Jamb Latest News And Registration:
The 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) cycle is officially in full swing. For millions of Nigerian students, this period represents the most critical phase of their academic journey. With the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) introducing several new policies and strict deadlines, staying updated is no longer optional, it is a necessity for survival.
As of early February 2026, here is the comprehensive breakdown of the latest news, registration timelines, and policy shifts you must know to secure your admission.
The 2026 JAMB Master Calendar
JAMB has released a definitive timeline for the 2026 exercise. Unlike previous years where extensions were common, the Board has signaled a strict adherence to these dates to align with the national academic calendar.
The table below shows everything regarding Jamb Latest News And Registration
| Event | Official Date |
|---|---|
| e-PIN Vending Commenced | Monday, January 19, 2026 |
| Registration Commenced | Monday, January 26, 2026 |
| e-PIN Vending Ends | Thursday, February 26, 2026 |
| Registration Deadline | Saturday, February 28, 2026 |
| Mock-UTME (Optional) | Saturday, March 28, 2026 |
| Main UTME Examination | April 16 – April 25, 2026 |
Critical Note: The deadline to buy your e-PIN is two days before the registration portal closes. If you do not have your PIN by February 26, you cannot register on the 27th or 28th.
Jamb Latest News 2026
New Policies for 2026
This year, JAMB Registrar Prof. Is-haq Oloyede has introduced several “integrity-first” policies aimed at streamlining the admission process and curbing irregularities.
Mandatory Disclosure of Matriculation Status
In a major policy shift, JAMB now requires any candidate who is already a student in a tertiary institution but wishing to write the UTME again to declare their status during registration.
The Catch
Registering while currently enrolled is not a crime, but failure to disclose it is.
The Consequence
If you are admitted through the 2026 UTME and did not disclose your current enrollment, your previous admission/matriculation will be forfeited automatically once the new one is processed.
The “No Vision, No Registration” Rule
JAMB has invoked a strict biometric policy for 2026. Candidates must ensure their biometric data (fingerprints and facial capture) is done at accredited centers.
Any candidate with persistent biometric challenges must be referred to the JAMB National Headquarters for manual vetting.
Changes for Special Categories
JAMB has recently reviewed concessions for certain groups. Notably, the Board has emphasized that all candidates, including those with physical challenges, must adhere to the standard registration flow, though specific support is provided at designated “Special Centers” during the examination.
Jamb Registration Fees
What Are You Paying?
The cost of the 2026 JAMB form depends on whether you opt for the Mock examination.
UTME Registration (Without Mock): ₦6,200
UTME Registration (With Mock): ₦7,700
Direct Entry (DE) Registration: ₦6,200
These fees cover the e-PIN, the reading text (The Lekki Headmaster), and the CBT center service charge. Ensure you pay only at authorized banks, via Remita, or using the USSD codes provided on the official JAMB website.
The Step-by-Step Registration Process For JAMB UTME
To ensure a successful registration, follow this proven 2026 workflow:
Step 1: Profile Code Generation
Send your National Identification Number (NIN) via SMS to 55019 or 66019.
Format: Text “NIN [11-digit number]” to the code.
Cost: ₦50 will be deducted from your airtime.
Result: You will receive a 10-character Profile Code.
Step 2: e-PIN Purchase
Take your Profile Code to an accredited bank, a POS agent at a CBT center, or use the online payment portal to buy your e-PIN.
Step 3: Visit an Accredited CBT Center
Do not go to a regular cyber café. You must visit a JAMB-Accredited CBT Center. You will provide your e-PIN, and the operator will capture your biometrics, choice of institutions, and O’Level results (or select “Awaiting Result”).
Step 4: Collect Your Slip
Before leaving the center, ensure you have your JAMB Registration Slip. This is your evidence of registration and contains your registration number, which you will need for the rest of your life.
Study Focus: “The Lekki Headmaster”
For the 2026 Use of English paper, the compulsory reading text is “The Lekki Headmaster” by Kabir Alabi Garba.
Expect at least 10 to 15 questions from this book.
Focus on character names, the location of events, and the central themes of integrity and the Nigerian education system.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid in JAMB UTME Registration
- Multiple Registrations: Registering more than once will lead to automatic disqualification. If you make a mistake, wait for the Correction of Data window.
- Wrong Subject Combination: Double-check the JAMB Brochure (IBASS) for your specific course. If you want to study Pharmacy but do not take Biology, your 300+ score will be useless.
- Proxy Registration: Never let someone else do your thumbprinting. You must be physically present at the CBT center.
Conclusion
The Ball Is in Your Court
The 2026 JAMB registration window is narrow and the rules are stricter than ever. With the February 28th deadline fast approaching, procrastination is your greatest enemy. Ensure your NIN is ready, choose your courses wisely, and get registered before the final rush begins.
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