JAMB Sets April 16-25, 2026 for Nationwide UTME
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially announced that the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) will be conducted nationwide from April 16 to April 25, 2026. This critical announcement, part of a comprehensive release, provides prospective candidates with the necessary timeline to plan effectively for their academic future. The detailed schedule aims to help students navigate the entire registration and testing process smoothly, ensuring no candidate is left behind.
Registration for the UTME will commence on January 26, 2026, and close on February 28, 2026. For Direct Entry candidates, the registration window is scheduled from March 2 to April 25, 2026. All candidates must create a JAMB profile linked to a unique mobile number and their National Identification Number (NIN) before purchasing an E-PIN. The board explained that a 10-character profile code will be sent to the registered number, which must then be presented at any participating bank, POS outlet, or online payment platform to complete the transaction.
In preparation for the main event, a mock UTME is slated for March 28, 2026. The board confirmed that results for the main examination will be released only after the completion of the entire evaluation process. Regarding fees, candidates opting for the UTME with the mock exam will pay N8,700, while those without will pay N7,700. Direct Entry applicants are required to pay N5,700. These fees are inclusive of the application, the prescribed reading text—”The Lekki Headmaster” by Kabir Alabi Garba—and other ancillary charges.
JAMB has also emphasized academic prerequisites and inclusivity measures. UTME candidates must possess a minimum of five O’Level credit passes, including English Language. Direct Entry candidates must have O’Level credits alongside higher qualifications. The board is committed to accommodating candidates with disabilities, urging those who are blind, deaf, mute, or have conditions such as albinism or dyslexia to indicate so during registration for placement at JAMB Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG) centres. This move towards inclusivity stands in stark contrast to the instability seen in other regions, much like recent coups West Africa has experienced, highlighting the importance of stable institutions.
Finally, the board issued stern reminders on prohibited items—including earphones, wristwatches, and mobile phones—and reiterated that all admissions must be processed through its Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS). Any offer outside CAPS is deemed illegal. This structured approach, akin to a well-organized moonshot 2025: ‘ai project, requires precise planning. As public reactions to policy shifts vary, similar to Shirley Igwe react to events, candidates are advised to adhere strictly to these guidelines for a successful examination experience.
