This comprehensive guide outlines the mandatory rules and procedures for the 2026 UTME registration, emphasizing the compulsory use of the National Identity Number (NIN) for verification and the estimated total fee of around NGN 8,000. It details the two-phase registration process, from generating a Profile Code to completing biometric capture at a CBT centre, and advises prospective candidates to meet the age requirement of 16 by the time of admission. Furthermore, the guide clarifies that all degree admissions must be approved via the JAMB CAPS system, detailing non-UTME alternatives like Direct Entry (DE) and A-Level programs (IJMB/JUPEB).
2026 UTME New Registration Rules You Need to Know
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) consistently updates its registration procedures to ensure fairness, reduce fraud, and simplify the admissions process for candidates across Nigeria.
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The 2026 UTME is no exception, with several key rules—especially concerning identity verification—that every prospective candidate must follow strictly.
Here is a breakdown of the mandatory rules and essential information for the upcoming examination cycle.
Is JAMB still compulsory for admission in 2026?
Yes, the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), administered by JAMB, remains compulsory for admission into virtually all degree-awarding undergraduate programmes in Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
While some institutions, particularly colleges and polytechnics, offer Direct Entry (DE) or other programmes that bypass the UTME, to gain admission into a Federal or State university’s degree programme, a candidate must:
- Register for and sit the UTME.
- Meet the minimum cut-off mark set by the specific institution.
- Possess the required O-Level credits (usually 5 credits, including English and Mathematics).
- Participate in the institution’s Post-UTME screening (if applicable).
In short, if you are seeking a university degree, the UTME is still the primary gateway.
What are the things needed to register for JAMB?
To successfully register for the 2026 UTME, candidates must prepare both digital and physical requirements.
| Requirement | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| National Identity Number (NIN) | Mandatory | The single most crucial requirement. Your NIN data must match your name exactly. |
| Active Phone Number | Mandatory | Must be linked to your NIN and used for all official communication (Profile Code generation, alerts). |
| Email Address | Mandatory | Used to create your JAMB profile and access your results and admission status. |
| UTME e-PIN | Mandatory | The electronic payment slip purchased from banks/vendors after generating your Profile Code. |
| O-Level Details | Required | Details of your WAEC, NECO, or GCE results (you can use Awaiting Result if necessary). |
| Profile Code | Mandatory | The 10-digit code generated by sending your NIN to the JAMB shortcode. |
How much is JAMB registration fee for 2026?
While the exact cost for the 2026 UTME will be released by JAMB when the registration period officially begins, the fees typically comprise several compulsory components.
Based on previous years, the expected cost is usually around NGN 7,700 to NGN 8,000 for a candidate using the compulsory literature text and the optional Mock-UTME.
| Component | Estimated Fee (NGN) | Status |
|---|---|---|
| e-PIN/Registration Fee | 5,000 – 6,000 | Compulsory |
| Compulsory Reading Text | 1,000 – 1,500 | Compulsory |
| CBT Service Charge | 700 – 1,000 | Compulsory (Paid at CBT Centre) |
| Mock-UTME (Optional) | 1,000 | Optional |
How to register 2026 UTME?
The 2026 UTME registration process is strictly tied to the National Identity Number (NIN) and must be completed in two main phases: Profile Generation and Final Biometric Registration.
Phase 1: NIN Verification and Profile Code Generation (Candidate Responsibility)
- Mandatory NIN Verification: Ensure the name, date of birth, and other data on your NIN slip perfectly match your academic credentials. Errors must be corrected at a NIMC office before proceeding.
- Generate Profile Code: Send an SMS containing your 11-digit NIN to the designated JAMB shortcode (e.g., 55019 or 66019).
- Format:
NIN [Your 11-digit NIN]
- Format:
- Receive Profile Code: JAMB will send back a 10-digit Profile Code to the phone number used. This code is your unique identifier for the entire process.
- Purchase e-PIN: Use the Profile Code at any authorized banking channel (commercial banks, mobile money operators, etc.) to purchase the UTME e-PIN.
Phase 2: Biometric and Academic Registration (CBT Centre Only)
- Visit Accredited Centre: Take your Profile Code and e-PIN to any JAMB-accredited CBT centre (no other registration venue is permitted).
- Biometric Capture: The CBT official will use the profile code to access your form. Your fingerprints and a live facial photograph will be captured. This is a mandatory security measure.
- Data Confirmation: You will select your four preferred institutions, the course of study, and your UTME subject combination. All candidates must select the compulsory reading text provided by JAMB.
- Submission: The form is submitted digitally, and you will receive a printout confirming your registration, exam town, and details.
What is the deadline for JAMB registration 2025-2026?
The official deadlines for the 2026 UTME have not been formally announced by JAMB. However, based on recent years, candidates should expect the following general timeline:
- Registration Window: The sale of the UTME registration form typically commences between January and early February and lasts for approximately four to six weeks.
- Likely Deadline: The registration period often closes in late February or early March 2026.
Actionable Advice: Do not wait for the deadline. Complete your NIN verification and generate your Profile Code immediately when the window opens, as server congestion is common towards the final days.
What is the age requirement for JAMB 2025-2026?
The official age requirement set by JAMB for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination is based on the date of entry into the institution, not the date of registration.
The primary rule is:
- A candidate must be at least 16 years old by the time they are admitted to the institution.
While JAMB permits candidates younger than 16 to sit the examination, they may not be offered admission until they have met the age requirement. Most universities strictly enforce this rule during physical clearance and screening.
Can schools give admission without JAMB approval?
No, schools cannot legally finalize an admission for a degree programme without JAMB approval.
