JAMB 2026 Direct Entry Portal Now Open – Don’t Miss The Deadline

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially opened registration for the 2026 Direct Entry programme, allowing eligible candidates to begin the application process. According to Ireporter Online, the board announced on its official handle on Monday that the registration period commenced on March 2, 2026, and will close on April 25, 2026.

JAMB stressed that all registration activities must be conducted exclusively through its accredited state and zonal centres nationwide. The board highlighted that the sale of e-PINs and application documents is strictly limited to these authorised offices, a measure aimed at promoting transparency and preventing irregularities linked to third-party registrations.

The Direct Entry programme provides an alternative pathway for candidates with advanced qualifications to gain direct admission into the 200 level of university programmes without taking the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Eligible applicants include holders of National Diplomas, National Certificates in Education, Interim Joint Matriculation Board certificates, A-Level certificates, and other recognised equivalents. The route is particularly popular among polytechnic and college of education graduates seeking university admission.

The launch of Direct Entry registration follows the conclusion of the 2026 UTME registration, which ended on February 28. Prospective candidates are urged to initiate their applications promptly and complete all processes within the stipulated period to avoid last-minute delays. JAMB reiterated its warning that applicants must adhere strictly to official guidelines and use only accredited centres for all registration procedures.