The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially commenced the 2026 Direct Entry (DE) registration, providing another opportunity for qualified candidates seeking admission into 200-level programmes in Nigerian tertiary institutions. The registration exercise comes as thousands of prospective students continue preparations for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
According to JAMB, Direct Entry registration is conducted exclusively at its state and zonal offices nationwide, while UTME candidates are expected to complete their registration only through approved Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres and accredited registration points. The board has repeatedly advised applicants to avoid unauthorized agents and to rely only on official registration channels.
Direct Entry Registration Begins Nationwide
The Direct Entry programme is designed for candidates who already possess qualifications such as the National Diploma (ND), Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE), Higher National Diploma (HND), IJMB, JUPEB, or other recognized advanced-level certificates. Successful applicants may gain admission directly into the second year (200 level) of eligible university programmes, subject to the admission requirements of their chosen institutions.
JAMB announced that the sale of Direct Entry application documents commenced in March 2026. To accommodate more applicants, the board later extended the registration deadline to May 8, 2026, giving eligible candidates additional time to complete the process.
Key Requirements for Direct Entry Applicants
Prospective candidates are expected to:
- Possess a recognized Direct Entry qualification.
- Have the required O’Level credits relevant to their chosen course.
- Complete biometric verification at designated JAMB offices.
- Present valid academic credentials during registration.
- Ensure all information provided is accurate and verifiable.
JAMB has warned that any falsification of credentials or irregularities discovered during the admission process could lead to disqualification.
UTME Candidates Intensify Preparations
While Direct Entry registration is underway, thousands of candidates preparing for the 2026 UTME are stepping up their studies ahead of the examination.
The UTME remains Nigeria’s primary entrance examination for admission into universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and other tertiary institutions. Candidates are tested in four subjects, including the compulsory Use of English, with subject combinations determined by their intended course of study.
Education experts continue to encourage candidates to:
- Study the official JAMB syllabus.
- Practice using Computer-Based Test (CBT) platforms.
- Verify subject combinations before registration.
- Register only through approved centres.
- Keep all registration documents safely.
JAMB Reaffirms Commitment to Transparent Admissions
JAMB has consistently introduced measures aimed at improving the credibility of Nigeria’s admission process through enhanced biometric verification, digital monitoring, and stricter compliance with admission guidelines.
The board also recently approved minimum admission benchmark scores for tertiary institutions during its annual policy meeting, while reiterating that institutions retain the authority to set their own admission criteria above the national minimum where applicable.
What Candidates Should Do Next
Prospective Direct Entry candidates are advised to complete their registration before the deadline and ensure all supporting documents are valid and complete.
Meanwhile, UTME candidates should continue preparing diligently by focusing on the official syllabus, taking mock examinations where available, and staying updated through JAMB’s official communication channels.
Conclusion
The commencement of the 2026 Direct Entry registration marks another important phase in Nigeria’s tertiary admission process. With UTME preparations also gathering momentum, prospective students are encouraged to follow official guidelines, avoid fraudulent registration practices, and complete every stage of the admission process within the stipulated timelines.
For many candidates, careful preparation and compliance with JAMB’s requirements will be crucial in securing admission into their preferred institutions.
