Board fixes January 26 start date for forms, introduces age eligibility benchmark for candidates nationwide
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially announced the commencement of the sale of forms for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE), with registration scheduled to begin on January 26, 2026. The examination body also released key timelines for registration and the conduct of the examinations, providing early clarity for prospective candidates and their guardians.
In a statement issued by the Board, JAMB confirmed that the 2026 UTME will follow its established schedule, with candidates expected to complete registration within the stipulated window ahead of the examination period. The Board emphasized the importance of early registration, advising applicants to adhere strictly to guidelines to avoid disqualification or last-minute challenges.
JAMB further clarified the eligibility criteria for candidates, placing particular emphasis on age requirements. According to the Board, only candidates who will be at least 16 years old by September 30, 2026, will generally be considered eligible to apply. The policy, JAMB explained, is aimed at ensuring academic maturity and readiness for tertiary education.
The Board reiterated that the age benchmark would be enforced alongside other admission requirements, urging candidates and parents to take note before proceeding with registration. It also advised candidates to obtain forms only through approved channels to prevent fraud and misinformation.
JAMB assured stakeholders of its commitment to a transparent and seamless examination process, noting that further details on registration procedures, examination dates, and modalities would be communicated through official channels. The announcement marks the formal beginning of the 2026 admission cycle, as thousands of candidates across the country prepare for entry into Nigerian tertiary institutions.
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