Are you planning to sit for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination in 2025? If yes, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the registration requirements, fees, deadlines, and procedures to ensure a smooth process.
If you’re among those preparing for the 2025 JAMB examination, you might be curious about when the registration will begin. Beyond just knowing the start date, it’s important to understand the requirements, registration process, and key deadlines to avoid any last-minute surprises.
The JAMB UTME serves as a key pathway for securing admission into universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education across the country and we’ll walk you through all the details you need to know about the 2025 JAMB registration, including the start date, the UTME and Direct Entry options, and the step-by-step registration process.
What Is The Jamb Registration All About?
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is a Nigerian government agency responsible for conducting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and the Direct Entry (DE) exams.
These exams are essential for candidates seeking admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education across Nigeria. JAMB ensures that only eligible and qualified candidates are admitted into these institutions.
The Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is designed for candidates who have completed secondary school and are aspiring to gain admission into higher institutions. On the other hand, the Direct Entry (DE) examination is tailored for candidates who already hold a diploma, NCE, or equivalent qualification and wish to pursue a degree program.
Registering for JAMB is a crucial step for any prospective student intending to take the UTME or DE exams. The registration process not only ensures candidates meet the necessary criteria but also serves as a formal way to document them for admission into accredited Nigerian tertiary institutions.
During the registration, candidates provide essential details such as their personal information, preferred course of study, institution of choice, and the subjects they plan to take in the examination. Additionally, biometric data is captured to confirm the identity and authenticity of each candidate.
What Is The Purpose of JAMB Registration?
Registering for JAMB is an essential step for students aiming to qualify for the UTME or Direct Entry (DE) examination. This process ensures that candidates meet all the requirements and are officially documented for admission into accredited tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
During registration, candidates are required to provide their personal information, select their preferred course of study, choose an institution, and specify the subjects they wish to take during the examination. Biometric data is also captured to confirm each candidate’s identity and authenticity.
Completing the registration early offers several advantages. It allows candidates to secure their preferred examination centre, minimizes the chances of errors, and provides sufficient time for corrections if needed. Understanding the registration process in advance will make the experience much smoother and stress-free.
When is JAMB Registration Starting for 2025?
The JAMB registration period typically lasts for six weeks, after which all applicants are advised to print their exam slips and start preparing for the UTME. For 2025, JAMB registration will run from Wednesday, January 15, 2025, to Wednesday, February 26, 2025.
Early registration is highly recommended to avoid the last-minute rush as the deadline approaches. The 2025/2026 JAMB UTME will be conducted from Friday, April 18, 2025, to Monday, April 28, 2025, in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format at accredited centres across Nigeria. Candidates can check their specific exam date, time, and venue on the JAMB portal or through SMS notifications.
JAMB has also scheduled a mock examination for Friday, March 7, 2025, with mock slip reprinting starting on Thursday, April 10, 2025. The main UTME results will be released on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Candidates are encouraged to stay updated and ensure they meet all requirements ahead of these important dates.
JAMB Registration Requirements for 2025/2026
To register for JAMB in 2025, all prospective candidates must meet the following requirements:
• National Identification Number (NIN): Candidates must have an 11-digit NIN obtained from any NIMC enrollment centre or via the NIMC mobile app. This is essential for creating a JAMB profile and registering for the exams.
• JAMB Profile Code: Candidates need a 10-digit profile code, which is generated by sending their NIN to 55019 or 66019 via SMS.
• Valid Phone Number: A functional phone number is required to create a JAMB profile and receive updates. It’s crucial to use the same phone number throughout the registration and examination process.
• Active Email Address: Candidates must have a valid email address to create their JAMB profile and access registration details.
• A-Level or O-Level Results: Applicants must have their WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, or GCE results ready before registering. Candidates with “awaiting results” can still apply but must upload their final results to the JAMB portal before admission.
• ePIN Purchase: Candidates need an ePIN, which costs ₦3,500, to complete the registration. The ePIN can be purchased from authorized channels like banks, online platforms, or via USSD. Additional fees include:
₦700 for registration
₦1,500 for the main UTME
₦1,500 for the optional Mock-UTME (if applicable).
• Personal Information: Candidates must provide details such as their name, date of birth, gender, state of origin, local government area, passport photograph, and signature. Biometric verification (thumbprinting) is also required.
Note: The total registration cost is approximately ₦5,200 for the main UTME and ₦6,700 if opting for the Mock UTME.
What Are The Steps to Register for JAMB 2025/2026?
After purchasing your ePIN, follow these steps to complete your JAMB registration:
1. Visit an Accredited CBT Center: Ensure you register at a JAMB-accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centre. Cybercafés are not authorized and may compromise the security and validity of your registration.
2. Provide Necessary Documents: Submit your NIN, O’Level or A’Level results (if available), passport photograph, and other required personal information.
3. Biometric Verification: Your biometric data, including fingerprints, will be captured during the registration process. This is mandatory for verifying your identity.
4. Complete the Registration Form: Fill out the form with accurate details, including your preferred course, institution, and examination centre. Double-check this information to avoid errors, as corrections may be costly and time-consuming.
