JAMB Announces 2026 UTME Registration, Exam Dates and Guidelines
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially opened preparations for the **2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME)**, providing candidates with full details on registration, eligibility, fees, and examination dates. The announcement marks a critical moment for millions of prospective students seeking admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education for the 2026/2027 academic session.
Quick Insight:
JAMB’s announcement outlines the entire timeline for the UTME and Direct Entry (DE) process, helping candidates plan ahead and avoid mistakes during registration. Key dates, eligibility rules, and guidelines have been shared to streamline candidate preparation.
Registration Timeline and Requirements
• UTME registration will begin on **Monday, 26th January 2026** and run through **Saturday, 28th February 2026**.
• Candidates are required to generate a profile code before purchasing their application e-PINs and completing registration.
• Applicants must be at least **16 years old by 30th September 2026** to be generally eligible to sit for the UTME.
• Underage candidates below 16 may be allowed to register only after an intensive evaluation and exceptional performance criteria are met.
Direct Entry and Special Instructions
• Sale of Direct Entry application forms and e-PIN vending will begin on **Monday, 2nd March 2026**, and conclude on **Saturday, 25th April 2026**.
• Direct Entry registration is conducted at designated JAMB State and Zonal Offices nationwide.
• JAMB has advised candidates to ensure their personal details, including National Identification Number (NIN) and contact information, are correct before registration to avoid issues.
Exam Dates and Structure
• The **2026 UTME examination** is scheduled to be held between **Thursday, 16th April 2026** and **Saturday, 25th April 2026**.
• An **optional Mock-UTME** will take place on **Saturday, 28th March 2026** to help candidates gauge their readiness.
• The exam will be conducted nationwide across accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres, with all candidates expected to adhere to prescribed exam rules and logistics.
Fees and Candidate Preparedness
• JAMB has announced different fee categories, including registration packages with or without the mock exam.
• Candidates are reminded to only buy e-PINs from authorised vendors and payment channels to avoid fraudulent activities.
• The board also emphasises proper preparation ahead of the exam, urging candidates to use credible study resources and understand the examination format.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 UTME announcement sets the stage for the upcoming academic year’s admission cycle, offering clear guidance on how candidates can register, prepare, and sit for the exam. With well-defined timelines and requirements, JAMB aims to facilitate a smooth and organised process for all prospective applicants across Nigeria and beyond.
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