The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially commenced the 2026 Direct Entry (DE) registration for candidates seeking admission into Nigerian universities without writing the UTME. Direct Entry allows qualified applicants with advanced academic qualifications such as ND, HND, IJMB, or A-Level certificates to gain admission directly into the 200 level.
Many candidates search online for information about JAMB 2026 Direct Entry registration, including the application process, registration deadline, requirements, and the cost of the form. This article explains everything you need to know in simple and clear terms.
This article provides you with a complete guide on JAMB Direct Entry Registration for this year and will help you complete your application.
Has JAMB 2026 Direct Entry Registration Started?
Yes, the JAMB 2026 Direct Entry registration has officially started nationwide. Candidates who want to apply for admission through the Direct Entry programme can now obtain the form and complete their registration.
According to official information, the sale of the Direct Entry e-PIN and registration began Monday, March 2, 2026, and the process will close on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
Candidates are strongly advised to complete their registration before the deadline because the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board rarely extends the registration period.
What Is JAMB Direct Entry?
Direct Entry (DE) is a special admission pathway that allows qualified candidates to gain admission into Nigerian universities without writing the UTME examination.
Instead of starting from 100 level like UTME candidates, Direct Entry applicants are usually admitted directly into 200 level in their chosen university.
This admission route is designed for candidates who already possess higher qualifications, such as:
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National Diploma (ND)
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Higher National Diploma (HND)
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Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE)
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IJMB
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JUPEB
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A-Level certificates
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Bachelor’s degree (in some cases)
Through Direct Entry, candidates can continue their academic journey without repeating basic university courses.
JAMB Cut-Off mark for all Courses
JAMB CBT Centres for all States
Cost of JAMB Direct Entry Form 2026
The cost of the JAMB 2026 Direct Entry registration form is ₦5,700.
This fee covers several components, including:
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JAMB application form
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Registration processing fee
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Reading text fee
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Administrative charges
Candidates must purchase the official JAMB e-PIN before proceeding with the registration process.
It is important to note that registration must be done through official JAMB channels to avoid fraud or invalid applications.
Where to Register for JAMB Direct Entry 2026
Unlike UTME registration, the Direct Entry registration can only be completed at JAMB State or Zonal offices across Nigeria.
Candidates cannot register for Direct Entry through:
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Cyber cafés
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Unauthorized agents
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Private computer centers
Registering at the official JAMB offices helps ensure proper verification of academic qualifications and prevents fraudulent applications.
Requirements for JAMB Direct Entry Registration
Before applying for Direct Entry admission, candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements.
O’Level Requirements
Candidates must have at least five credit passes in relevant subjects at O’Level. These results may come from:
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WAEC
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NECO
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NABTEB
The five credits must include English Language and other relevant subjects related to the chosen course.
These results must be obtained in not more than two sittings.
Advanced Academic Qualifications
In addition to O’Level results, candidates must also possess at least one advanced qualification such as:
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National Diploma (ND)
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Higher National Diploma (HND)
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Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE)
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IJMB certificate
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JUPEB certificate
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A-Level certificate
These qualifications are required because Direct Entry candidates start from 200 level.
National Identification Number (NIN)
The National Identification Number (NIN) is mandatory for all JAMB registrations.
Candidates must send their NIN by SMS to generate their JAMB profile code before beginning the registration process.
Without a valid NIN, registration cannot proceed.
How to Register for JAMB Direct Entry 2026
Candidates should follow the steps below carefully to complete their Direct Entry registration successfully.
Step 1: Obtain Your National Identification Number (NIN)
Visit the nearest NIMC registration center to obtain your NIN if you do not already have one.
The NIN is required to generate your JAMB profile code.
Step 2: Generate Your JAMB Profile Code
Send your NIN via SMS to either 55019 or 66019 using the following format:
NIN 12345678901
You will receive your JAMB profile code, which is needed to purchase the e-PIN.
Step 3: Purchase the JAMB Direct Entry e-PIN
Once you receive your profile code, you can purchase the Direct Entry e-PIN from authorized vendors such as:
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Approved banks
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Online payment platforms
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JAMB offices
The e-PIN is required before you can complete your registration.
Step 4: Visit a JAMB State or Zonal Office
After obtaining your e-PIN, visit the nearest JAMB State or Zonal office to complete your registration.
During the registration process:
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Your biometric data will be captured
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Your academic credentials will be verified
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Your passport photograph will be uploaded
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Your chosen course and institution will be selected
Step 5: Collect Your Registration Slip
After completing the process, you will receive a registration printout.
This slip contains important information such as:
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JAMB registration number
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Personal details
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Chosen institution
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Course of study
Keep this document safe because it will be required during the admission process.
Documents Required for Direct Entry Registration
Candidates must present the following documents during registration:
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O’Level result (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB)
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Advanced qualification certificate (ND, NCE, IJMB, etc.)
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Passport photograph
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National Identification Number (NIN)
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JAMB profile code
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e-PIN payment receipt
Providing correct and valid documents is essential for successful registration.
Important Tips for Direct Entry Candidates
To avoid mistakes during registration, candidates should keep these tips in mind:
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Register early to avoid the last-minute rush
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Ensure all certificates are genuine
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Double-check personal information before submission
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Use only official JAMB registration centers
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Keep all registration documents safe
Following these tips will help ensure a smooth application process.
Advantages of JAMB Direct Entry Admission
Direct Entry offers several advantages to qualified candidates.
Some benefits include:
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Direct admission into 200 level
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Shorter time to complete a degree
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Opportunity for ND and NCE holders to upgrade to university degrees
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Access to more academic opportunities
Because of these advantages, many students prefer the Direct Entry admission route.
JAMB Direct Entry Registration Deadline 2026
Candidates should take note of the official deadline.
The 2026 JAMB Direct Entry registration will close on April 25, 2026.
After this date, the registration portal will be closed, and no further applications will be accepted.
Applicants are therefore advised to complete their registration before the deadline.
Final Thoughts
The JAMB 2026 Direct Entry registration provides an important opportunity for candidates with advanced academic qualifications to gain admission into Nigerian universities without writing the UTME.
With the registration already ongoing, candidates should prepare all necessary documents and complete their application before the deadline.
Understanding the requirements, registration steps, and deadlines will help applicants avoid mistakes and increase their chances of securing admission through the Direct Entry programme.
If you plan to apply for Direct Entry in 2026, start your registration early and ensure all information provided during the process is accurate.
If you have questions to ask, please drop them in the comment section, and our team will respond to you immediately.