The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has confirmed that there will be no increase in application fees for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE).
In its weekly bulletin released on Monday, the examination body stated that the 2026 registration exercise will largely retain the same fee structure as 2025, putting to rest concerns over a possible hike.
Decision Aligned With Federal Government Policy
According to JAMB, the decision is in line with directives from President Bola Tinubu, conveyed through the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa. The directive emphasises that government agencies should adopt people-centred policies that take into account the current economic realities facing Nigerian families.
“This clarification is provided to properly guide members of the public who wish to plan for the education of their children, as the cost implication for the 2026 exercise remains largely the same as that of the previous year,” the bulletin stated.
No Fee Increase in Nine Years
JAMB further revealed that it has not increased UTME or DE fees in the last nine years, noting that registration costs have even been reviewed downward under the current administration.
The board stressed that any future adjustment in fees would only be considered if it becomes absolutely necessary to sustain the integrity and quality of the examination process.
“Despite this downward review of fees, the Board has continued to operate efficiently and prudently, resulting in substantial remittances to the Federal Government over the years,” JAMB said.
2026 UTME Registration Dates Announced
JAMB disclosed that the sale of forms for the 2026 UTME will run from:
- Friday, January 31, 2026
- Saturday, March 8, 2026
Parents, guardians, and candidates were urged to complete registration early, as the board warned that no extension will be granted.
Important Advisory for Candidates
Candidates were strongly advised to verify their National Identification Number (NIN) details before creating their profiles.
JAMB warned that errors in NIN information could lead to avoidable challenges during registration and the examination.
“Candidates are therefore advised to take personal responsibility for the accuracy of their details from the start, as not all requests for corrections may be accommodated,” the bulletin cautioned.






![Popular Small-Size Actress Aunty Ajara Dies After Liver Illness [VIDEO]](https://thepunchng.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/20241109_125042-75x75.jpg)














