2026 UTME Registration: JAMB Unveils Mandatory New Guidelines

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially released the guidelines for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) registration, marking the beginning of the annual admission cycle. The announcement emphasizes several mandatory prerequisites and a streamlined, cashless registration process designed to enhance security and curb examination malpractice. This 2026 UTME Registration guideline is a must follow for every institutions and students.

Mandatory Requirements and Key Dates

Candidates intending to register for the 2026 UTME must adhere strictly to the following mandatory requirements and timelines:

• National Identification Number (NIN): The NIN is compulsory for all candidates. It serves as the unique identifier for the entire registration process, linking a candidate’s biodata to their JAMB profile. Failure to obtain and verify the NIN will prevent registration.
• Unique Phone Number: Candidates must use a single, unique mobile phone number for registration. This number must not have been previously used by any other candidate and will be tied to the candidate’s profile for all future official communications, including admission updates.
• Age Limit: Candidates must be at least 16 years old by September 30, 2026, to be eligible for admission. Candidates below this age may sit for the examination but are advised to apply for the trial mock.
• O’Level Results: A minimum of five credit passes in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, is required for admission eligibility. Candidates with Awaiting Results must upload their O’Level results to the JAMB portal once available.
• New Policy on Admission Status: A significant new rule requires all candidates to declare their current admission status during registration, stating if they are already students in any tertiary institution. This measure is intended to combat fraud, with severe penalties, including prosecution, threatened for falsification.

Step-by-Step Registration Procedure

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The registration process remains cashless and strictly confined to JAMB-accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres.

1. Profile Code Generation (NIN Linkage)

The process begins with generating a 10-digit profile code, which links the candidate’s phone number and NIN to the JAMB database.

• SMS Format: Candidates must text the word “NIN” followed by a space and their 11-digit NIN (e.g., NIN 12345678901) to either 55019 or 66019.
• Response: A response message containing the candidate’s 10-digit Profile Code will be received. A service charge (approx. N50) applies.

2. e-PIN Purchase

The profile code is necessary to purchase the application form (e-PIN).

• Purchase Channels: The e-PIN can be purchased from accredited financial institutions (banks), NIPOST, or approved payment platforms.
• Cost: The cost of the e-PIN is N3,500. Additional mandatory fees apply, bringing the total registration fee to approximately N7,200 (N5,200 without the optional mock exam).

3. Final Registration at CBT Centre

Candidates must then proceed in person to any JAMB-accredited CBT centre, presenting their Profile Code, e-PIN, and other required documents.

• Biometrics: The CBT centre will capture the candidate’s biometric data (all ten fingerprints) and photograph. This step is mandatory, and verification will be required on the day of the examination.
• Data Entry: Registration officials will assist the candidate in filling out the online form, selecting their choice of institution and course of study.
• Printout: The candidate receives a printout of the registration slip, which must be kept safe and used for all further JAMB-related activities.

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