Every student offered admission into a Nigerian university must have their status approved and processed through the JAMB Central Admission Processing System (CAPS). This ensures that candidates meet the minimum national requirements, and that institutions adhere to their approved quotas and admission guidelines.
Can I get admission to university without JAMB? (Which school gives admission without jambs?)
Yes, you can gain admission into a degree programme without sitting the UTME, but not without JAMB’s knowledge. These are typically known as Direct Entry (DE) or preliminary programs:
- Direct Entry (DE): If you already possess an advanced qualification (like an OND, HND, NCE, or an A-Level certificate like IJMB/JUPEB), you can apply for Direct Entry. DE candidates register with JAMB, but they do not sit the UTME. They are admitted directly into the second year of a degree program.
- Preliminary/Affiliated Programs: Some universities offer pre-degree, remedial, or foundation programs (like JUPEB or IJMB) in affiliation with other bodies. These programs, which typically last nine months to a year, train students and offer an alternative path to Direct Entry admission into the 200-level of the university, bypassing the UTME.
Schools that offer these non-UTME pathways usually include most Federal and State universities, but the program names (e.g., JUPEB at University of Lagos, IJMB at University of Ilorin) vary.
Who gives admission first between school and JAMB?
The University (School) offers the admission, and JAMB validates and processes it.
- School Action: The university’s Admissions Committee compiles a list of candidates who meet their departmental cut-off marks and O-Level requirements. The school then recommends these names to JAMB via the CAPS platform.
- JAMB Action: JAMB reviews the list to ensure the candidates are eligible (e.g., they didn’t apply for too many courses, met the basic UTME score, etc.). If the school’s recommendation is compliant, JAMB processes the admission.
- Candidate Action: The candidate must then Accept or Reject the admission offer on the JAMB CAPS portal for it to be finalized.
Which university accepts a low JAMB score?
There is no fixed list, as cut-off marks are dynamic and depend on the course’s competitiveness and the number of applicants. However, certain factors make a school or course more likely to accept a lower score:
| Category | Typical Low Cut-off Range (140-180) | Example Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| State Universities | Often slightly lower than Federal ones for certain courses. | Target courses in Agricultural Sciences, Education, or Arts/Humanities. |
| Private Universities | Many have the minimum cut-off of 140, as they prioritize filling their quota. | If cost is manageable, this is the most reliable option for a 140-160 score. |
| Colleges of Education | Typically the lowest cut-off points (often 140). | A great starting point to get a degree, with options to upgrade later via Direct Entry. |
General Rule: If your score is low, always target institutions in less competitive regions and apply for less saturated courses.
What should I do if I didn’t get admission?
Not getting admission is common, but it is not the end of your academic journey. Here are your best options:
- Change of Course/Institution: If your score is decent (e.g., 180+) but you missed the cut-off for a competitive course (like Medicine), use the JAMB Change of Course/Institution window to switch to a less competitive course or a less competitive university that accepts your score.
- Register for Direct Entry Programmes: Enroll in a recognized A-Level program like IJMB or JUPEB. After nine months to a year, you can use the A-Level certificate to gain Direct Entry into the 200-level, skipping the next UTME.
- Re-sit the UTME: Dedicate time to improving your score and sit for the UTME again the following year. This time, start your preparation much earlier, possibly taking the optional Mock-UTME.
- Explore Vocational Training: Consider acquiring a valuable skill or certification that can serve as a backup or an alternative career path while you pursue admission.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding JAMB and the admission process:
1. Can I use two different phone numbers for my NIN and JAMB registration? No. It is crucial to use a single, active phone number that is formally linked to your NIN. This number will be used to generate your Profile Code, receive important alerts, and track your admission status.
2. What is the difference between JAMB’s minimum cut-off mark and a University’s cut-off mark? JAMB sets the minimum score required (usually 140) for a candidate to be considered for admission into any university. However, individual universities and specific competitive courses (like Law, Medicine) set much higher institutional cut-off marks (e.g., 200-250) that candidates must meet to qualify for their Post-UTME screening.
3. If I use ‘Awaiting Result’ during registration, what is the deadline for uploading my O-Level result? You must upload your O-Level result (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB) on the JAMB CAPS portal as soon as it is released. Failure to upload the result before the institution begins its admission processing will lead to your application not being considered.
4. Is the Mock UTME compulsory for candidates? No, the Mock UTME is strictly optional. However, it is highly recommended as it provides candidates with hands-on experience of the CBT environment, helps identify technical issues, and serves as a vital practice test.
5. How many institutions can I choose during registration? You are required to choose four institutions: one University, one Polytechnic/College of Education, one College of Education/Polytechnic (depending on your first choice), and one Innovation Enterprise Institution (IEI).
6. What documents must I take to the UTME exam hall? You must only take your JAMB Examination Slip (containing your picture, registration number, exam date, and centre) and a valid form of identification (like your NIN slip). Prohibited items include phones, smartwatches, calculators, and bags.
7. Can I change my State of Origin or Local Government Area (LGA) after registration? Changes to fundamental personal data like State of Origin or LGA usually require a formal application at the JAMB office or a JAMB-accredited CBT centre during the approved data correction window.
8. Is there an upper age limit for sitting the UTME? No, JAMB does not impose an upper age limit. You can take the UTME regardless of your age, provided you meet the minimum requirement (16 years) by the time of matriculation.
9. Can I change my UTME subject combination after registering? No. Once you have finalized your UTME registration at the CBT centre, the four registered subjects cannot be changed. This is why careful selection based on your course requirements is critical.
10. What is the role of the Post-UTME screening? The Post-UTME screening (or aptitude test) is conducted by your chosen institution after the UTME results are out. It is used by the university to further assess and shortlist candidates who met their internal cut-off mark, making it the final hurdle before admission is recommended.
