Last Updated on January 27, 2026 by Promise Jackson
Many students across Nigeria are asking one important question right now: Is JAMB registration form for 2026 out? The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially started registration for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) candidates.
This means students who want to gain admission into universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and other tertiary institutions can now begin their registration process. JAMB has also released full details about the registration timeline, fees, exam dates, and important rules candidates must follow.
In this article, you will find everything you need to know about JAMB 2026, including how to register, how much the form costs, closing dates, and important tips to avoid mistakes.
Is JAMB Registration Form for 2026 Out?
Yes, JAMB 2026 is officially out. Registration for UTME candidates started on Monday, January 26, 2026, and will close on Saturday, February 28, 2026. The sale of e-PINs began earlier on January 19, 2026, and will end on February 26, 2026.
For Direct Entry (DE) candidates, registration will start on Monday, March 2, 2026, and end on Saturday, April 25, 2026. Unlike UTME, DE registration will only be done at JAMB State and Zonal Offices.
JAMB Registrar, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, assured candidates that the registration process will be smooth, as systems have been put in place to ensure efficiency across all accredited CBT centres.
What Is the Official Novel for JAMB 2026?
All UTME candidates will be tested on the novel: “The Lekki Headmaster” by Kabir Alabi Garba
After completing your registration at any accredited CBT centre, you are entitled to receive a free copy of the novel. If it is not given to you, you are advised to request it immediately.
How Much Is JAMB Form 2026?
Another common question students ask is: How much is JAMB form 2026? Below are the official prices released by JAMB:
- UTME with Mock – ₦8,700
- UTME Only (Without Mock) – ₦7,200
- Direct Entry (DE) – ₦5,700
- Mock Only (Trial Test) – ₦3,500
Breakdown of JAMB Fees
| Fee Description | Amount (₦) |
|---|---|
| JAMB Application Fee | 3,500 |
| Reading Text | 1,000 |
| CBT Centre Registration Charge | 700 |
| CBT Centre UTME Service Charge | 1,500 |
| CBT Mock Service Charge (Optional) | 1,500 |
| Bank Charges | 500 |
Candidates are advised to pay only the approved amounts and avoid centres that attempt to overcharge them.
Who Can Register for JAMB 2026?
Candidates can choose any of the following institutions during registration:
- Universities
- Polytechnics / Monotechnics
- Colleges of Education
- Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA)
- Nigeria Police Academy
- Innovation Enterprise Institutions
All candidates must ensure they meet the admission requirements for their chosen institutions and courses before registering.
JAMB Registration Dates 2026
Here are the official registration timelines:
UTME Candidates (Including Foreign Applicants)
- Registration Period: Monday, January 26 – Saturday, February 28, 2026
- Registration Deadline: Saturday, February 28, 2026
- e-PIN Vending: Monday, January 19 – Thursday, February 26, 2026
Direct Entry Candidates
- e-PIN Vending & Registration: Monday, March 2 – Saturday, April 25, 2026
- Registration Centres: JAMB State and Zonal Offices only
Candidates are advised to register early to avoid last-minute rush and system delays.
JAMB Examination Date 2026
The 2026 UTME examination will take place from Thursday, April 16 to Saturday, April 25, 2026
Candidates will be assigned specific dates, times, and centres, which will appear on their JAMB examination slip. All candidates must reprint their slips before the exam to confirm their details.
The optional mock examination is scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2026
How to Register for JAMB 2026
- To register for JAMB 2026, follow these simple steps:
- Visit any JAMB-accredited CBT centre near you.
- Provide your NIN, phone number, and email address.
- Fill in your biodata (name, date of birth, state, LGA, etc.).
- Choose your course and institution(s).
- Enter your O’level results or indicate “awaiting result.”
- Select your UTME subjects based on your chosen course.
- Choose your exam town.
- Do biometric capture and fingerprint verification.
- Print and collect your JAMB registration slip.
Your registration slip is proof of successful registration, so keep it safe.
How to Register for JAMB 2026 in Foreign Countries
Foreign candidates can register for JAMB 2026 in approved centres located in Accra, Abidjan, Addis Ababa, Beau, Jeddah, Cotonou, Johannesburg, Berlin, and London.
Steps:
- Download application documents from JAMB’s website.
- Submit them with the required fees at designated centres.
- Contact Nigerian Embassies in those countries for guidance.
Important Rules Candidates Must Know
JAMB has released several rules candidates must follow:
- Parents, guardians, or agents must not register on behalf of candidates.
- Multiple registrations will lead to automatic disqualification.
- Registration must only be done at accredited CBT centres.
- Candidates must keep their profile code, password, and slip safe.
- Only computer-based tests (CBT) will be used.
- Biometric verification is compulsory before entering the exam hall.
Compulsory Disclosure of Previous Admission Status
All candidates must now disclose any previous admission or matriculation history during registration. If you were previously admitted into any institution and fail to declare it, your registration or previous admission may be invalidated.
Candidates who wish to start afresh are allowed to do so, but false declaration is an offense.
What About Candidates With Biometric Issues?
Candidates with biometric challenges:
- Must register only at the JAMB State or National Offices.
- Will sit for the exam at JAMB Headquarters in Abuja.
- Cannot be registered at normal CBT centres.
- Must undergo biometric verification before examination.
Final Thoughts
Yes, JAMB 2026 is officially out, and registration is already ongoing. If you plan to gain admission into any Nigerian tertiary institution this year, now is the time to act. Make sure you register early, double-check your details, and follow only JAMB-approved procedures.
Preparation is also very important. Start studying early using past questions and stay updated with official JAMB announcements.
Don’t wait till the last minute. Register for JAMB 2026 now and start your admission journey today.