JAMB Clarifies Position on Undergraduate Registration for 2026 UTME and Direct Entry
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has issued a clear statement addressing widespread confusion regarding the eligibility of undergraduate students to register for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination and Direct Entry programs. Contrary to circulating reports, JAMB has confirmed that candidates currently enrolled in tertiary institutions are not prohibited from participating in these examinations.
Misinformation and Social Media Controversy
Recent claims suggesting that undergraduates have been banned from UTME registration have been described by JAMB as misleading and deliberately distorted. The controversy gained traction following a post by Alexx Onyia, CEO of Educare, on social media platform X, which garnered over 200,000 views. Onyia expressed concerns that the policy would force students to forfeit existing admissions before attempting to secure new ones, creating unnecessary academic risks.
In a stern rebuttal issued on January 28, 2026, JAMB dismissed these interpretations as originating from self-styled education advocates who promote personal interests over factual information. The board emphasized that this false narrative resurfaces annually during registration periods, causing unnecessary panic among candidates and parents.
Actual Registration Requirements Explained
JAMB has clarified that its actual directive focuses on transparency and disclosure rather than prohibition. The board's official position includes:
- Candidates registering for 2026 UTME or Direct Entry must disclose their matriculation status where applicable
- Registration while enrolled in an institution is not an offence
- Failure to declare existing admission status constitutes an offence
- The disclosure requirement supports the board's statutory responsibility to prevent multiple admissions
Professor Ishaq Oloyede, JAMB's registrar, emphasized that the system is designed to ensure orderly academic transitions. When a candidate secures admission through new registration, any previous admission automatically lapses in accordance with Nigerian admission laws.
Legal Framework and System Integrity
JAMB highlighted that Nigerian law explicitly prohibits candidates from holding multiple admissions simultaneously. The disclosure requirement serves multiple purposes:
- Maintaining the integrity of the admissions system
- Preventing abuse and multiple admission scenarios
- Identifying potential examination malpractice cases
- Ensuring fair opportunities for all candidates
The board revealed that some matriculated students have been involved in examination malpractice by operating as professional examination takers. Mandatory disclosure makes it easier to identify and sanction such candidates when detected.
Consequences of Non-Disclosure
JAMB warned that candidates who fail to declare their existing admission status face serious consequences. Although the board's systems can detect prior matriculation, non-disclosure may result in:
- Forfeiture of existing admission
- Loss of newly secured admission through UTME or Direct Entry
- Potential disciplinary actions
The board cautioned the public against relying on sensational social media claims and advised candidates and parents to obtain information exclusively through official JAMB channels.
2026 UTME Registration Details
Prospective candidates should note that JAMB has released comprehensive guidelines for the 2026 UTME registration. Key requirements include:
- Valid National Identification Number
- Functional email address
- Other specified documentation
The registration period runs from January 31 to March 8, 2026, providing ample time for proper preparation and compliance with all requirements.
