The 2026 Direct Entry (DE) registration conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially started for candidates seeking admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions through advanced qualifications rather than the traditional UTME route.
Direct Entry allows qualified candidates such as diploma holders, A-Level graduates, and degree holders to gain admission directly into 200 level in universities or other tertiary institutions in Nigeria. With registration now open, prospective applicants are advised to begin the process early to avoid last-minute delays.
In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about the JAMB 2026 Direct Entry registration, including requirements, registration fee, eligibility criteria, and the step-by-step application process.
When JAMB 2026 Direct Entry Registration Started
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has announced that the sale of JAMB Direct Entry e-PINs and registration for the 2026 admission exercise has officially commenced.
The registration period is expected to run from March 2026 and will close later in the admission cycle as determined by JAMB. Candidates are strongly advised to complete their registration as early as possible.
Unlike UTME registration which is usually done at accredited CBT centres, Direct Entry registration is completed at JAMB State or Zonal Offices across Nigeria.
Cost of the JAMB 2026 Direct Entry Form
The cost of the JAMB Direct Entry application form for 2026 is approximately ₦5,700.
This fee covers several administrative charges including:
- JAMB application fee
- Service charges
- Bank processing charges
- Registration administrative costs
Candidates must purchase the official Direct Entry e-PIN before proceeding with their registration.
Who Is Eligible for JAMB Direct Entry?
The Direct Entry admission pathway is designed for candidates who already possess qualifications beyond the secondary school level. Instead of starting from 100 level, successful applicants can gain admission directly into 200 level in Nigerian universities.
1. O’Level Requirements
Candidates must have at least five credit passes in relevant subjects including English Language in WAEC, NECO, or equivalent examinations. These results must be obtained in not more than two sittings.
2. Acceptable Advanced Qualifications
Applicants must possess at least one of the following qualifications:
- National Diploma (ND)
- Higher National Diploma (HND)
- Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE)
- Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university
- IJMB certificate
- JUPEB certificate
- Cambridge A-Level
- International Baccalaureate
- NABTEB A-Level certificate
- Other recognized foreign A-Level qualifications
All qualifications submitted during registration will be verified by JAMB.
Important Information Required During Registration
During the Direct Entry registration process, candidates will be required to provide important details including:
- Personal biodata
- National Identification Number (NIN)
- O’Level examination results
- Details of advanced academic qualifications
- Preferred institution and course of study
Candidates are advised to ensure that all information submitted is accurate to avoid delays or rejection during the admission process.
Steps to Register for JAMB 2026 Direct Entry
Step 1: Generate Your JAMB Profile Code
Candidates must first generate a JAMB profile code using their National Identification Number (NIN).
Step 2: Purchase the Direct Entry e-PIN
After generating the profile code, candidates should purchase the JAMB Direct Entry e-PIN from approved vendors such as banks or accredited registration outlets.
Step 3: Visit a JAMB State or Zonal Office
Direct Entry registration must be completed at an official JAMB State or Zonal Office where candidates will submit their credentials.
Step 4: Submit Academic Qualifications
Candidates must provide valid certificates or transcripts of their previous academic qualifications.
Step 5: Complete Biometric Verification
Biometric capture and identity verification will be conducted to confirm the authenticity of each applicant.
Why Direct Entry Is Important
Direct Entry provides a faster pathway to university education for candidates who already possess post-secondary qualifications.
Instead of starting from the first year, eligible candidates can begin their degree programs at the second year level, saving both time and financial resources.
This option is especially beneficial for graduates of:
- Polytechnics
- Colleges of education
- Advanced level foundation programmes such as IJMB and JUPEB
Tips for Candidates Applying for Direct Entry
- Ensure your O’Level results are correct and complete.
- Verify your advanced qualifications before registration.
- Register early to avoid last-minute issues.
- Confirm your preferred course and institution beforehand.
- Keep your NIN and personal details accurate.
The start of the 2026 JAMB Direct Entry registration offers an excellent opportunity for qualified candidates to gain university admission in Nigeria through an advanced entry pathway.
Prospective applicants should prepare their documents, verify their qualifications, and complete the registration process as early as possible to increase their chances of securing admission into their preferred institution.