2026 UTME/DE registration is expected to start in January. As preparations continue, JAMB has released advance guidelines for candidates ahead of the registration exercise. The process is expected to follow a similar pattern to last year with a significant update: Candidates are required to declare their current admission status at the time of registration; whether they are already enrolled in a university or not.
For candidates taking the upcoming exam, this post will guide you through the important steps you need to take as we await the start of registration. To get instant updates from JAMB or your chosen institutions, download the Myschool app for both Your Android device or Your iPhone/iOS device or you can join JAMB 2026 WhatsApp group and WhatsApp groups for your school of intention.
1. Get your National Identification Number (NIN).
National Identification Number (NIN) remains a mandatory requirement for all UTME/DE candidates. Candidates who do not currently have a NIN should contact an NIMC approved enrollment center without delay. We have previously shared a step by step guide on how to get your NIN. If you need it, refer to this link: NIN Application Guidelines for detailed instructions.
2. Make sure you have a registered phone number to create a profile code
Before registration, you must generate a profile code by sending your NIN through your registered phone number to the short code provided by JAMB. Make sure you have a registered phone number for this process. All future SMS updates from JAMB will be sent to this number, so make sure it is your personal number or a phone number that you have easy access to. Check out this link: Generate your JAMB 2026 Registration Profile Code for detailed instructions on how to generate your profile code.
3. Set up a free email address
Your email address serves as a JAMB profile backup in case you lose access to your phone number. This is a must Provide an email address during registration. Email setup is quick and free. We recommend using Gmail, which is easily accessible gmail.com.
4. Decide on the course you want to study
This is the best time to choose the course you want to study. This decision requires careful consideration, so don’t wait until registration begins. Choose a course that you are passionate about and have academic ability. Make sure you consider a second choice course as this may improve your chances of admission and you will be required to fill it in at the time of enrolment.
5. Choose the school you want to apply to and choose your course
Likewise, decide which school you want to apply to before you start enrolling. Consider factors such as whether the institution offers the course you want, admission requirements, school fees and location. For a higher chance of success, consider a reserve option such as a polytechnic or a college of education as they are required when filling the JAMB registration form. To know more about this, read 5 things UTME candidates should consider before choosing an institution.
6. Know your subject combinations
Each course has a specific set of subjects required for admission. It is important to choose the right subject combination for your chosen course and institution. Many students make the mistake of choosing the wrong subjects, which can jeopardize their chances of admission. use the JAMB Brochure Check the correct set of subjects before registration.
7. Seek guidance if needed
If you are unsure about choosing a course, institution or subject combination, don’t hesitate to ask for guidance. You can use the “Ask a Question” section on our website or mobile/desktop software where a community of experts will provide helpful answers. Alternatively, join the JAMB 2026 WhatsApp group for instant advice and answers to your questions. Join here.
8. Read the registration instructions
The registration process is mainly done in 3 stages, namely:
Profile Code Generation → E-PIN Sale from Authorized Channels eg Banks → Registration at JAMB Approved CBT Center
Important tips:
- Correct any issues with your NIN and bio data (name, date of birth, gender, state of origin, etc.) at NIMC and confirm that the changes are reflected before registration.
- Make sure your GSM number and email are unique and functional. They must not be exchanged, shared or reused for other candidates.
- If you have biometric problems during registration, please contact your nearest JAMB office. Do not allow any CBT center to force you to register.
- Make sure dual screen is used during registration and confirm that your passport photo and biometrics are correctly registered. Also make sure to check the details and ensure that all information is correct before final submission by the registrar at the center.
9. Start preparing for the exam
Start your study preparation now. Remember, it’s not just about training hard; it is about smart learning. Many questions in UTME are repeated from past exams, so it is important to practice past questions. We personally recommend Myschool JAMB CBT Mobile App (for Android) or Myschool JAMB CBT Software (for PCs), both of which contain over 60,000 past questions and answers.
For schools, institutions and educational centers
Now is the time for schools, institutions and training centers to set up their CBT facilities and become JAMB CBT agents or training centers to help students prepare for the upcoming exams. For more information on how to get started, click here.
When UTME registration begins, we will provide detailed step-by-step instructions to ensure the registration process. Stay tuned and keep preparing!
Until then, stay tuned and ready for success!