The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has concluded the registration exercise for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), recording a total of 2,243,816 candidates successfully registered to sit for this year’s examination.

​The registration period, which commenced in late January and ended at approved Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres on 28 February 2026, drew an unprecedented number of applicants seeking admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education across Nigeria and designated foreign examination centres. This figure represents a significant increase compared with earlier interim counts reported during the registration window.

​JAMB’s Registrar and Chief Executive, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, highlighted the importance of the smooth conduct of the registration process amid concerns over integrity and fairness. In related briefings, the Board disclosed ongoing internal investigations and disciplinary actions against staff and external collaborators involved in fraudulent registration practices, a move aimed at safeguarding the credibility of the examination system.

The 2026 UTME is scheduled to take place in April 2026, with exact dates and examination logistics to be communicated to registered candidates ahead of the test. The Board has reiterated its commitment to transparent and merit-based assessment and urged candidates to prepare diligently for the examination.