JAMB Direct Entry: Requirements, Fee and Registration Process

Update (March 2026): JAMB 2026 Direct Entry registration is open and the e-PIN vending and registration window will close on Saturday, 25th April, 2026. Registration is restricted to State and Zonal JAMB offices nationwide.

JAMB Direct Entry (DE) is the admission route for candidates with approved advanced qualifications who want to enter university beyond the regular UTME path. This guide explains who qualifies, what documents to prepare, and how to complete the process correctly.

2026 Direct Entry Key Facts

• Registration status: Open
• Registration deadline: Saturday, 25th April, 2026
• Registration fee: ₦5,700
• Where to register: State and Zonal JAMB offices nationwide

Before You Buy the e-PIN

JAMB expects each candidate to use one personal phone number throughout the DE process. The same line is tied to your profile code and later communication from the Board.

• Use one personal SIM only: Do not share it with another candidate.
• Send your NIN by SMS: Text NIN 00123456789 to 55019 or 66019 using the number you want attached to your profile.
• Keep the number active: JAMB says candidates who bought a SIM only for registration should use their telco's Keep My Number option so the line is not recycled.
• Save your profile code: The 10-character profile code sent to your phone is required before you can buy the e-PIN.

Who Can Apply for Direct Entry?

Direct Entry is open to candidates with recognised advanced qualifications, including A-Level, ND, NCE, IJMB, JUPEB, HND, first degrees, and other approved equivalents.

• O'Level requirement: At least five credit passes in not more than two sittings
• Advanced qualification: A recognised DE qualification relevant to your intended course
• Verification: Awarding institutions must forward verification to JAMB before processing can be completed

Details You Must Prepare Before Registration

• Registration or matriculation number from the institution where the qualification was obtained
• Subject details of the qualification being used for DE
• Name of the awarding institution
• Affiliated institution actually attended, where applicable
• Year of graduation or completion

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Step 1: Generate your profile code

1. Use your personal phone number.
2. Send your NIN by SMS to 55019 or 66019.
3. Wait for the profile code sent back to the same line.

Step 2: Buy the e-PIN

1. Present your profile code at an approved outlet.
2. Pay the DE registration fee of ₦5,700.
3. Receive the e-PIN on the same phone number used for profile creation.

Step 3: Complete registration at an approved JAMB office

1. Visit a State or Zonal JAMB office.
2. Present your profile code and e-PIN.
3. Complete biometric capture and photograph physically.
4. Upload your qualification details and required documents.

Step 4: Print and monitor your records

1. Print your DE registration slip after submission.
2. Monitor your profile through the JAMB e-Facility portal.
3. Check the official JAMB portal for current registration notices and post-registration services.

Important Rules Candidates Should Not Ignore

• No multiple registrations: JAMB warns that duplicate applications can invalidate the registration.
• No group registration: DE registration should not be done through unofficial bulk or proxy arrangements.
• Awaiting-result limits apply: Candidates must comply with JAMB's upload and verification conditions before admission processing.
• Biometric capture is compulsory: Final processing is not complete until your biometrics and photograph are captured physically.

Final Advice

Prepare your qualification details before leaving for the JAMB office. Small mistakes in institution name, year of graduation, or registration number can delay verification and admission processing later.

If you are also planning for UTME or helping a younger relative prepare, use Ulearngo CBT practice for timed exam preparation.