The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has reassured Nigerians that there is no plan to increase the cost of application forms for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE).
According to the board, fees for UTME and DE have not been increased in the last nine years. It added that under the current administration, registration costs have even been reduced to ease the financial burden on candidates and their families.
In its Weekly Bulletin obtained on Monday, JAMB explained that any future adjustment in fees would only be considered if it becomes absolutely necessary to preserve the integrity and quality of the examination process.
The board noted that this approach aligns with the directive of President Bola Tinubu, conveyed through the Minister of Education, that JAMB’s operations should reflect the administration’s human-face policies and take into account the prevailing economic realities facing Nigerian households.
“This clarification is provided to properly guide members of the public who wish to plan ahead for the education of their children, as the cost implication for the 2026 exercise remains largely the same as that of the previous year,” JAMB stated.
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Parents and guardians were advised to make early preparations and ensure that their wards register within the stipulated period, stressing that the registration window will not be extended once it opens.
“Despite this downward review of fees, the Board has continued to operate efficiently and prudently, resulting in substantial remittances to the Federal Government over the years,” the board said.
JAMB further reiterated its commitment to fairness, transparency, and affordability, while maintaining global best practices in the conduct of its examinations.
The board also cautioned candidates planning to register for UTME and DE to confirm the accuracy of their National Identification Number (NIN) details before creating their registration profiles.
“Candidates are strongly advised to first verify that their National Identification Number details are accurate and correctly captured before initiating profile creation. Incorrect NIN information could result in avoidable challenges during registration and the examination process. Candidates are therefore advised to take personal responsibility for the accuracy of their details from the start, as not all requests for corrections may be accommodated,” JAMB warned.
Meanwhile, JAMB announced that the sale of forms for the 2026 UTME will commence on Friday, January 31, 2026, and end on Saturday, March 8, 2026.
Stay informed and plan ahead for the 2026 UTME and Direct Entry registration. Get the latest verified updates, expert education insights, and timely guidance for parents and candidates. Visit: LouisaOlaniyi.com.ng for more education news and resources.
