2026 UTME registration begins, how much it costs and what candidates must know

JAMB has opened registration for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination. Registration for UTME runs from Monday, January 26 to Saturday, February 28, 2026. e-PIN sales began earlier on January 19 and will end on Thursday, February 26. Prospective Direct Entry (DE) candidates will buy DE forms from March 2 to April 25, and DE registration will be done only at JAMB zonal and state offices.

There are three e-PIN options this year. Direct Entry e-PIN costs ₦5,700. UTME only, without the mock test, costs ₦7,200. UTME with the optional mock test costs ₦8,700. JAMB says those prices cover application and centre charges so candidates know what to expect at purchase.

Here is what the fees include so you do not get surprised: the UTME/DE application fee (₦3,500), reading text (₦1,000), the CBT centre registration service charge (₦700), CBT centre UTME server charge (₦1,500), bank charges (₦500) and the optional mock-UTME centre charge (₦1,500). Candidates can choose the e-PIN that fits their needs.

The actual UTME exam will be held from Thursday, April 16 to Saturday, April 25, 2026. JAMB also set an optional mock UTME date for Saturday, March 28, 2026 for those who buy the mock option. Make sure you book and attend the mock only if you paid for that e-PIN.

Before you register, check your biodata on the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). JAMB will use NIMC data for names and dates of birth, so any correction must be done on the NIMC platform first. JAMB said it will not accept personal corrections outside NIMC.

Register only at JAMB-approved CBT centres, official JAMB offices or professional registration centres. Do not register with unapproved agents. JAMB warned that centers found charging above approved rates, extorting candidates, or using unvetted staff will face licence withdrawal and possible prosecution. Centre operators are also responsible for the actions of their ad hoc staff.

If you plan to register from outside Nigeria, the same UTME timeline applies and you must follow the approved registration channels. Keep proof of payment and your e-PIN details, and print any confirmation JAMB issues after successful registration. If you face problems, contact JAMB through its official communications channels for help.