5. Review and Confirm Your Details: Carefully review all the information you provided before submission. Confirm that your name, course choices, exam centre, and other details are correct.
6. Receive Your Registration Slip: Once registration is complete, you’ll receive a printed registration slip containing important details like your exam date, time, and venue.
7. Collect the JAMB e-Brochure and Syllabus: The CBT centre will give you a CD with the official JAMB e-Brochure and syllabus. Use these materials as part of your study plan.
8. Begin Preparing Early: Start studying past questions, practising with CBT tools, and reviewing recommended texts to prepare effectively for the examination.
Common Issues During JAMB Registration and How to Resolve Them
• Incorrect NIN Details: Ensure that your NIN details match your personal information. If there are any discrepancies, visit a NIMC enrollment centre to update your records.
• Invalid ePIN: If your ePIN doesn’t work, contact JAMB support or the vendor where you purchased it for prompt assistance.
• Biometric Issues: If there are problems capturing your biometric data, notify the CBT centre staff immediately so they can resolve the issue.
Tips for a Smooth JAMB Registration Process
1. Start Early: Begin your registration as soon as it opens to avoid the rush and reduce the chances of making errors.
2. Double-Check Information: Carefully review all personal and academic details before submitting your registration form.
3. Use Accredited Centers: Only register at JAMB-accredited CBT centres to ensure your registration is valid and secure.
4. Keep Copies of Documents: Make photocopies of your documents and store backups of your ePIN and registration slip for reference.
5. Stay Updated: Regularly visit the official JAMB website for announcements and updates to stay informed about any changes or important dates.
Where to Purchase 2025/2026 JAMB ePIN
JAMB ePIN can be obtained from a variety of authorized outlets, including:
• Banks: Visit branches of Zenith Bank, FirstBank, Access Bank, Polaris Bank, and other participating banks.
• Post Offices: Purchase ePINs at NIPOST branches across the country.
• Online Payment Platforms: Use platforms like Paga, Remita, or Interswitch for a convenient online option.
• USSD Codes: Dial specific USSD codes such as 737#, 770#, or 5656# on your mobile phone to purchase your ePIN.
Note: Ensure you keep your ePIN safe and accessible for a smooth registration process.
Difference Between JAMB Direct Entry (DE) and JAMB Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME)
The primary difference between JAMB Direct Entry (DE) and JAMB Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is based on the level of entry and the qualifications required.
JAMB Direct Entry (DE)
JAMB Direct Entry is meant for candidates who have already completed higher qualifications, such as:
• National Diploma (ND)
• Higher National Diploma (HND)
• Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE)
• Other equivalent qualifications
With the Direct Entry route, candidates can apply for admission into the second or third year of a university program, depending on the institution’s policies. This allows candidates to bypass the first year and continue their studies at a higher level.
JAMB UTME
The UTME is designed for candidates who wish to gain admission into 100-level programs at Nigerian universities or similar programs at polytechnics and colleges of education. It is meant for candidates who have completed their O’level qualifications (SSCE/NECO/WASSCE).
The UTME serves as the standard examination for entry into the first year of university studies. Candidates must write and pass the UTME, meeting the minimum score set by their chosen institution, to be eligible for 100-level courses.
Note: Candidates are not permitted to apply for both UTME and DE simultaneously. Applying for both may lead to the cancellation of the candidate’s profile.
Key Takeaway
• The registration period for JAMB 2025 begins on January 15, 2025, and ends on February 26, 2025.
• The UTME exam will take place from April 18 to April 28, 2025.
• Direct Entry (DE) registration also begins on January 15, 2025, and concludes on February 26, 2025.
• The total cost for the JAMB registration is approximately N5,200. This includes the ePIN fee of N3,500, the registration fee of N700, and the exam fee of N1,500. If you opt for the Mock-UTME, the total will be N6,700.
• Ensure that you purchase your ePIN from trusted and authorized sources to avoid falling victim to fraud.
• Use the JAMB syllabus and past questions to prepare for the exam. You can also take advantage of JAMB’s CBT practice app or online platforms to familiarize yourself with the exam format.
• After seven days, you can reprint your exam slip from the JAMB portal to confirm your exam date, time, and venue.
• It is important to arrive at your exam centre at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time. Be sure to bring your exam slip, NIN slip, writing materials, and a face mask. Do not bring any electronic devices or prohibited items to the exam centre.
• After taking the exam, you can check your results by visiting the JAMB portal or sending RESULT to 55019 using the phone number you registered with. The result retrieval service costs N50.
JAMB registration for the 2025/2026 academic session is a critical step for all candidates seeking admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. It’s important to complete all necessary steps, pay the required fees, and prepare adequately for the exam to ensure success.
Final Thoughts
The JAMB registration process is an essential step for candidates seeking admission into Nigerian higher institutions. With the 2025/2026 academic session fast approaching, it is crucial for prospective students to complete the registration process accurately and on time.
By following the guidelines outlined in this post, such as purchasing your ePIN from authorized outlets, familiarizing yourself with the exam format, and preparing early, you can ensure a smooth and successful registration experience. Remember to recheck all your details, arrive at your exam centre early, and stay informed throughout the process.
