Every candidate seeking admission into a Nigerian university, polytechnic, or college of education must register for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted every year by JAMB.
In this article, Infonaijabase walks prospective students through the process of how to register JAMB in 2026 and also select the right universities and courses of their choice.
Registration is the first official step toward gaining admission in 2026, and understanding the correct procedure will help you avoid costly mistakes.
The registration process involves creating a profile, purchasing an ePIN, completing biometric capture at an accredited CBT centre, and selecting your preferred institutions and course of study.
Each stage must be handled carefully to ensure your data is accurate and valid.
Step 1: Create Your JAMB Profile Using NIN
The first stage of JAMB 2026 registration is profile creation. Every candidate must have a National Identification Number (NIN). Without NIN, you cannot proceed with JAMB registration.
To create your profile, send your NIN via SMS using your personal phone number to the official JAMB short code (usually 55019 or 66019, depending on the announced platform). After sending your NIN, you will receive a 10-digit Profile Code. This code is essential, as it will be used to purchase your JAMB ePIN and complete your registration.
It is very important to use a phone number that belongs to you and remains active, as this number will be permanently linked to your JAMB record throughout the admission process.
Step 2: Purchase the JAMB 2026 ePIN
After generating your Profile Code, the next step is purchasing your JAMB ePIN. The ePIN serves as confirmation of payment for the UTME or Direct Entry form.
Candidates can purchase the ePIN at designated banks, microfinance banks, accredited CBT centres, and approved online platforms. While JAMB will officially announce the 2026 registration fee, previous years have included charges for the UTME form, compulsory reading text, CBT service charge, and administrative fees.
Always confirm the official amount from JAMB before making payment to avoid misinformation or overcharging.
Step 3: Visit an Accredited CBT Centre for Registration
JAMB registration cannot be completed entirely online by candidates themselves. After purchasing your ePIN, you must visit an accredited CBT centre to finalize your registration.
At the CBT centre, your biometric data (fingerprints) will be captured, and your passport photograph will be taken. Your personal details will be entered into the JAMB system, and you will select your subject combination, course of study, and preferred institutions.
Biometric capture is mandatory. Without it, your registration will not be valid.
Step 4: Choose Your Institution and Course Carefully
During registration, candidates are allowed to choose first, second, third, and fourth choice institutions. These may include universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, or other approved tertiary institutions.
Before selecting your course, it is important to research the correct subject combination required for that course. Choosing the wrong subject combination can automatically disqualify you from admission, even if you score high in the examination. Take time to confirm your eligibility before final submission.
Step 5: Upload Your O’Level Results
Candidates must provide their O’Level results during registration. Accepted examination bodies include the (WAEC), the (NECO), and NABTEB.
If your results are not yet available, you may indicate “awaiting result” during registration. However, you must upload your results later on the JAMB portal to be considered for admission.
Ensure that your name matches across all documents to avoid admission complications.
Step 6: Print and Verify Your Registration Slip
After completing your registration at the CBT centre, you will be given a registration slip. This document contains your registration number, selected institutions, subject combination, and personal information.
Before leaving the centre, carefully review all details. Confirm that your name, date of birth, gender, and selected subjects are correct. Errors at this stage can create serious issues later in the admission process.
Keep your registration slip safe, as you will need it for examination and admission tracking.
Important Tips for JAMB 2026 Candidates
Register early to avoid last-minute rush and technical problems. Use a valid and accessible email address for communication. Double-check your subject combination before final submission. Always verify your details before leaving the CBT centre.
Taking these precautions can save you from unnecessary stress and additional payment for corrections.
Cost of JAMB UTME 2026 Registration
The cost of registration of the 2026 JAMB UTME examination varies. Below is a breakdown;
– UTME with mock options – 8,700
– UTME without mock examination options costs 7,200
– Direct Entry costs 5,700.
Note: The mock option is not mandatory and is only based on preference.
Conclusion
Registering for JAMB 2026 is straightforward if you follow the correct procedure. Start by creating your profile using your NIN, purchase your ePIN through approved channels, complete your biometric capture at an accredited CBT centre, and carefully verify your information before submission.
By registering early and ensuring accuracy at every stage, you increase your chances of a smooth admission process into your desired institution in 2026.
