JAMB says registration closes February 26, no extension

• Registration for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) closes on February 26
• Candidates are urged to complete registration promptly; the deadline will not be extended
• About 1 million candidates have indicated interest so far

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has reminded all prospective candidates that registration for the 2026 UTME will close on February 26, 2026. The board warned that the deadline will not be extended under any circumstances.

In a weekly bulletin released on Monday, JAMB expressed concern over the low number of candidates registered at some accredited centres. The board condemned the recurring habit of delaying registration until the last minute and then requesting extensions.

Risks of delaying registration

JAMB cautioned that candidates who delay registration may be influenced by examination cheats or unscrupulous individuals masquerading as tutorial centre operators. According to the board, these tactics are often designed to facilitate the mass movement of candidates, which could encourage malpractice.

Also read: JAMB Exposes Sophisticated Cheating in 2025 UTME

The board noted that the 2026 UTME registration began on January 26 and was scheduled to run for five weeks. Approximately one million candidates have shown interest and procured their ePINs, but they are expected to complete registration promptly.

JAMB advised candidates to register early, avoid last-minute pressure, and ignore any claims that the deadline may be extended. The board emphasised that it will not be responsible for candidates who fail to act within the stipulated period.