PeterThe long awaited Jamb 2026 registration date has been officially released. This is the time serious students should be vigilant and start to prepare their registration money and documents. If you’re taking the UTME in 2026, then continue reading because this article was made specifically for you.
According to JAMB, the registration for UTME exams will kickstart on Friday 31st January 2026. They have set the deadline to Wednesday 5th March 2026. You should not take this as rumor because it is the official date.
It is up to you to ensure that you do not miss it now.
This article is your full guide to the Jamb 2026 registration, what you should know before registering, what will happen once you have registered, and how to evade the usual mistakes that plunge students into a future of lost opportunities every year.
Why the JAMB 2026 Registration Date Matters More Than You Think
The JAMB registration period is also seen as another school calendar event by many students. But it is still deeper than that. The JAMB 2026 registration date is not just the date that you enroll in order to take an exam. This is also where your preparation comes into reality. It is where you sharpen your focus. It is where you quit discussing going to university and take the actual step.
When the registration window is open, there is no more time to lose every day. It is harmful to procrastinate. Any delay may cost you a year. And for many students, it has.
So now that you know the registration date for 2026, it is time to start planning yourself. It is very important that you give yourself a personal deadline to finish your registration. You do not have to wait until the closing time. They might arise some unforeseen issues that may delay you.
JAMB 2026 Registration Date: Key Dates You Must Remember
The following are the important dates that you shall note in your calendar:
Registration Begins: Friday, January 31st, 2026
Registration Deadline: Wednesday, March 5th, 2026.
These dates are final. The JAMB does not give many deadline extensions. Otherwise, you will have to wait till 2027. It has been a long time waiting simply because you procrastinated on something that would have only required a few hours.
What You Should Do Before the JAMB 2026 Registration Date
You must have these things ready before January 31st to hand them in:
1. National Identification Number (NIN)
Without it, you cannot make a registration. Get one now, in case you do not have one.
2. Verifiable phone number and email address
JAMB will direct all your exam information to the phone number and e-mail by which you are using. Make sure they work.
3. Profile Code
This is a 10-digit code that you can receive when your NIN is sent to 55019 through SMS.
4. O-Level Results or Awaiting Result Status
When you are awaiting results, you need to know the guidelines on it.
5. Learn Your Course and Institution Choice
It is not to be done at the eleventh hour. Study now your course and school.
6. Familiarize yourself with the JAMB Brochure.
This will make you not make errors in subject combination.
What Happens During the JAMB 2026 Registration Window
When the JAMB 2026 date of registration comes, they will be registered only at JAMB-approved CBT centers. Cybercafes and non-approved agents are to be avoided. Your registration can be invalid in case you register at the wrong place.
The following is what will be done during registration:
- You will give your profile code.
- You will complete your individual information.
- You will decide on your course and institutions.
- You will be uploading your passport photograph.
- You will be fingerprinted.
- Your exam town will be of your choice.
- The registration payment will be N8,000.
- You will receive your e‑slip.
What Has Changed in the 2026 JAMB Registration?
These are some updates you might otherwise not get in any other source except their reliable internal sources, which are near JAMB:
New CBT Software Interface: JAMB will present a more convenient CBT platform in 2026. This will be of particular help to the students who are not accustomed to typing on a computer.
Matching of Fingerprints at Registration and Exam Center: JAMB can now compare fingerprints registered and those at the exam center in real time. This will eliminate impersonation.
Better Result Processing Schedule: It is hoped that the 2026 UTME results will be available within 48 hours of the examination. This is grounded on a new system that JAMB has tried internally.
What to Expect After the JAMB 2026 Registration Date Closes
After the JAMB 2026 registration date expires and the portal shuts on March 5th, 2026, the next step is the following:
Mock Exam (Optional): In case you decide to take it, this will be a few weeks before the registration deadline.
Re-printing exam slip: You will have to reprint the exam slip so that you can be aware of your date and center.
UTME Exam Proper: The actual exam is normally during April. The date will be known very soon after the registration is closed.
Result Release: You should expect your result in 48 hours of your exams.
Post-UTME: Schools will then start screening themselves after the result has been published.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it possible to switch courses or universities?
Yes. JAMB gives you an opportunity to change the course or institution with the release of the results. But you will pay a fee for it.
2. What would happen to me if I lost my SIM card after receiving the profile code?
To reset your profile, you will be required to get the SIM card or call the JAMB and get it done.
3. Can I be registered on a temporary NIN slip?
Yes, provided that the slip contains your 11-digit NIN legibly printed.
4. Will I use the same email I had used in the JAMB last year?
Yes, however, it is better to use a new email when you are registering again to prevent the confusion.
5. Is the mock exam compulsory?
No. It is optional. But it will definitely help you towards that actual JAMB exam.
6. What happens if there is a mistake made when I’m registering?
If you are willing to pay a fee, some errors can be successful fixed. You can fix some errors like your name or birthdate.
7. Can someone who is not in Nigeria register?
No. You need to be present in a recognized CBT center of Nigeria.
Conclusion
The registration date of JAMB 2026 is not merely a date in the calendar.
Your next major life step is about to begin. Your next steps should be to get all of your paperwork ready, pick a course carefully, and register as soon as possible now that you are aware of the official dates. The information is with you. The time to act is now. Don’t hold off. Avoid guesswork.
By being mindful of the JAMB 2026 registration date, you can take the first step toward your future. Your future self will be grateful for it.
Peter
