The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially commenced the 2026 Direct Entry (DE) registration exercise.
The board announced the development through its verified X account on Monday, March 2, 2026.
According to the notice, the sale of application documents started on the same day and will run until Saturday, April 25, 2026.
JAMB directed all prospective Direct Entry candidates to note that the entire registration service, including the purchase of application documents, is available only at its offices nationwide. This arrangement applies exclusively to the 2026 Direct Entry process.
JAMB stated that the 2026 Direct Entry registration has commenced, on Monday, March 2, 2026, and will end on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
It added that this service can be accessed only at its offices nationwide.
Candidates are advised to visit any JAMB State or Zonal Office within the registration window to complete the process.
The board has emphasised that registration must be done in person, and no online or third-party arrangements will be accepted.
What JAMB is All About
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is a federal government agency established by Act No. 2 of 1978 (later amended).
It serves as Nigeria’s central body for regulating admissions into all public and private tertiary institutions, including universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and innovative enterprise institutions.
JAMB conducts the annual Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for 100-level admissions and manages the Direct Entry process for candidates with advanced qualifications seeking 200-level entry.
The board maintains the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS), sets national policy guidelines, determines minimum cut-off marks, verifies candidate credentials, and ensures transparent, merit-based admissions across the country.
It operates from its headquarters in Bwari, Abuja, with State and Zonal Offices in all 36 states and the FCT.
Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide to 2016 JAMB Direct Entry Registration
- Obtain a Valid National Identification Number (NIN): Every candidate must have a registered NIN issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). If you do not have one, visit the nearest NIMC enrolment centre to register and collect your NIN slip.
- Create Your JAMB Profile Code: Using your personal active GSM line (not a shared or post-paid line without airtime), send an SMS in the exact format: NIN followed by a space and your 11-digit NIN (e.g., NIN 12345678901) to 55019 or 66019. You will receive a unique 10-character Profile Code via SMS on the same line. Keep this code safe as it is required for all transactions.
- Prepare All Required Documents: Gather originals or verified copies of the following: O’Level results (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, or equivalent) with at least five credits including English and Mathematics.
- A’Level, NCE, ND, HND, IJMB, JUPEB, or any approved higher qualification certificate
- Birth certificate or age declaration
- Valid personal email address
- Recent passport photographs (though biometrics will be captured on-site)
- Ensure your qualifications are pre-verified where necessary.
- Visit a JAMB State or Zonal Office: Between Monday, March 2, 2026, and Saturday, April 25, 2026, go personally to any JAMB office in your state or zone. Direct Entry registration and e-PIN vending for 2026 will be handled exclusively at these offices.
- Purchase the Direct Entry e-PIN: At the office, present your Profile Code and pay the sum of N5,700 (application fee plus service charges). The e-PIN will be issued to you immediately or sent via SMS to your registered number.
- Complete the Online Application Form at the Office: Using the e-PIN, fill the Direct Entry form. Provide accurate personal details, choice of up to two institutions and courses, previous qualification details (including institution, year of graduation, and matriculation number), and upload scanned copies of required certificates where prompted.
- Capture Biometrics and Photograph: Your ten-finger fingerprints and live photograph will be captured on-site. This step is mandatory for validation and cannot be done by proxy.
Review, Authenticate and Print Confirmation Slip: Carefully check all entries for accuracy. Authenticate with your fingerprint, then print the registration slip containing your JAMB registration number and examination details.
Important Notes
- The entire process must be completed personally; no agents, parents, or proxies are allowed.
- Use only one valid phone number and email throughout.
- Any false information or multiple registrations will lead to disqualification.
- Keep your Profile Code, e-PIN, and printed slip secure.
- For complaints or corrections, visit the JAMB e-facility portal or contact the office where you registered.
Candidates are encouraged to begin the process early to avoid last-minute congestion at the offices. For further enquiries, visit www.jamb.gov.ng or any JAMB office.
