensure they have:

• A valid and correct NIN
• A personal and active phone number
• Accurate personal details that match NIN records

The phone number used will be permanently linked to the candidate’s JAMB profile.

Generate Your JAMB Profile Code

To generate your profile code:

• Send an SMS in this format
  NIN 12345678901
  to 55019 or 66019

After sending the message, a 10-digit profile code will be sent to your phone. This code is unique and should be kept private.

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Buy JAMB e-PIN

With your profile code, purchase your e-PIN through approved channels such as banks and other authorized platforms. Always confirm your name before completing payment.

Complete Registration at an Accredited Centre

UTME candidates must visit a JAMB-accredited CBT centre to complete:

• Biometric capture
• Passport photograph
• Subject and institution selection

Candidates should review all information carefully before final submission.

Common Registration Mistakes Candidates Should Avoid

Some common errors include:

• Using incorrect NIN details
• Sharing profile codes with others
• Registering at unapproved centres
• Choosing wrong subject combinations
• Waiting until the last minute to register

Avoiding these mistakes can save candidates from serious admission problems later.

Final Advice for 2026 JAMB Candidates

JAMB registration is the first and most important step in the admission process. Early preparation, correct information, and careful registration can make the entire journey easier.

Candidates are advised to follow only official JAMB guidelines, register early, and keep all registration records safe.