JAMB Direct Entry 2026: Requirements, Fee and Registration Process

Update (30 April 2026): The 2026 JAMB Direct Entry registration window has reportedly been extended to Friday, 8 May 2026. The update has been reported by multiple national outlets citing JAMB's Public Communication Adviser, Fabian Benjamin. At the time of review, JAMB's public homepage still displayed the earlier 25 April date, so candidates should confirm current instructions at a JAMB State or Zonal office while completing registration.

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, with the latest reported deadline now Friday, 8 May 2026
• Registration fee: ₦5,700
• Where to register: JAMB State and Zonal offices, Professional Registration Centres, and Professional Testing Centres where JAMB directs candidates
• Best action: Complete registration early and avoid waiting for the final day

Before You Buy the e-PIN

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: If you bought a SIM only for registration, keep it active 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 may need to forward verification to JAMB before processing is completed

Details You Must Prepare Before Registration

• Registration or matriculation number from the institution where your 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

1. Generate your profile code by sending your NIN from your personal phone line.
2. Buy the DE e-PIN through an approved outlet.
3. Visit the appropriate JAMB registration point for biometric capture, photograph, and document upload.
4. Print your DE registration slip after submission.
5. Monitor your profile through the JAMB e-Facility portal.

Important Rules Candidates Should Not Ignore

• No multiple registrations: Duplicate applications can invalidate the registration.
• No proxy registration: Do not hand your details to unofficial agents.
• Biometric capture is compulsory: Final processing is not complete until your biometrics and photograph are captured.
• Check official channels: Use JAMB State or Zonal offices for current notices when a public page is unclear.

Final Advice

Prepare your qualification details before visiting 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 preparing for UTME or helping someone revise, use Ulearngo CBT practice for timed exam preparation.