JAMB Confirms No Extension for 2026 UTME Registration as One Million Candidates Enrol

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has announced that nearly one million candidates have already registered for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, while firmly stating that there will be no extension of the registration deadline.

According to information released in the Board’s official bulletin, sales of the UTME ePIN will end on February 26, while the registration portal will close on February 28, 2026, as earlier scheduled.

JAMB advised candidates intending to sit for the examination to complete their registration immediately and avoid waiting until the final days. The Board expressed concern over the low turnout of candidates at many accredited registration centres at this stage of the exercise, describing the trend as a recurring pattern that often leads to last-minute pressure and calls for deadline extensions.

The Board stated clearly that this year’s registration timeline, which commenced on January 26, 2026, and is scheduled to last for five weeks, will not be altered under any circumstances.

JAMB also warned candidates to disregard misleading information from individuals and groups who encourage delayed registration in anticipation of an extension. The Board noted that some of these tactics are linked to attempts to create opportunities for examination malpractice through last-minute crowding at registration centres.

With about one million candidates already indicating interest and many having purchased their ePINs, JAMB explained that extending the registration period would disrupt its tightly structured examination calendar, which aligns with the schedules of other national examination bodies.

Candidates are therefore urged to register early, avoid unnecessary delays, and ignore any unofficial claims suggesting a possible extension.

The Board emphasised that it will not be responsible for candidates who fail to complete their registration within the stipulated timeframe.