JAMB Timetable for 2026 UTME Registration and Examination

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially released the 2026 JAMB timetable for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

This timetable outlines all major activities, including e-PIN sales, registration periods, mock examination dates, and the main UTME schedule.

Understanding the 2026 JAMB timetable early helps candidates plan effectively, avoid last-minute rushes, and complete registration without errors.

This page provides a detailed analysis of the 2026 JAMB timetable, highlighting key dates, procedures, eligibility requirements, and important notices candidates must know ahead of time.

JAMB 2026 Timetable

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has released the official timetable for the conduct of the 2026 UTME registration and examination. This timetable serves as a structured guide for all candidates preparing for admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions.

More importantly, the 2026 JAMB timetable ensures uniformity across all accredited CBT centres nationwide. By following the outlined dates, candidates can avoid missed deadlines and registration complications.

Therefore, all UTME aspirants for the 2026/2027 academic session are strongly advised to study this timetable carefully and align their preparation with the approved schedule.

About UTME e-PIN

The UTME e-PIN is the official payment authorization required to register for the UTME at any accredited JAMB CBT centre. Instead of making multiple payments during registration, candidates now complete all payments through the e-PIN system.

In addition, the UTME e-PIN covers essential charges such as the JAMB application fee, CBT registration service, examination service charge, and the prescribed reading text. Consequently, candidates do not need to pay extra fees at the CBT centre once they present a valid e-PIN.

Most importantly, candidates must carefully choose the correct e-PIN category at the point of purchase. Since JAMB does not allow refunds, selecting the wrong e-PIN option may result in unnecessary financial loss.

Types of JAMB UTME e-PIN

There are only two approved types of UTME e-PIN available for the 2026 UTME registration. Each option caters to different candidate preferences regarding the mock examination.

1. UTME e-PIN WITHOUT MOCK: This option is designed for candidates who intend to sit only for the main UTME examination and do not wish to participate in the mock examination.
2. UTME e-PIN WITH MOCK: This option is for candidates who plan to sit for both the UTME mock examination and the main UTME. It is especially beneficial for first-time candidates who want CBT experience before the actual exam.

Cost of UTME e-PIN Fee Breakdown

JAMB has announced the approved cost of the UTME e-PIN for the 2026 UTME registration. These prices remain uniform nationwide to ensure fairness.

1. UTME ONLY WITHOUT MOCK – ₦7,200
2. UTME WITH MOCK – ₦8,700

The full breakdown of the approved charges includes:

1. UTME JAMB Application Fee – ₦3,500
2. Reading Text – ₦1,000
3. CBT Centre Registration Service Charge – ₦700
4. CBT Centre UTME Service Charge – ₦1,500
5. Bank Charges – ₦500
6. CBT Mock-UTME Centre Charge – ₦1,500

Candidates must specify their preferred e-PIN category at the point of purchase, as JAMB does not provide refunds after payment.

Approved Outlets for Purchase of JAMB UTME e-PIN

Candidates can purchase the JAMB 2026 UTME e-PIN from any approved outlet nationwide. These outlets guarantee secure and official payment processing.

Approved physical outlets include:

1. NIPOST
2. Banks
3. MMOs
4. MFBs

Additionally, candidates may purchase e-PINs online using:

1. Remita
2. Quickteller
3. Moniepoint

Process Flow for JAMB UTME e-PIN Purchase

The purchase process for the UTME e-PIN follows a clear sequence, beginning with profile code generation and ending with CBT centre registration. Understanding this flow helps candidates avoid errors that may delay registration.

Furthermore, following the correct process ensures that candidate’s complete registration within the timelines specified in the 2026 JAMB timetable.

Each step below explains the procedure in a simple and practical manner.

Profile Code Generation

To purchase a JAMB UTME e-PIN, candidates must first generate a JAMB profile code. This is done by sending NIN (space) 11-digit NIN number via SMS to 55019 or 66019.

Immediately after sending the message, JAMB generates a unique 10-digit profile code and sends it back to the candidate via SMS. This profile code remains permanent and reusable for future UTME or DE applications.

Candidates must use an active SIM card loaded with airtime. Post-paid lines or special bundle packages may not work unless credited.

