When is the last day for direct entry registration 2026

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced an extension to the registration deadline for the 2026 Direct Entry (DE) examination.

UTME registration begins on Monday, 19th January, 2026, and ends on Thursday, 26th February, 2026. Direct Entry e-PIN vending and registration will begin on Monday, 2nd March, 2026 and end by Saturday, 25th April, 2026.

According to statements from JAMB, the decision to extend the registration is to allow the board to complete ongoing investigations into candidates suspected of using fraudulent A-Level results for registration.

Therefore, if you are planning to register for the 2026 Direct Entry, you can still do so at any of JAMB’s designated Professional Registration Centres (PRCs). JAMB advises all interested candidates to register as soon as possible and to disregard any earlier speculations about the April 25th deadline. They will announce the new closing date when it is determined.

If you hold a degree, diploma, or A-level certificate and aspire to join a university degree program, the 2026 JAMB Direct Entry registration is now underway. This key step for advanced-level entry necessitates a thorough grasp of the eligibility criteria, the registration process, and all-important dates.

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Before you proceed, check the following:

JAMB Direct Entry Eligibility

Absolutely! Let’s break down the essential aspects of the 2026 JAMB Direct Entry form to guide prospective candidates:

Navigating Your 2026 JAMB Direct Entry Journey: A Comprehensive Guide

Embarking on your university journey through the 2026 JAMB Direct Entry Form? It’s time to get all the crucial information. Do you know the eligibility criteria, the registration process, and the vital deadlines? Read on to discover how you can smoothly transition to the next level of your educational aspirations with this comprehensive guide.

Who is Eligible for Direct Entry?

Direct Entry (DE) is designed for candidates who have already obtained qualifications beyond the secondary school level and wish to gain admission directly into the 200-level (or sometimes 300-level) of a university degree program. To be eligible for the 2026 JAMB Direct Entry, you must possess one of the following qualifications:

• University Degree: Holders of a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.
• Higher National Diploma (HND): Obtained from a recognized polytechnic.
• National Diploma (ND): Obtained from a recognized polytechnic. Note that some universities might require a specific grade point average (GPA).
• Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE): Obtained from a recognized College of Education.
• Advanced Level (A-Level) Certificates: This includes passes in relevant subjects obtained from recognized examinations such as:
  • Cambridge A-Level
  • Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB)
  • Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB)
  • International Baccalaureate (IB)
• Other Equivalent Qualifications: As may be recognized by JAMB.
• Professional Qualifications: Some recognized professional certificates (e.g., ICAN, ACCA, CIPM) may also be considered by certain institutions.

Crucially, in addition to the above, all Direct Entry candidates must also have a minimum of five (5) O’Level credit passes, including English Language and Mathematics, in not more than two sittings.

The Registration Process: Step-by-Step

The registration process for the 2026 JAMB Direct Entry involves several key steps:

1. Obtain a JAMB Profile Code:
   • Send an SMS from your personal phone number (the one you will use for the registration) to either 55019 or 66019.
   • The message format should be: NIN [space] your 11-digit NIN number (e.g., NIN 00123456789).
   • You will receive a 10-digit profile code and your registered name via SMS from JAMB.
2. Purchase the JAMB Direct Entry e-PIN:
   • You can purchase the e-PIN through various channels, including:
     • JAMB-accredited banks: Visit any of the approved banks nationwide.
     • Online payment portals: Use the JAMB e-facility portal or other authorized platforms.
     • JAMB-accredited CBT centers: Some centers also sell the e-PIN.
   • The cost for the 2025 Direct Entry e-PIN is ₦5,700.
3. Visit a JAMB-Accredited Professional Registration Centre (PRC):
   • This is where your biometric data (fingerprints) will be captured, and your documents will be uploaded.
   • Note: Registration can only be done at these designated centers.
4. Present Your Profile Code and e-PIN:
   • At the PRC, provide the profile code you received via SMS and the e-PIN you purchased.
5. Provide Your Information:
   • You will need to provide your personal details, qualifications (including registration/matriculation number, course, and awarding institution for previous qualifications), and choose your preferred institutions and courses of study.
6. Upload Required Documents:
   • Ensure you bring original copies of your credentials for verification and uploading. These typically include:
     • O’Level results (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, GCE, etc.)
     • Degree/HND/ND/NCE certificates or results
     • A-Level certificates (if applicable)
     • JAMB Admission Letter (if you gained previous admission through JAMB)
     • Birth certificate/Age declaration
     • Local Government Identification Certificate
7. Biometric Data Capture:
   • Your ten fingerprints will be captured at the PRC.
8. Review and Confirmation:
   • Carefully review all the information provided to ensure accuracy before submission.
9. Print Your Registration Slip:
   • After successful registration, a registration slip containing your details and registration number will be printed. Ensure you collect and keep this slip safely as it will be required for future reference.
10. Upload of Academic Transcripts:
    • Candidates with university degrees or HND are usually required to arrange for their academic transcripts to be sent directly to JAMB from their previous institutions.

