Rules, Dates And Registration Of 2026 UTME
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has opened registration for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination and Direct Entry, marking the start of admissions into Nigerian tertiary institutions for the 2026/2027 session.
Registration for UTME began after the sale of e-PINs opened on January 19, with full registration starting on January 26 and running until February 28, 2026.
The sale of e-PINs will end on February 26, while the optional mock examination is fixed for March 28. The main UTME will be conducted between April 16 and April 25. Direct Entry registration will take place from March 2 to April 25 and will be handled only at JAMB state and zonal offices.
A valid National Identification Number remains compulsory for all candidates. JAMB retrieves personal details directly from the National Identity Management Commission database, meaning all biodata must match NIN records exactly.
Any error in names, date of birth, or gender may stop the registration process or cause issues later at the examination stage.
Candidates are required to generate a profile code by sending their NIN via SMS to 55019 or 66019, then purchase an e-PIN through approved channels before completing registration at an accredited CBT centre. Home registration and cyber cafés are not allowed.
At the centre, candidates will capture biometrics, choose institutions and courses, and receive a registration slip, which must be kept safe throughout the admission process
