[Update April 29, 2026] The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has extended the 2026 Direct Entry application deadline to 8 May 2026 and approved five new registration centres nationwide. Get the full details here: JAMB Extends Direct Entry Application Deadline to 8th May
JAMB 2026 Direct Entry (DE) registration form is out and currently on sale. National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), NCE, or equivalent qualification holders can now apply for the 2026 JAMB Direct Entry.
| Exam Type | Direct Entry (DE) |
| DE Registration Fee | ₦5,700 Only |
| O’Level Requirements | A minimum of Credit Pass in Five (5) SSSC Subjects |
| DE Registration Start Date | Monday 2, March 2026 |
| DE Registration Closing Date | Friday 8, May 2026 |
| Recommended Novel | The Lekki Headmaster |
The JAMB Direct Entry program is designed for candidates who possess advanced qualifications, such as A’level, OND, NCE, or their equivalents. It allows candidates to bypass the traditional UTME and gain direct admission into the second year or 200 level of their chosen courses.
Whether you’re a diploma holder, NCE graduate, or transferring from another university, this page will provide you with up to date information that will help you navigate the JAMB 2026 direct entry registration process.
DE Registration Form & Cost 2026
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has commenced the sales of the 2026 Direct Entry form (ePIN), which can be purchased from the following outlets:
- Banks
- POS agents
- Online payment platforms
- JAMB accredited CBT centres
The direct entry Registration Fee is Five Thousand Five Hundred Naira (₦5,700). ₦500 only is paid to obtain the recommended text “Lekki Headmaster” written by Khadija Abubakar, and a ₦700 service charge is to be paid at your CBT centre.
According to JAMB, sales of ePINs and registration forms would commence on Monday 2, March 2026. Candidates are advised to complete their registration before the portal closing date.
Eligibility Criteria for Direct Entry Students
Candidates typically need to possess advanced qualifications, such as A’level results, OND, NCE, or their equivalents, to be eligible for the 2026 JAMB. Below are the required documents:
- JAMB Registration ePIN
- O’Level/A’Level Result Printouts (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB)
- ND/NCE/HND Transcript
- Birth Certificate/Age Declaration
- Local Government Identification Certificate
Below are the qualifications/certificates that will be accepted for Direct Entry Candidates:
| QUALIFICATION TYPE |
| University diploma |
| Ordinary National Diploma (OND) |
| Higher National Diploma (HND) |
| Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) |
| Interim Joint Matriculation Board A’Level (IJMB) |
| Joint Universities Preliminary Examination Board A’ Level (JUPEB) |
| NABTEB Advanced National Business Certificate |
| NABTEB Advanced National Technical Certificate |
| NABTEB GCE A’Level (2015 to 2021) |
| Higher Islamic Studies Certificate by NBAIS |
| International Baccalaureate |
| National Registered Nurse / National Registered Midwife |
How to Apply for 2026 JAMB Direct Entry
Do you have all it takes to apply for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) DE? Kindly follow the instructions below to begin your registration process.
1. Create JAMB Profile Code: You need to generate your JAMB profile code before starting the online registration process.
2. Purchase JAMB ePIN: You can purchase the ePIN online through the JAMB portal using your ATM card or at designated JAMB CBT centres and accredited banks nationwide.
3. Create a JAMB Profile Online: If you do not have an account, kindly visit the JAMB eFacility portal (https://portal.jamb.gov.ng/) and create your profile using your email address and phone number.
4. Fill the Online Registration Form: Visit the JAMB portal again and log in using your JAMB registration number, email address, and password. Click on “Direct Entry” and proceed to fill out the online registration form carefully.
5. Upload Required Documents: Scan and upload your O’Level/A’Level results, ND/NCE/HND transcript, birth certificate/age declaration, and other required documents in the specified formats.
6. Review and Submit: Review your application thoroughly before submitting. Ensure all information is accurate and complete.
7. Print Registration Slip: After successful submission, print your registration slip for future reference.
However, we recommend you visit any JAMB accredited CBT centre nearest to you to register for the 2026 JAMB.
Important Notice
- Ensure you meet the specific entry requirements for your desired course and institution. Download 2026 JAMB Syllabus and Brochure
- Upload clear and recent scans of your documents.
- Keep your ePIN and registration number safe for future reference.
FAQs
Who is eligible for Direct Entry?
Candidates with the following qualifications are eligible:
- A'Level results (Cambridge, IJMB, JUPEB)
- ND/NCE/HND qualifications
- Bachelor's degree from a recognized university (for transfer admissions)
When will JAMB 2026 Direct Entry registration commence?
The 2025 registration exercise will begin on Monday 2, March 2026.
When will JAMB 2026 Direct Entry registration close?
JAMB DE registration will end on Wednesday 8, May 2026
How much does JAMB Direct Entry registration cost?
The cost of the 2026 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Direct Entry registration is ₦5,700 only.
Can I apply for UTME and Direct Entry same year?
No, you cannot apply for both UTME and Direct Entry in the same year. JAMB strictly prohibits this practice to ensure fairness and prevent duplication of applications.
Can I make changes to my application after submission?
Yes, you can. JAMB provides a "Correction of Data" service for candidates who need to fix errors or update their choices.
- Changes allowed: Course/Institution, Name, Date of Birth, and Gender.
- Cost: ₦2,500 (official fee) + service charges (approx. ₦500 to ₦1,000).
- Requirement: You must provide your fingerprint (biometrics) to authorize the change.
- NIN Note: If your biodata error is from your NIN, correct it at a NIMC office first.
Last Updated on April 29, 2026 by Ola Funmilayo
With over a decade of experience in education journalism, JAMB-GOV.ORG has become a trusted voice in providing relevant and comprehensive JAMB news reporting that matter most to students and educators nationwide.