Vital Deadlines: Stay Ahead of the Curve

Please note that the initial closing date for the 2026 Direct Entry registration, which will begin on Monday, 2nd March, 2026 and end by Saturday, 25th April, 2026, has not yet been extended by JAMB.

As of today, Sunday, Jan 18, 2026, JAMB is starting tomorrow being 19th Jamb so therefore JAMB has not announced a new official closing date for the 2026 Direct Entry registration.

The extension was granted to allow JAMB to complete investigations into cases of suspected fraudulent A-Level results.

Therefore, the most crucial advice is to register as soon as possible. Do not wait for the last minute, even though the deadline has been extended. Keep a close eye on JAMB’s official website and announcements for the updated closing date.

Key Dates to Remember (as of now):

• Commencement of Registration: Wednesday, March 2, 2026 (Already commenced)
• Initial Closing Date (Extended): Monday, April 25, 2026 (To be announced later)
• New Official Closing Date: To be announced by JAMB.

Important Considerations:

• National Identification Number (NIN): It is mandatory to have a valid NIN for JAMB registration.
• Accredited Centers: Ensure you register only at JAMB-accredited Professional Registration Centres to avoid issues.
• Accurate Information: Provide accurate information during registration. Any false declaration can lead to disqualification.
• Awaiting Results: Candidates awaiting the results of their qualifying examinations can register, but they must upload their results on the JAMB portal once they are released. Failure to do so will disqualify them.
• Choice of Institutions and Courses: You will be required to select your preferred institutions and courses during registration. Ensure you meet the specific requirements of these choices.

By understanding the eligibility criteria, following the correct registration process, and staying informed about the deadlines, you can navigate your 2026 JAMB Direct Entry journey with greater confidence and increase your chances of a successful transition to university. Good luck!

What are the accepted qualifications for direct entry

1. For the 2026 JAMB Direct Entry (DE) registration, the accepted qualifications typically include:
2. University Degree: Holders of a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.
3. Higher National Diploma (HND): Obtained from a recognized polytechnic.
4. National Diploma (ND): Obtained from a recognized polytechnic. Note that a minimum GPA might be required by some universities.
5. Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE): Obtained from a recognized College of Education, often with a minimum merit grade in relevant subjects, especially for Education programs.
6. Advanced Level (A-Level) Certificates: Passes in relevant subjects from recognized examinations such as:
   • Cambridge A-Level
   • Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB)
   • Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB)
   • International Baccalaureate (IB)
   • General Certificate of Education (GCE A-Level)
7. National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) Advanced National Business Certificate (ANBC).
8. National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) Advanced National Technical Certificate (ANTC).
9. NABTEB GCE A-Level (from specific years, usually 2015-2021; it’s important to check the latest JAMB guidelines for the accepted years).
10. Higher Islamic Studies Certificate (HISC) by the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS).
11. University Diploma: Diplomas from recognized universities may be considered by some institutions for specific programs.
12. Professional Qualifications: Certain recognized professional certificates (e.g., ICAN, ACCA, CIPM) might be accepted by some universities for specific degree programs, particularly in related fields like Accounting or Business Administration.
13. General Requirements for all Direct Entry Candidates:
14. In addition to holding one of the qualifications listed above, all Direct Entry candidates must also have a minimum of five (5) O’Level credit passes, including English Language and Mathematics, obtained in not more than two sittings. Some institutions or specific courses may have more stringent O’Level requirements or specify required subjects.
15. Important Notes:
16. Specific Requirements: Always check the specific Direct Entry requirements for the particular courses and institutions you are interested in, as they can vary. You can find this information in the JAMB brochure for the relevant year and on the individual university websites.
17. Transcripts: Candidates with degrees or HNDs will likely need to arrange for their official academic transcripts to be sent directly to JAMB from their previous institutions.
18. Verification: JAMB and the universities will verify the authenticity of all submitted qualifications. Any fraudulent qualifications will lead to disqualification.
19. Equivalency: For foreign qualifications, you might need to provide an evaluation of their equivalency to Nigerian qualifications from relevant authorities.
20. Combination of Results: While O’Level results can typically be combined (from WAEC, NECO, etc.), A-Level qualifications usually cannot be combined.
21. It is crucial to consult the official JAMB website and the admission guidelines of your desired institutions for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding accepted qualifications for the 2026 Direct Entry.

2026 Direct Entry (DE) Application Sales:

• Start: Monday, 2nd March 2026
• End: Monday, 25th April 2026
• Location: Board’s State and Zonal Offices

Fees:

• Direct Entry (DE) – ₦5,700

Group Registration: Not allowed.

Registration Requirements:

For 2026 Direct Entry Registration:

• Unique Mobile Number: Essential; one number per candidate.
• NIN Submission: Text “NIN [your 11-digit NIN]” to 55019 or 66019.
• Profile Code: A 10-character code received via SMS on your registered phone.
• Communication Link: This phone number will be used for all 2026 and future JAMB-related communication.
• Registration at CBT Centre: Present your Profile Code and e-PIN at any JAMB-accredited CBT Centre.
• Mandatory Capture: Biometrics and photograph will be taken during registration.
• Self-Service: Computer-literate applicants can register independently at JAMB offices/PRCs.

