JAMB Direct Entry: Requirements, Fee and Registration Process

Update (March 2026): JAMB 2026 Direct Entry registration is now open and will close on Saturday, 25th April, 2026. Registration can only be done at State and Zonal JAMB offices nationwide.

JAMB Direct Entry (DE) allows qualified candidates to seek admission into higher levels without sitting regular UTME in the same way as first-time UTME applicants. This guide explains who qualifies, what documents are required, and how to register correctly.

What is JAMB Direct Entry?

Direct Entry is an admission route for candidates with recognized advanced qualifications such as A-Levels, ND, NCE, IJMB, JUPEB, HND, and related credentials accepted by institutions and JAMB policy.

2026 Direct Entry Key Dates

• Registration Status: Now Open
• Registration Deadline: Saturday, 25th April, 2026
• Registration Fee: ₦5,700
• Where to Register: State and Zonal JAMB offices only

Requirements/Key Information

• Accepted qualifications: A-Level, OND/ND, NCE, IJMB, JUPEB, HND, First Degrees, and equivalent advanced certificates.
• O'Level requirement: Minimum of 5 O'Level credit passes at not more than two sittings, with at least two at Principal or Advanced level.
• DE registration fee: ₦5,700
• Official platform: Use JAMB e-Facility Portal and approved CBT centres.
• Pre-verification matters: JAMB says awarding institutions are required to forward verification before Direct Entry registration can be completed.
• Where final processing happens: Biometric capture and completion are restricted to JAMB offices and approved registration points.

Details You Must Have Ready Before Registration

• Previous school registration or matriculation number: This should match the qualification you are using for Direct Entry.
• Subjects of qualification: Prepare the exact subjects on your A-Level, ND, NCE, IJMB, JUPEB, HND, or degree record.
• Awarding institution: Enter the institution that issued the qualification correctly.
• Affiliated institution actually attended: Include this where applicable.
• Year of graduation: Keep the exact year ready before you begin biometric registration.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Step 1: Generate Your Profile Code

1. Use a unique personal phone number/SIM for registration.
2. Send your NIN via SMS to 55019 or 66019.
3. You will receive a 10-character Profile Code.

Step 2: Purchase e-PIN

1. Visit any approved financial outlet or bank.
2. Present your Profile Code.
3. Pay ₦5,700 and collect your e-PIN.

Step 3: Complete Registration

1. Visit a JAMB-accredited CBT centre or a State/Zonal JAMB office.
2. Present your Profile Code and e-PIN.
3. Complete biometric capture and photograph.
4. Upload your credentials and complete registration.

Step 4: Print Slips and Monitor Status

1. Print your DE registration slip after submission.
2. Track admission status through JAMB e-Facility and your institution portal.

Important Notes

• Upload accurate qualification details and avoid name or date mismatches across your records.
• If your DE data needs correction, use official correction channels early to avoid screening issues.
• JAMB says candidates without uploaded and verifiable qualifying results will not be processed for admission.
• For support and complaints, use the JAMB support portal.

Official Reference

JAMB's 2026 bulletin confirms that Direct Entry registration began on Monday, March 2, 2026, closes on Saturday, April 25, 2026, costs ₦5,700, and is restricted to State and Zonal JAMB offices. See the official JAMB bulletin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can ND holders apply for Direct Entry?

Yes, ND and similar recognized qualifications are part of common DE pathways, subject to institution and course requirements.

Is DE registration fee the same as UTME fee?

No. JAMB DE registration fee is ₦5,700, separate from the UTME registration fee.

Can I process DE entirely by myself online?

No, final processing requires visiting a JAMB-accredited centre or State/Zonal office for biometric capture and formal validation.

Where can I register for Direct Entry?

Registration can only be done at State and Zonal JAMB offices nationwide, or at approved CBT centres.