JAMB opens 2026 Direct Entry registration nationwide

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially commenced the sale of application documents for the 2026 Direct Entry (DE) program, signaling the start of the next phase in the national admission cycle.

In a statement released via its official X (formerly Twitter) account, the Board confirmed that the registration window opened today, Monday, March 2, and is scheduled to close on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

This announcement follows closely on the heels of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration, which concluded just two days ago on February 28.

To ensure the integrity of the process, JAMB has emphasized that the purchase of e-PINs and all subsequent application procedures are restricted exclusively to its accredited state and zonal offices nationwide.

This centralized approach is intended to streamline the verification of various qualifying credentials.

The Direct Entry program serves as a critical pathway for candidates holding recognized advanced qualifications, such as the National Diploma (ND), National Certificate in Education (NCE), Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB) results, or A-level certificates.

Successful applicants under this scheme bypass the standard UTME to gain admission directly into the 200-level of their chosen university programs.

As the Board transitions into the DE registration phase, it remains vigilant against technological interference.

Recent reports indicate that JAMB has already uncovered an AI-driven examination fraud syndicate, leading to the potential cancellation of over 100 UTME registrations.

Prospective Direct Entry candidates are therefore urged to adhere strictly to official guidelines and utilize only authorized JAMB centers to avoid complications with their applications.