The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has given fresh assurance to Nigerians that candidates sitting for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) are unlikely to face higher registration costs.
The examination body explained that fees for both UTME and Direct Entry have remained unchanged for the past nine years. In fact, JAMB revealed that registration charges were reduced at some point during the current administration.
This update was shared in JAMB’s Weekly Bulletin released on Monday. According to the Board, any possible adjustment to examination fees would only be considered if it becomes necessary to preserve the quality, security, and credibility of the exams.
JAMB said its stance reflects the directive of President Bola Tinubu, communicated through the Minister of Education, which encourages government agencies to operate with sensitivity to the economic realities affecting Nigerian families.
The Board noted that the clarification was issued to help parents and guardians plan ahead for their children’s education, adding that the cost of participating in the 2026 examination exercise will largely remain the same as in the previous year.
Candidates and their guardians were advised to make early preparations and complete registration on time, as JAMB stressed that the registration window will not be extended once it officially opens.
Despite keeping fees affordable, JAMB stated that it has continued to run its operations efficiently and responsibly, leading to significant remittances to the Federal Government. This, according to the Board, demonstrates its commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective financial management.
JAMB also reaffirmed its dedication to fairness, affordability, and adherence to international best practices in the conduct of its examinations.
Meanwhile, the Board announced that sales of forms for the 2026 UTME will begin on Friday, January 31, 2026, and close on Saturday, March 8, 2026.