The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially commenced the sale of forms for the registration of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for the 2026/2027 academic session.
In a statement released by JAMB Registrar Professor Ishaq Olanrewaju Oloyede, he officially announced that the JAMB 2026 UTME registration date will start from February 3, 2026, to March 8, 2026.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is Nigeria's statutory body responsible for conducting entrance examinations into tertiary institutions, including universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
The Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination is a computer-based standardized assessment designed for prospective undergraduate students in Nigeria. Before the year 2014, this examination was conducted using traditional paper-and-pencil methods. However, since May 17, 2014, all iterations of the examination have transitioned to a computer-based format.
JAMB 2026/2027 Registration Eligibility and General Requirements
To participate in the JAMB UTME 2026/2027, applicants must have and meet the following foundational criteria and possess the mandatory eligibility:
Age Requirement: Candidates must be at least 16 years old by September 30, 2026. Those under 16 may participate in a trial mock exam but require exceptional performance (at least 80% in relevant subjects) for consideration.
Educational Qualifications: A minimum of five O-Level credits, including English Language and Mathematics (for science and social science courses), obtained in not more than two sittings from WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, or GCE. Awaiting results is permissible if uploaded before the admission deadline.
National Identification Number (NIN): An 11-digit unique identifier from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), mandatory for profile creation and verification.
Communication Details: A valid, active phone number and functional email address for JAMB communications.
Biodata and Biometrics: Accurate personal details (name, date of birth, gender, state of origin, local government area), passport photograph (recent, 2x1.5 inches, white background), thumbprint, and signature.
Interested applicants are advised to take their time to verify all documents in advance to prevent registration issues.
JAMB 2026/2027 Registration Process and Timeline
Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) registration for Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) candidates is conducted exclusively at accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centers nationwide. The process is cashless, emphasizing digital payments to enhance security.
Official JAMB Registration, Mock, and Main UTME Examination Dates for 2026/2027 Session
The JAMB Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, UTME registration date is set to officially start on February 3, 2026, and end on March 8, 2026, the date was officially announced by the JAMB Registrar Professor Ishaq Olanrewaju Oloyede.
The JAMB Direct Entry registration will officially start on March 10, 2026, and end on April 7, 2026.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Mock Examination date is set to state on April 19, 2026. However, the mock is an optional examination for JAMB applicants.
The main JAMB UTME examination date is set to start on April 25 to May 5, 2026. The exact schedules will be released via personal notification to all applicants.
The JAMB reprinting of examination slips will officially start on April 18, 2026. Applicants are advised to register early to avoid congestion, which sometimes leads to some applicants writing their examination in a nearby state.
What is JAMB Print Out
JAMB printout is an official document from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) that contains a candidate's essential such as the exam slip, which is for the exam itself and shows your date, center, and time, and registration number.
Types of JAMB Print print Out
Exam Slip: This is the slip you need to print for your Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). It contains your personal details, passport photograph, and the specific date, time, and venue for your exam. You can print or reprint it from the JAMB portal.
Original Result Slip: This is an official, colored version of your UTME or Direct Entry (DE) result. It includes your scores, passport photo, and other exam details and is necessary for admission screening at your institution. You must pay a fee to the JAMB e-facility portal to print this document.
How to do JAMB 2026 Print Out
Exam Slip:
- Visit the JAMB exam slip printing portal: slipsprinting.jamb.gov.ng/PrintExaminationSlip.
- Enter your registration number, email, or phone number.
- Click "Print Examination Slip" to display the slip on your screen, which you can then print or save as a PDF.
Original Result Slip:
- Log in to the JAMB e-facility portal using your email and password.
- Select "Print Result Slip".
- Make the required payment to the JAMB e-facility portal.
- Download and print your official, colored result slip.
Step-by-Step for JAMB 2026/2027 Registration Procedure
To register for JAMB, create a JAMB profile, send your NIN to the specified number, purchase an e-PIN, and visit an accredited CBT center to complete your registration by submitting biometric data and a passport photo.
At the center, you will finalize your registration form and print your registration slip.
