The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has warned candidates planning to register for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) to ensure that their National Identification Number (NIN) details are correct before creating their registration profiles.
The warning was contained in JAMB’s Weekly Bulletin, obtained on Monday, where the examination body stressed that incorrect NIN information could lead to avoidable challenges during registration and the examination process.
According to the board, candidates are expected to take full responsibility for the accuracy of their personal data from the outset, as opportunities for corrections are often limited.
“Candidates are strongly advised to first verify that their National Identification Number details are accurate and correctly captured before initiating profile creation. Incorrect NIN information could result in avoidable challenges during registration and the examination process,” JAMB stated.
Limited Opportunity for Data Corrections
JAMB explained that while correction windows are sometimes opened, they are often constrained by technical and administrative issues, meaning not all requests can be accommodated.
The board urged candidates to ensure that their names, date of birth, gender, and other biodata are consistent across all relevant databases, especially with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
“Candidates are therefore advised to take personal responsibility for the accuracy of their details from the start, as not all requests for corrections may be accommodated,” the board added.
JAMB also noted that registration for the 2026 UTME and Direct Entry could commence at any time, advising candidates to use the period ahead to verify and harmonise their personal information.
No Plan to Increase 2026 UTME, Direct Entry Fees
In a related development, JAMB has dismissed concerns about a possible increase in the cost of registration for the 2026 UTME and Direct Entry examinations.
The board assured parents, guardians, and prospective candidates that there is no plan to hike application fees, noting that it has not increased the cost of UTME or DE forms in the last nine years.
In fact, JAMB disclosed that registration fees have been reviewed downward during the period of the current administration.
“This clarification is provided to properly guide members of the public who wish to plan ahead for the education of their children, as the cost implication for the 2026 exercise remains largely the same as that of the previous year,” the board stated.
Alignment With Federal Government Policy
JAMB explained that its decision to maintain affordable fees aligns with the directive of President Bola Tinubu, communicated through the Minister of Education, that government agencies should reflect human-face policies and consider the economic realities facing Nigerian families.
Despite keeping fees low, the board said it has continued to operate efficiently, resulting in substantial remittances to the Federal Government over the years.
According to JAMB, this underscores its commitment to accountability, transparency, and prudent financial management while sustaining global best practices in the conduct of examinations.
2026 UTME Registration Dates
JAMB announced that the 2026 UTME form will be on sale from Friday, January 31, 2026, to Saturday, March 8, 2026.
The board urged parents and candidates to make early arrangements, stressing that the registration period will not be extended once it begins.
“JAMB remains committed to fairness, transparency, and affordability while sustaining global best practices in the conduct of its examinations,” the board concluded.
