JAMB 2026 Registration: 7 Essential Preparations for Nigerian UTME Candidates
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has released preliminary guidance for the upcoming 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination and Direct Entry registration, which is anticipated to commence this month. Prospective candidates across Nigeria are being urged to begin their preparations immediately to avoid common registration pitfalls and last-minute complications that could jeopardize their admission prospects.
In a significant development for the 2026 exercise, JAMB has introduced a new requirement that mandates all candidates to declare their current admission status during the registration process. This includes explicitly stating whether they are already enrolled in any tertiary institution, a measure designed to enhance data accuracy and improve transparency within the admission system.
Key Items Candidates Must Prepare Before Registration Opens
Below are seven critical elements that all prospective UTME and Direct Entry candidates should have ready before the 2026 JAMB registration portal becomes active:
- Obtain Your National Identification Number
The National Identification Number remains an absolute prerequisite for all UTME and Direct Entry registrations. Candidates who have not yet secured their NIN are strongly advised to visit approved National Identity Management Commission enrolment centres without delay. Registration cannot proceed under any circumstances without a valid NIN, making this the foundational step in the preparation process.
- Secure a Registered Phone Number
Candidates must generate their unique JAMB profile code by sending their NIN via a registered phone number to the designated JAMB shortcode. This telephone number will serve as the primary channel for receiving official updates, examination details, and critical notifications throughout the admission cycle. It is therefore essential that this number is personal, functional, and easily accessible at all times.
- Create a Functional Email Address
An active email address is mandatory during the registration process and functions as a vital backup for profile recovery and password resets. Candidates without existing email accounts are encouraged to create one well in advance of registration. Gmail accounts are frequently recommended due to their widespread accessibility and reliability across various devices and platforms.
- Decide on Your Preferred Course of Study
Prospective students are advised to conduct thorough research and carefully select their intended course of study before registration commences. Having a predetermined second-choice course is equally important, as this information is required during registration and may significantly enhance admission opportunities should the primary choice become unavailable.
- Select Preferred Institutions Early
Applicants should meticulously evaluate and decide upon their preferred institutions, considering multiple factors including course availability, specific admission requirements, tuition fees, accommodation options, and geographical location. Establishing a backup option such as a polytechnic or college of education is strongly recommended to maximize admission possibilities.
- Confirm Correct Subject Combinations
Each academic course maintains specific subject requirements that candidates must fulfill. Prospective examinees are urged to consult the official JAMB Brochure extensively to avoid selecting incorrect subject combinations, which could automatically disqualify them from admission consideration regardless of their examination performance.
- Seek Guidance When Uncertain
Candidates who experience uncertainty regarding course selection, institutional choices, or subject combinations are encouraged to seek advice from credible educational sources. Numerous educational platforms, discussion forums, and professional counseling services remain available to provide guidance as the registration period approaches.
Registration Timeline and Additional Considerations
The registration process for the 2026 UTME is expected to closely follow the structure established in previous years, with the notable addition of the admission status declaration requirement. According to available information, the JAMB 2026 UTME form will be available for purchase from Friday, January 31, 2026, through Saturday, March 8, 2026, providing candidates with a substantial window to complete their registrations.
JAMB Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, has emphasized that these early guidelines are intended to help applicants avoid common mistakes and last-minute setbacks that have historically affected registration outcomes. The board continues to refine its processes to ensure smoother registration experiences and more transparent admission procedures for all Nigerian tertiary education aspirants.