- Obtain NIN: Enroll at any NIMC center or via the NIMC app if not already possessed.
- Create JAMB Profile: Text your NIN to 55019 or 66019 from a registered phone number (₦50 fee). Receive a 10-digit profile code.
- Purchase e-PIN: Acquire the JAMB e-PIN (₦3,500) from authorized vendors (see below). It is valid for one registration only.
- Visit Accredited CBT Center: Present profile code, e-PIN, NIN, O-Level results, and biodata for biometric capture and form completion.
- Select Choices: Choose up to four institutions/courses (first and second as universities/polytechnics/colleges; third and fourth as alternatives).
- Complete and Print: Receive a registration slip and system-generated CD containing the syllabus and brochure.
JAMB Registration 2026/2027 Fee Structure
The JAMB registration fee structure for 2026/2027 is outlined as follows:
| Fee Structure | |
|---|---|
| JAMB e-PIN | ₦3,500 |
| Main UTME Examination Fee | ₦1,500 |
| Optional Mock-UTME Fee | ₦1,500 |
| Registration Service Charge | ₦700 |
| Compulsory Textbook | ₦500 – ₦1,000 |
| Total (Main UTME Only) | ~₦7,200 |
Additional bank or service charges may apply. No cash payments at centers. It's essential to note that payment must be made through approved banks or online payment platforms.
JAMB Registration 2026/2027 Authorized e-PIN Purchase Channels
To purchase a JAMB e-PIN for the 2026/2027 UTME registration, you can use the following authorized channels:
- Banks: Zenith, Access, FirstBank, UBA, Ecobank, FCMB, Polaris, Sterling, Jaiz, Unity, and others.
- NIPOST Offices: Nationwide branches.
- Online Platforms: Remita, Interswitch, Quickteller, Paga, OPay, Flutterwave.
- USSD Codes: *737#, *770#, *5656#.
- Mobile Apps: Download JAMB-approved payment apps, such as Jumia Pay, to purchase your e-PIN online.
- Mobile Money Agents: Paga and OPay outlets.
Avoid unauthorized sellers to prevent fraud. For lost profile codes, text "RESEND" to 55019/66019; for e-PIN retrieval, use "UTMEPIN" or "DEPIN."
Important Requirements on JAMB 2026/2027 e-Pin Authorization
- Ensure you have a valid National Identification Number (NIN) to generate your Profile Code.
- Use your own active phone number to receive important JAMB updates.
- Keep your e-PIN secure, as it's required for completing your registration
JAMB Examination Format and Logistics
The UTME is a computer-based test (CBT) lasting 2 hours, comprising 180 multiple-choice questions across four subjects (100 for Use of English, 60 each for three others). No calculators are permitted; an on-screen version is provided where needed.
- Prohibited Items: Calculators, mobile phones, smartwatches, or unauthorized materials. Biometric verification is mandatory.
- Arrival Time: At least 30 minutes early; late entry is not allowed.
- Notification: Exam details (date, time, venue) appear on the printable slip, accessible via the JAMB portal (efacility.jamb.gov.ng) seven days prior.
JAMB 2026 Preparation Strategies for Success
Effective preparation is key to achieving high scores (aim for 250+ for competitive courses). Focus on the official JAMB syllabus, which outlines topics, objectives, and recommended texts.