Steps for Payment and Registration

1. Present the generated profile code at any approved JAMB e-PIN outlet.
2. Pay for the chosen category of UTME e-PIN.
3. Receive the e-PIN via SMS on your registered phone number.
4. Visit an accredited JAMB CBT centre with your profile code and e-PIN to complete registration.

Candidates must be physically present at the CBT centre for biometric capture, including a photograph and all ten fingerprints.

JAMB 2026 UTME Sales of e-PIN Date

According to the 2026 JAMB timetable, the sale of UTME registration e-PINs will take place from Monday, 19th January to Thursday, 26th February 2026.

Candidates are advised to purchase their e-PINs early to avoid network congestion and last-minute delays.

JAMB 2026 UTME Registration Date

The UTME registration period is scheduled to run from Monday, 26th January to Saturday, 28th February 2026.

Late registration will not be permitted, making it essential for candidates to complete the process within the approved timeframe.

JAMB 2026 UTME Examination Date

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has scheduled the 2026 UTME to hold from Thursday, 16th April to Saturday, 25th April 2026.

JAMB will assign candidates specific examination dates, times, and centres through the examination slip.

JAMB 2026 UTME Slip Reprinting Date

The UTME slip reprinting exercise usually begins 7 days before the commencement of the mock examination. The reprinted slip will display the examination date, time, venue, and other essential details.

However, JAMB will officially announce the exact dates for mock and main examination slip reprinting through its approved communication channels, including SMS and official platforms.

Candidates are strongly advised to reprint their slips early and familiarize themselves with their examination centres before the exam day.

JAMB 2026 UTME Eligibility Requirement

1. Degree applicants must possess at least five (5) O’Level credit passes, including English, obtained in not more than two sittings. Mathematics is compulsory for Science, Technology, and Social Science programmes.
2. ND/NCE applicants must have a minimum of four (4) relevant credit passes, including English for non-science programmes and Mathematics for science-based courses.

JAMB Mock Examination Timetable for 2026 UTME

The board has released the mock examination timetable as part of the 2026 JAMB timetable. The mock exam helps candidates gain confidence before the main UTME.

Although optional, participation offers valuable CBT experience, especially for first-time candidates.

Candidates who choose the mock option must follow the approved schedule strictly.

JAMB 2026 UTME Mock Examination Registration Date

Mock examination selection runs from Monday, 26th January to Monday, 16th February 2026.

Candidates must indicate interest during UTME registration before final submission.

JAMB 2026 UTME Mock Examination Date

The UTME mock examination is scheduled for Saturday, 28th March 2026.

Candidates who indicated interest in the mock examination are expected to prepare ahead of the examination date.

JAMB 2026 UTME Mock Slip Reprinting Date

Mock examination slips are usually reprinted 7 days before the mock examination date. These slips contain the examination venue, date, and time.

JAMB will announce the official reprinting date through SMS and its official platforms. Candidates should reprint early and locate their centres ahead of time.

Purpose of the JAMB Mock Examination

The JAMB mock examination familiarizes candidates with the CBT environment, question navigation, and time management.

It helps reduce examination anxiety and improves overall confidence.

However, mock results do not affect the main UTME score.

Eligibility for JAMB UTME Mock

Only candidates who:

1. Successfully registered for UTME
2. Indicated interest during registration
3. Paid the approved mock fee are eligible to participate.

Is the JAMB Mock Examination Compulsory?

No, the mock examination is not compulsory.

Candidates who do not participate can still sit for the main UTME without penalty.

JAMB 2026 UTME Timetable

The full UTME timetable has been analyzed above in line with the official 2026 JAMB timetable.

JAMB UTME Age Requirement

Candidates must be at least 16 years old by 30th September of the admission year to qualify for admission.

Exceptionally gifted candidates below 16 may register if they score at least 80% in UTME and other assessments.

There is no upper age limit, allowing mature candidates equal access to tertiary education.

Conclusion

The 2026 JAMB timetable provides a clear and structured roadmap for UTME candidates preparing for the 2026/2027 academic session. By following the approved dates, candidates can complete registration and examination processes smoothly.

In addition, staying informed through official JAMB communication channels remains important, especially regarding slip reprinting dates and examination updates.

Ultimately, early preparation, careful planning, and strict adherence to the 2026 JAMB timetable significantly increase a candidate’s chances of a successful UTME experience.