JAMB 2026: UTME Registration Closes February 28 as Candidates Advised to Avoid Costly Errors

JAMB 2026: UTME Registration Closes February 28 as Candidates Advised to Avoid Costly Errors

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has warned candidates registering for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to complete their registration on time and avoid common mistakes that could affect their admission chances.

Legitdan news report that the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced that registration for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) will officially close on February 28, 2026. The examination body urged candidates to ensure they follow the correct registration procedures to avoid errors that may jeopardise their admission or participation in the examination.

JAMB explained that proper UTME registration is critical, as certain mistakes can prevent candidates from writing the examination, invalidate their registration, or create verification challenges during admission processing.

One of the major issues highlighted is wrong subject combination. Candidates are expected to select subjects that align strictly with their chosen course of study. JAMB noted that no matter how high a candidate scores, admission will not be possible if the subject combination does not meet the course requirements. For example, candidates applying for engineering programmes must register for Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.

The board also cautioned candidates against registering at unauthorised CBT centres. JAMB stressed that only accredited centres are allowed to conduct UTME registration, warning that registrations done at unapproved centres could be invalidated. Candidates were advised to verify the list of JAMB-approved CBT centres available online before proceeding.

Another common mistake identified is the entry of incorrect O’level results. Candidates awaiting their results are expected to select the “awaiting result” option, while those who already have their results must ensure all grades and examination numbers are correctly entered. JAMB warned that guessing or entering incorrect details could lead to verification problems during admission.

JAMB further emphasised the importance of biometric capture, describing it as mandatory for UTME registration. According to the board, candidates whose biometrics are not properly captured will be denied entry into the examination hall. Candidates were advised to ensure their fingerprints are fully and correctly captured during registration.

The board also advised candidates to verify institutions and courses carefully before making their selections. Institutions have different course requirements, and candidates must confirm that their chosen institutions offer their intended courses before finalising their first and second choices.

In addition, JAMB highlighted the issue of NIN data mismatch, stating that all personal details on a candidate’s National Identification Number (NIN) must match their WAEC or NECO records. Any discrepancy in names, date of birth, or spelling could affect registration and admission. Candidates experiencing such issues were advised to visit NIN offices for correction and verification.

JAMB reiterated that timely and accurate registration remains the best way for candidates to avoid unnecessary complications, urging all prospective UTME candidates to complete their registration before the February 28 deadline.

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