To succeed in JAMB 2026, here are some proven strategies:
Understand the Exam
- Familiarize yourself with the JAMB syllabus, exam format, and question types
- Know the subject combinations required for your desired course
- Understand how the exam is scored and what's tested
Study Effectively
- Create a Study Plan: Develop a realistic study schedule, allocating time for each subject and topic
- Use Recommended Textbooks: Stick to JAMB-approved textbooks and materials
- Practice Past Questions: Use past questions to understand exam patterns, identify strengths and weaknesses, and improve speed and accuracy
- Take Mock Exams: Simulate exam conditions to build confidence and identify areas for improvement
Master Key Subjects
- English Language: Focus on comprehension, summary, lexis, and structure, as it's compulsory and carries the highest marks
- Focus on Weak Subjects: Identify areas where you need improvement and allocate more time to those subjects
- Practice CBT Format: Get comfortable with the computer-based test format using CBT apps or software
Stay Motivated and Healthy
- Stay Consistent: Study regularly, avoiding last-minute cramming
- Take Breaks: Use breaks to recharge and avoid burnout
- Stay Healthy: Get enough sleep, eat well, and exercise to maintain focus and productivity
- Join Study Groups: Collaborate with others to stay motivated, discuss challenging topics, and learn from one another
Additional Tips
- Use Technology: Leverage CBT apps, online resources, and study tools to enhance your preparation
- Manage Time Effectively: Practice time management skills to optimize your exam performance
- Stay Positive: Believe in yourself and maintain a positive mindset to achieve success
JAMB 2026/2027 Syllabus
The 2026/2027 syllabus is available for download on the JAMB website and covers core subjects. Key areas include:
| Subject | Key Topics/Areas of Concentration |
|---|---|
| Use of English | Comprehension, lexis/structure, oral forms; compulsory novel questions (10–15). |
| Mathematics | Algebra, geometry, trigonometry, statistics. |
| Physics | Mechanics, waves, electricity, optics. |
| Chemistry | Atomic structure, organic chemistry, environmental chemistry. |
| Biology | Cell biology, genetics, ecology. |
| Economics | Micro/macro economics, international trade. |
| Government | Political systems, international relations. |
| Literature | Drama, poetry, prose analysis. |
Download the full PDF from jamb.gov.ng for detailed subtopics and notes.
JAMB 2026 Recommended Novels and Textbooks
- Compulsory Novel: The Life Changer by Khadija Abubakar Jalli – Focus on themes (integrity, education, peer pressure), characters (Salma, Ummi), and plot (six chapters on university life challenges). PDF available via JAMB-approved vendors.
- Textbooks: Use JAMB-recommended lists (e.g., New School Physics by Anyakoha for Physics; Essential Economics by Bajah for Economics).
- Past Questions: Practice 10–15 years' worth to master patterns; available in CBT format apps.
JAMB 2025 Preparation Tips
- Study Plan: Allocate 4–6 hours daily; cover syllabus systematically over 3–6 months.
- Practice CBT: Use JAMB's mock app or online simulators for time management.
- Group Study: Discuss novel and weak areas with peers.
- Health Focus: Maintain balanced diet, sleep, and breaks to avoid burnout.
- Common Pitfalls to Avoid: Guessing wildly, ignoring Use of English, or neglecting O'Level uploads.
Scoring 300+ is achievable with consistent practice and syllabus adherence.
JAMB 2026 Cut-Off Marks and Admission Process
JAMB sets the national minimum UTME score for eligibility:
| Institution Type | Minimum Cut-Off Mark |
|---|---|
| Universities (Federal/State) | 150 |
| Polytechnics | 140 |
| Colleges of Education | 100 |
Departmental cut-offs vary (e.g., Medicine: 250–300; Engineering: 200–250), determined by institutions' post-UTME. Under-16 candidates need 320+.
JAMB Admission Steps
- Post-UTME Screening: Many institutions conduct this (eligibility based on JAMB score).
- Aggregate Calculation: Combines UTME (50%), Post-UTME (30%), O'Level (20%).
- CAPS Portal: Monitor offers via JAMB Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS); accept/reject within timelines.
- Clearing/Supplementary: For unmet quotas.
- Final Verification: Upload O'Levels and accept provisional admission.
Admission is merit-based, considering catchment areas and quotas. Results from previous sessions do not carry over.
Direct Entry (DE) Specifics
DE candidates (with ND, NCE, HND, or A'Levels) follow similar registration but focus on prior qualifications. Period: March 10–April 7, 2026. UTME participation is required, but scores weigh less (10–20%) against advanced credentials.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – JAMB UTME 2026/2027
Direct Entry: 10 Mar – 7 Apr 2026
(Individual schools set higher departmental cut-offs)