JAMB warns candidates to complete 2026 UTME registration by February 26, stressing no extension will be granted and late registration is discouraged

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, has reminded prospective candidates that registration for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, UTME, will close on February 26, 2026.

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In a weekly bulletin released on Monday, the board urged candidates to complete registration immediately, stressing that the deadline will not be extended under any circumstance.

JAMB expressed concern over low turnout at several accredited registration centres, highlighting a recurring pattern of candidates delaying registration until the final days and subsequently demanding extensions.

“This recurring pattern, where candidates deliberately delay registration until the final days and subsequently begin to agitate for an extension, will not be entertained in 2026,” the board stated.

The board warned against misleading advice from individuals masquerading as tutorial centre operators, which it said often encourages last-minute registration to facilitate examination malpractice.

Registration for the 2026 UTME commenced on January 26 and is scheduled to last for five weeks, with approximately one million candidates already expressing interest and procuring their ePINs.

JAMB emphasised that its operational calendar aligns with other examination bodies, making extension of the registration period impracticable.

Candidates are therefore urged to register early and disregard rumours suggesting otherwise.

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The board concluded by stating it will not be responsible for candidates who fail to act within the stipulated timeline.