Last Updated on January 28, 2026 by Promise Jackson
If you are wondering what the JAMB UTME/DE Registration Document for 2026 are, then you are on the right place. This complete guide walks you through the documents, requirements, steps, and everything you need to successfully register for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) or Direct Entry (DE) in Nigeria. Whether you are a first-time applicant or upgrading through the DE program, this guide is for you.
What is JAMB UTME/DE Registration Document?
JAMB, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, conducts the UTME exam annually for candidates seeking admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions like universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. DE, on the other hand, is for candidates who already have advanced qualifications and want to gain direct entry admission.
The UTME/DE registration document refers to the official checklist and process issued by JAMB that candidates must follow to successfully register for the 2026 exams.
Who Is Eligible to Register for JAMB UTME/DE 2026?
Before you begin registration, make sure you meet the basic requirements:
UTME: Candidates must have a minimum of five (5) credit passes in O’Level subjects including English Language (and Mathematics depending on the programme).
DE: Must have higher qualifications like A-Levels, National Diploma, NCE, or equivalents. Also, candidates should upload their qualifications for verification at the point of registration.
Age Requirement: Candidates generally must be at least 16 years old by 30th September 2026.
What Documents Do You Need for JAMB 2026 Registration?
To register properly, you need the following key items:
1. National Identification Number (NIN): Your NIN is crucial. You must link your NIN to a personal GSM number (SIM card) before starting registration. This SIM number will remain the same for all future JAMB applications.
2. Unique Phone Number and Email: You need a functional mobile number for profile creation and SMS alerts. A valid personal email address for communication from JAMB and e-PIN / Profile Code. Before you can register, you must generate a Profile Code and purchase an e-PIN to access the registration portal.
4. O’Level & DE Certificates: For UTME, your O’Level certificates (e.g., WAEC, NECO) are needed for subject combinations. For DE, you need uploadable advanced qualifications such as A-Level, ND, NCE, or degree certificates.
5. Passport Photograph: Your biometric photo and fingerprints will be captured at the CBT centre. You do not upload passport photos online.
When Does JAMB 2026 Registration Start and End?
Be sure to complete your registration early to avoid last-minute challenges and missing your chosen exam town. below are Important dates you must know:
- E-PIN Sales (UTME): Commenced on 19th January 2026 and ends 26th February 2026.
- UTME Registration Period: 26th January – 28th February 2026.
- DE E-PIN Sales & Registration: 2nd March – 25th April 2026.
- Mock UTME (Optional): Expected around 28th March 2026.
- Main UTME Exam: Between 16th and 25th April 2026.
How to Create Your JAMB Profile Code
The first step is creating a JAMB profile:
- Send an SMS from your mobile phone in this format:
NIN 12345678901to 55019 or 66019. - You will receive a 10-character Profile Code via SMS. This code is your access key to purchase the registration e-PIN.
- Keep your Profile Code, email, and phone number safe. You will use them throughout the registration process.
What Is the e-PIN and How Do You Get It?
The e-PIN is a unique code you buy to access the JAMB registration portal. You can get e-PINs from:
- Approved banks
- Mobile money operators (MMOs)
- Participating financial institutions like NIPOST
- USSD partners and payment platforms
You must present your Profile Code to purchase an e-PIN. After payment, the e-PIN will be sent to your phone via SMS.
There are different e-PIN options:
- UTME without Mock – ₦7,200
- UTME with Mock – ₦8,700
- Direct Entry (DE) – ₦5,700
Additional charges like CBT service and bank fees may apply.
How to Complete the Registration at a CBT Centre
After obtaining your e-PIN:
1. Visit an Accredited CBT Centre: Go to any JAMB-accredited Computer Based Test (CBT) centre near you with your Profile Code and e-PIN.
2. Biometric Capture: At the centre, your:
- Photograph
- Ten fingerprints
will be captured digitally. This is mandatory for identity verification and examination eligibility.
3. Fill in Registration Details: Provide:
- Personal information
- Choice of institutions and programmes
- UTME subject combinations
- Qualified certificate details
- Choice of examination town
4. Review and Confirm: Carefully check all information before final submission. Errors here can lead to registration rejection or incorrect data on your result slip.
5. Print Your Registration Slip: Once your details are confirmed and biometrics captured, you can print your registration slip. This slip is your official proof of registration.
What If You Lose Your Profile Code or e-PIN?
Mistakes happen, but don’t panic send RESEND from the same SIM used to generate your profile code to 55019/66019 to retrieve the Profile Code. To recover a lost e-PIN after payment, send a request like UTMEPIN using your registered phone to 55019/66019.
Conclusion
Registering for JAMB 2026 UTME/DE doesn’t have to be confusing. If you follow the steps in this guide from generating your profile to visiting an accredited CBT centre you’ll complete your registration smoothly. Start early, prepare all required documents, and double-check your entries before submission to avoid mistakes that could affect your admission.
Good luck with your JAMB 2026 registration and exam!
Promise Jackson