Demystifying JAMB’s Registration Policy for Current Tertiary Students in the 2026 UTME and Direct Entry Exams

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has recently addressed widespread misconceptions regarding the eligibility of students already enrolled in tertiary institutions to register for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) processes. Contrary to circulating rumors, JAMB affirms that current undergraduates are not barred from participating, provided they adhere to specific registration protocols.

JAMB’s Registration Criteria: What Every Candidate Should Know

It is a common misunderstanding that JAMB restricts registration for UTME or DE to only fresh candidates. In reality, the board permits students currently admitted in universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education to register. The pivotal requirement is full disclosure of one’s existing matriculation status during the registration process. This transparency ensures that candidates do not hold multiple admissions simultaneously, thereby preserving the integrity of the admission system.

Implications of Concealing Current Admission Status

Failing to declare an active admission or enrollment status constitutes a breach of JAMB’s regulations. Candidates who attempt to hide their current academic standing risk severe consequences, including the annulment of both their existing admission and any new admission secured through the UTME or DE exercises. Such measures are in place to deter fraudulent practices and maintain fairness.

Prohibition of Concurrent Admissions: Understanding the Policy

JAMB strictly enforces the national policy that forbids candidates from holding two active admissions at the same time. Upon securing admission through the latest UTME or DE exercise, any previous admission automatically becomes void. This rule ensures that resources are optimally allocated and that the admission process remains equitable for all applicants.

Why JAMB Prioritizes Honest Disclosure

The board’s insistence on transparency is a strategic effort to safeguard the credibility of the admission framework. By mandating candidates to reveal their matriculation status, JAMB can effectively monitor and prevent attempts by individuals to register as fresh candidates despite already being admitted elsewhere. This approach fosters a level playing field and enhances the overall efficiency of the admission process.

Key Registration Timeline for the 2026 UTME

Prospective candidates should be aware that the registration window for the 2026 UTME opens on Friday, January 31, 2026, and closes on Saturday, March 8, 2026. Timely registration within this period is essential to secure a place in the examination and avoid missing out on admission opportunities.

Rising Trends in UTME and Direct Entry Registrations

As Nigeria’s tertiary education landscape continues to expand, the volume of UTME and DE registrants has seen significant growth. For example, the 2024 UTME recorded over 1.9 million candidates, marking a 7% increase compared to the previous year. This surge highlights the necessity for clear, enforceable guidelines to manage the increasing number of applicants effectively.

Illustrative Scenario: Ensuring Compliance Through Transparency

Imagine a student currently enrolled in a polytechnic who intends to transfer to a university via Direct Entry. By openly declaring their current enrollment status during registration, the student aligns with JAMB’s policies, thereby avoiding disqualification. This honest approach not only facilitates a seamless transfer but also upholds the fairness and integrity of the admission process for all candidates.