The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has again urged prospective candidates to note that registration for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) will end on February 26, stressing that the deadline will not be extended.
The reminder was contained in the board’s weekly bulletin released on Monday, where JAMB advised candidates yet to register to do so without delay.
The board expressed worry over the low turnout of candidates at many accredited registration centres, noting that a significant number of prospective candidates were still yet to complete the process despite the time already elapsed.
JAMB warned against the habitual practice of postponing registration until the final days and then calling for an extension, making it clear that such a trend would not be accommodated in 2026.
According to the board, it is aware of deliberate attempts by examination cheats and individuals posing as tutorial centre operators who often mislead candidates into delaying registration. JAMB explained that this tactic is usually aimed at forcing an extension of the registration period, which then allows candidates to move in groups to centres, creating opportunities for examination malpractice.
The board recalled that registration for the 2026 UTME began on January 26 and was scheduled to run for five weeks, adding that the timetable remains unchanged.
It disclosed that about one million candidates had already shown interest in the examination, with many having obtained their ePINs and expected to complete their registration in good time.
JAMB further stated that extending the registration period would be impractical, as its operational schedule is closely aligned with those of other examination bodies.
Candidates were therefore advised to register early, avoid last-minute rushes and ignore any claims suggesting that the registration deadline would be shifted. The board emphasised that it would not be held responsible for candidates who fail to complete their registration within the stipulated timeframe.