Visit JAMB Form 2026 for UTME & Direct Entry Applicants for more information and guidelines.

JAMB 2025 Registration and Examination Guidelines

1. Profile Creation and NIN:

• Unique Phone Number: Each candidate must use a unique mobile number (SIM), which serves as their identifier for all JAMB transactions.
• NIN Submission: Send “NIN [your 11-digit NIN]” (with a space) via SMS to 55019 or 66019 from your personal GSM number. Do not use post-paid or special bundle lines.
• Profile Code: A 10-character Profile Code will be sent to your registered phone number and remains the same for future applications.
• Phone Number Linking: The number used for NIN registration is automatically linked to your name and will be used for all JAMB communication. Keep this SIM active (consider Telco’s “Keep My Number” service). JAMB does not allow changing this number.
• Application Document Purchase: Present your Profile Code at approved outlets (Banks, MMOs, MFBs, Switches, USSD Partners) to purchase the e-PIN, which will be sent to your phone.

2. Registration Process:

• CBT Centre Registration: Complete registration only at JAMB-accredited CBT Centres. Present your Profile Code and e-PIN. A list of accredited centers is on the JAMB website (jamb.gov.ng).
• Registration Requirements:
  • Select institutions and programmes.
  • Provide a valid, personal email address.
  • Submit qualification details (grades, dates) if available.
  • Upload certificates, if not awaiting results.
  • Choose UTME subjects and examination town(s) for Mock (optional) and UTME.
  • Review and confirm all entries.
  • Print the Registration Slip using biometric authentication.
• Biometric and Photograph Capture: Mandatory at the CBT Centre. All ten fingerprints and a physical photograph will be captured. Use at least two fingers for fingerprint verification, which is required for all future JAMB transactions.
• Awaiting Results: Upload results on the JAMB portal when available. JAMB will not consider institution recommendations without uploaded results. Institutions will download results from the JAMB website.
• NIN Matching: Ensure NIN details match all supporting documents.

3. Examination and Admission:

• Examination Date: The 2026 UTME will be held from Thursday, 16th April 2026, to Saturday, 25th April 2026.
• Examination Venue: The exam will be at any center within your chosen examination town. JAMB does not assign towns outside your selection. Register early to secure your preferred town.
• Biometric Verification: Biometric verification is required to enter the exam hall. No parent or proxy is allowed for any candidate transaction.
• Biometric Challenges: Register and take the exam at JAMB Headquarters, Abuja. JAMB will assist with travel. The exam for these candidates is on the last day of the national exam calendar.
• Admission Status: Check your A’level admission status frequently on your JAMB e-Facility profile. Status will be “CLEARED” (successful) or “NOT CLEARED” (with reasons).
• Admission Procedure: All admissions are issued by JAMB via CAPS (Central Admissions Processing System). Any offer outside CAPS is illegal and void.

4. Important Rules and Information:

• Multiple Registrations: Not allowed. Correct errors through JAMB.
• Registration Conduct: Only JAMB-approved CBT Centres can conduct registrations. Parents, guardians, and third parties cannot register candidates.
• Security: Keep passwords and Profile Codes confidential. Sharing these details makes you responsible for unauthorized changes.
• Choice of Institutions: You can choose from College of Education, University, Innovation Enterprise Institution, Polytechnic/Monotechnic, NDA, or Nigeria Police Academy as your 1st choice.
• Registration Fee: Non-refundable.
• Free Registration: Blind, Deaf, and wheelchair-bound candidates are eligible for free registration (refunded after payment for verification). They must have five credits at the point of registration.
• e-PIN Usage: e-PINs are individual and non-transferable.
• Prohibited Items: Earphones, wristwatches, mobile phones, electronic devices, and pens/biros are banned from exam halls (pencils only).
• Examination Malpractice: Is a criminal offense (result cancellation, publication of names, prosecution). Agree to the “Attestation Clause” during registration.
• Illegal Admission: JAMB will not recognize admissions outside CAPS.
• General Reading Text: All candidates will be tested on “The Lekki Headmaster” by Kabir Alabi Garba.
• Mock-UTME: Optional, on Saturday, 28th March 2025, to prepare candidates. Indicate interest during registration and register early.
• PWDs: Candidates with disabilities (Blind, Deaf/Mute, Albinism, Down Syndrome, Autism, Dyslexia, ADHD, Amputees, Lame, Paralysed, Cerebral Palsy, Disfigurements) must indicate their status for special attention.

5. Contact JAMB:

• Website: jamb.gov.ng
• Phone: +234 812 365 8955, +234 816 633 5513
• Online Support: JAMB’s Online Support (Free Ticketing) Centre on the website.

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