The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially released the schedule for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) registration and examination activities. Every prospective candidate is strongly advised to take note of these important dates and prepare adequately, as missing any stage may affect admission chances.
Below is the complete timeline for all major JAMB activities for 2026:
1. UTME Registration:
- January 31st – March 5th, 2026:
This is the official period for purchasing the UTME form and completing registration. Candidates must ensure their names, subjects, institutions, NIN details, and personal information are correctly entered at accredited CBT centres.
2. Direct Entry (DE) Registration
- March 10th – April 7th, 2026: This window is strictly for candidates applying for direct entry into 200-level programs in Nigerian universities. Applicants must ensure their A-level certificates, OND, HND, NCE, or JUPEB credentials are ready and verifiable.
3. Mock Examination Slip Reprint
- April 5th, 2026 – Candidates registered for the mock exam must reprint their slips to know their exam centre, date, and time.
4. JAMB Mock Examination
- April 10th, 2026 – The mock exam is optional but highly recommended. It helps candidates become familiar with the Computer-Based Testing (CBT) environment, reduces exam anxiety, and improves time management.
5. Main Exam Slip Reprint
- April 18th, 2026 – All UTME candidates must reprint their exam slips to confirm their examination schedule, venue, and timing. Failure to do so may cause confusion on exam day.
6. UTME Main Examination
- April 25th – May 5th, 2026: This is the main examination period. Candidates must strictly adhere to their exam schedule, arrive early at the venue, follow exam rules, and come with the required documents.
7. Release of Results
- May 7th, 2026 – Results are expected to be released shortly after the examination. Candidates will be able to check via the JAMB portal or SMS as directed.
8. Compulsory JAMB 2026 Novel
- For the Use of English examination, JAMB has approved the following compulsory novel:
“The Lekki Headmaster” — Kabir Alabi Garba
Candidates must study the novel thoroughly because questions will be drawn from it in the comprehension and literature sections of the UTME.
Important Tips for All Candidates
To ensure a smooth and successful JAMB experience, candidates should:
- Register only at accredited JAMB CBT centres.
- Use a valid and active email & phone number.
- Keep all registration documents safe.
- Start studying early and follow a personal reading timetable.
- Participate in the mock exam if possible.
- Regularly check JAMB official channels for authentic updates.
- Avoid relying on exam malpractice or “expo” as JAMB systems are now highly secured.
Final Advice
Success in JAMB requires early preparation, accurate information, and discipline. Candidates who plan ahead always perform better. Take these dates seriously, stay focused, and remain confident.
Portal: https://www.jamb.gov.ng
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