The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially started the 2026 Direct Entry (DE) registration process for candidates aiming for admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions. The Board made this announcement public through its verified social media channels, confirming that the sale of application documents and e-PIN vending began on Monday, March 2, 2026, and will run until Saturday, April 25, 2026. Prospective applicants are reminded that this registration must be carried out at JAMB State and Zonal Offices nationwide and not through Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres or other unapproved outlets.
Direct Entry registration provides a pathway for holders of advanced qualifications such as National Diploma (ND), National Certificate in Education (NCE), Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB), Cambridge A-Level, and other approved certificates to secure admission directly into the second year (200-level) of degree programmes without sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Candidates who have completed these programmes and meet the academic criteria are encouraged to make this opportunity count.
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What the Registration Covers and Who Can Apply
Direct Entry is specifically designed for individuals who have completed recognised post-secondary qualifications and want to pursue degree programmes in universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education. Applicants are required to present original certification of their qualifications and other necessary documentation when they visit the designated JAMB offices for registration. This process is central to ensuring only eligible and qualified candidates gain access to higher levels of education through this route.
JAMB’s timeline gives applicants nearly two months to complete the process and avoid last-minute rushes or technical issues. Given the importance of complying with set dates, candidates are encouraged to plan and prepare all required credentials before attending any registration centre.
Requirements and Registration Guidance
Before heading to a JAMB office, candidates must ensure they have obtained their e-PIN for the Direct Entry registration, which is sold on the same dates as the application window. The Board emphasises that the sale and registration of Direct Entry forms are not available at accredited CBT centres, a distinction that many applicants sometimes misunderstand. Instead, the official JAMB State and Zonal Offices are the only authorised points for Direct Entry processing.
In addition to the qualification credentials, applicants must usually present proof of identity, such as a valid National Identification Number (NIN) and other supporting documents. These checks are in place to protect the integrity of the registration process and ensure validation of applicant details. Candidates should be mindful of these requirements and ensure they meet them ahead of time to avoid being turned away or having their applications delayed.
Implications for Applicants and Next Steps
This launch comes after the close of the UTME registration period, which ended on February 28, 2026. With DE now underway, thousands of diploma and advanced certificate holders across Nigeria have the chance to secure placement into the 2026/2027 academic session. Students who may have planned to use DE as their admission route should take swift action to complete their registration within the stipulated timeline.
Educational analysts and student advisors stress the importance of early registration to avoid avoidable setbacks, noting that rushing at the final hour often leads to errors or missed deadlines. With the nearly eight-week window now open, keen candidates have sufficient time to visit their respective JAMB offices, verify requirements, and submit their applications correctly.
For further details and official updates, candidates should keep an eye on JAMB’s official communication channels and be wary of misleading announcements from unauthorised sources.
This year’s Direct Entry registration marks a vital phase in Nigeria’s tertiary admission calendar. As thousands prepare to take advantage of this opportunity, the Board’s clear guidelines and timelines are designed to ensure a smooth and fair registration experience for all qualified applicants.
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