The registration for the 2026 UTME and Direct Entry (DE) examinations is expected to commence in January 2026. As part of early preparations, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released initial guidelines to help candidates get ready ahead of time.
While the registration process is expected to be largely similar to previous years, one key update has been introduced: candidates will now be required to declare their current admission status, indicating whether they are already enrolled in any tertiary institution or not.
If you plan to sit for the 2026 UTME or apply through Direct Entry, the steps below will help you prepare properly before registration officially begins.
- OBTAIN YOUR NATIONAL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (NIN)
The National Identification Number (NIN) remains mandatory for all UTME and DE applicants. Candidates who do not yet have a NIN should promptly visit an approved NIMC enrolment centre to complete their registration, as you cannot proceed without it. - HAVE AN ACTIVE, REGISTERED PHONE NUMBER
You will be required to generate your JAMB profile code using a registered phone number by sending your NIN to a designated JAMB shortcode. Ensure the phone number is active, accessible, and registered in your name, as all official JAMB notifications will be sent to it. Check this link: Generate your 2026 JAMB registration profile code for detailed instructions on how to generate your profile code. - CREATE A VALID EMAIL ADDRESS
An email address is compulsory during JAMB registration and serves as a backup means of accessing your profile. If you don’t already have one, create a free email account—preferably Gmail—for ease of access and reliability. - DECIDE ON YOUR PREFERRED COURSE OF STUDY
Now is the best time to carefully choose the course you intend to study. Consider your interests, strengths, and academic background. It is also advisable to prepare a second-choice course, as you will be required to provide one during registration. - SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION(S) AHEAD OF TIME
Before registration begins, decide on the institution you want to apply to. Check whether the school offers your chosen course, review its admission requirements, tuition fees, and location. Having an alternative option such as a polytechnic or college of education can increase your chances of admission. - CONFIRM THE CORRECT SUBJECT COMBINATION
Each course requires a specific UTME subject combination. Choosing the wrong subjects can automatically disqualify you from admission, regardless of your score. Make sure you verify the correct subject requirements for your course and institution before registration. - SEEK GUIDANCE WHEN NECESSARY
If you are unsure about your course choice, institution, or subject combination, seek advice early. Getting proper guidance can save you from costly mistakes during registration and admission processing. Join our JAMB 2026 WhatsApp group to get instant advice and answers to your questions. Join here. - UNDERSTAND THE JAMB REGISTRATION PROCESS
The registration process generally follows three main stages:
Profile Code Generation → Purchase of e-PIN from authorised vendors → Registration at an approved JAMB CBT centre
Important reminders:
– Correct any errors in your NIN details (name, date of birth, gender, etc.) at NIMC before registration.
– Use a unique phone number and email address that will not be shared with another candidate.
– If you encounter biometric issues, report directly to a JAMB office.
– Ensure your passport photograph and fingerprints are correctly captured and cross-check all details before final submission. - BEGIN YOUR EXAM PREPARATION EARLY
Preparation should start well before the exam. Success in UTME is not just about reading hard but studying smart. Practising past questions is essential, as many questions are often repeated from previous years.
Once the 2026 JAMB registration officially begins, we will provide step-by-step guidance to help candidates complete their registration smoothly.
Until then, stay focused, stay prepared, and get ready for success.
