Based on previous JAMB registration timelines and speculations, the 2026 JAMB registration is expected to begin around late January to early February 2026, and run through late February or early March 2026.

This projection follows the pattern of the last few years, where the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) usually opens registration within the first quarter of the year - giving candidates about 4-6 weeks to complete the process.

What We Observed from Previous Years

Let’s take a quick look at the registration patterns to understand the trend better:

2025 UTME: Registration began on Monday, February 3rd, 2025, and ended on Saturday, March 8th, 2025.
2024 UTME: Registration ran from January 15th, 2024, to February 26th, 2024.
2023 UTME: Registration took place from January 14th, 2023, to February 22nd, 2023.

After registration, mock exams usually hold about 2–3 weeks later, while the main UTME typically starts around late April or early May.

What You Should Do Now While Waiting

Even though registration hasn’t started yet, you can use this time wisely. Here’s what you should focus on:

1. Get Your NIN Ready
Ensure your National Identification Number (NIN) is active and correctly linked to your name, phone number, and date of birth. If any information is wrong, correct it early at a verified NIMC center.



2. Have Your Own Phone Number and Email
You’ll need your number to generate your JAMB profile code and for all official communications from JAMB. Create a personal email you can remember - it’ll be used for JAMB CAPS and other admission updates.

3. Prepare the Right Documents
You’ll need your O’Level results (WAEC, NECO, or GCE) and NIN slip. Keep them organized so you can register without stress once the portal opens.

4. Decide on Your Course and Institution
Don’t wait until registration begins to choose a course or school. Research now - know their cut-off marks, requirements, and subject combinations.
You can also compare federal, state, and private universities to know where your score can fit best.

5. Attend Tutorials and Study Smart
Use this waiting period to prepare intensively for the exam. Join a reputable JAMB tutorial, download CBT practice apps like SchoolNGR.com, and test yourself regularly.

6. Avoid Fake News and Rumours
Many pages will claim that JAMB registration has started - don’t fall for it. Always confirm information directly from the official JAMB website (www.jamb.gov.ng) or trusted educational news platforms.

7. Register Only at Approved CBT Centres
When registration begins, make sure you visit a JAMB-accredited CBT centre. These centres are authorized to carry out proper biometrics, fingerprint capture, and valid registration.

Avoid Common Mistakes

- Using someone else’s phone number or email for registration.
- Submitting wrong date of birth or mismatched NIN details.
- Registering at unauthorized cyber cafés.
- Waiting until the last week to register - the system often gets congested.
Early registration gives you peace of mind and enough time to make corrections if needed.

Final Note

While we wait for JAMB to officially announce the registration date for the 2026 UTME, stay prepared and stay alert. Make sure your documents are complete, your NIN is verified, and your study plan is consistent. The earlier you start getting ready, the smoother your JAMB 2026 journey will be.

#Stay informed. Stay smart. Stay ready.