As the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration continues, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued clear directives on the JAMB registration deadline for 2026 and what candidates should expect. With the exercise now underway, understanding the official timeline, key requirements, implications of missing the deadline, and how to register properly is crucial for every aspiring university, polytechnic, or college of education student in Nigeria.
This article breaks down everything you need to know about the JAMB registration deadline for 2026, including the official closing date, why there will be no extension, JAMB registration e-PIN, and practical tips to complete your registration on time.
2026 JAMB UTME Registration Deadline — Official Dates
For the 2026 UTME cycle, JAMB has published the following key registration dates:
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Start of Registration: January 26, 2026
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Sale of ePIN Ends: February 26, 2026
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Registration Closes: February 28, 2026
These deadlines are part of the official JAMB calendar and have been communicated through the Board’s weekly bulletin and official channels. Candidates are advised to take note that the registration window closes firmly on February 28, 2026, and no extension will be granted.
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What Does the Deadline Mean?
The JAMB registration deadline refers to the last day candidates can complete their UTME registration and have their details captured in the Board’s system. Completing registration entails:
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Purchasing a valid ePIN before the ePIN sales cutoff (February 26).
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Submit accurate personal information and academic data.
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Visit an accredited JAMB CBT registration centre to finalize your registration.
If you fail to do these before the closing date, your registration will not be captured, and you will be ineligible to sit for the 2026 UTME. There will be no reopening of the portal or a grace period once the deadline passes.
Why JAMB Refuses to Extend the Registration Deadline
JAMB has reiterated that there will be no extension of the 2026 UTME registration deadline under any circumstances. This stern position is based on several operational factors:
1. Fixed Academic Calendar
JAMB’s UTME timeline is synchronized with other educational bodies and downstream activities such as:
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Post-UTME screening by universities
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Examination scheduling
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Results processing
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Admissions exercises
Any extension to the registration period would disrupt these linked timelines, affecting candidates and institutions alike.
2. Consistency with Prior Policies
This approach mirrors prior years where JAMB maintained deadlines without extensions — for example, the 2025 UTME registration closed on March 8 with no extension, despite calls from candidates.
3. Countering Last-Minute Rush and Malpractice
JAMB has also warned against deliberately delaying registration until the final days in anticipation of an extension — a recurring pattern in past years. The Board noted that this behavior will not be entertained in 2026, as it can facilitate malpractice and administrative strain.
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JAMB Registration E-pin Deadline
According to JAMB, the sale of JAMB registration ePIN ends February 26, 2026. Candidates are advised to buy epin before the deadline.
Current Registration Statistics
According to the latest reports, approximately one million candidates have already registered for the 2026 UTME. This figure demonstrates a strong uptake but also highlights that many potential candidates may still be yet to complete their registration before the deadline.
The Board has expressed concern about the low turnout at some accredited registration centres and is urging candidates to register early to avoid a last-minute rush.
Consequences of Missing the JAMB Registration Deadline 2026
Failing to register by the deadline — February 28, 2026 — means:
You Are Ineligible to Sit for the 2026 UTME
Once the portal closes, JAMB will not accept late registrations. Candidates who miss the deadline will have to wait for the next UTME cycle to apply.
Loss of Preparation Time
Late registration compresses preparation time for the exam and Post-UTME screenings, putting candidates at a competitive disadvantage.
Administrative Bottleneck
Attempting to register close to the deadline increases the likelihood of:
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System downtime
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Long queues
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Submission errors
All of which can compromise timely registration.
Step-by-Step Guide to Register Before the Deadline
To avoid missing the deadline and ensure your registration is completed, follow these steps:
1. Purchase Your ePIN Early
The ePIN is required to start your registration, and its sale ends two days before the registration deadline — on February 26, 2026.
2. Generate Your Profile Code
Before visiting a CBT centre, generate your profile code using your National Identification Number (NIN) — this cannot be changed once entered.
3. Visit an Accredited CBT Centre
Only accredited JAMB CBT registration centres can finalize your registration. Ensure the centre is approved to avoid invalid submissions.
4. Complete Your Registration Template
Fill out the UTME registration template accurately. Mistakes can delay or invalidate your registration.
5. Confirm Submission Before February 28
Double-check that your registration is captured in the JAMB portal before the deadline expires. Late submissions are not accepted.
Tips to Avoid Last-Minute Stress
Even though the deadline is firm, candidates can take proactive steps to ensure smooth registration:
Register Well Before the Deadline
Don’t wait until the final weeks — complete your registration early to avoid queue-related issues and system slowdowns.
Prepare Your Documents in Advance
Have your NIN, valid ID, and educational credentials ready before visiting a centre.
Monitor Official JAMB Updates
Regularly check the official JAMB portal and social media for updates on registration and any important notices.
Avoid False Information
Beware of misleading advice from unofficial sources promising deadline extensions — JAMB has reiterated that no extension will be granted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the final registration deadline for the 2026 UTME?
The official closing date for UTME registration is February 28, 2026. Candidates must complete their registration by this date.
Can I register after February 26 without an ePIN?
No — you must purchase your ePIN on or before February 26, 2026, to proceed with UTME registration.
Will JAMB extend the registration deadline?
No. JAMB has explicitly stated that there will be no extension of the registration period under any circumstances.
Is there any grace period after February 28?
No — once the registration portal closes on February 28, you cannot register for the 2026 UTME.
Conclusion
The JAMB registration deadline for the 2026 UTME is firm and final: candidates must complete their registration on or before February 28, 2026, and purchase their ePINs by February 26, 2026.
JAMB’s refusal to extend the deadline emphasises the need for timely action — late registration will not be accepted and will disqualify you from participating in this year’s examination cycle.
Start early, prepare your documentation, and register well in advance of the closing date to avoid last-minute stress and to ensure your eligibility for the 2026 UTME. Good planning and proactive registration are your best tools for success in this vital national examination.