UTME 2026: JAMB explains why university, poly students are allowed to register

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has debunked claims that candidates already studying in tertiary institutions are barred from registering for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) or the Direct Entry (DE) programme.

In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, the board explained that such candidates are only required to declare their current admission status during registration, not excluded from the process.

JAMB stressed that there is no policy preventing undergraduates or other enrolled students from applying for UTME or Direct Entry. It noted that the misunderstanding has persisted despite several clarifications.

The board reiterated that the UTME is intended for applicants seeking admission with their Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) results, while Direct Entry caters to candidates applying without sitting the UTME, including holders of National Diploma, Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE), IJMB, JUPEB and other approved advanced qualifications.

According to JAMB, candidates who are already admitted into any tertiary institution are eligible to register for the 2026 UTME or DE, provided they truthfully disclose their existing admission.

This declaration, it said, is strictly for documentation and regulatory purposes to prevent multiple admissions.

The examination body explained that once a candidate gains a new admission through UTME or Direct Entry, any previous admission automatically lapses, as the law does not allow an individual to hold two admissions at the same time.

JAMB further warned that candidates who conceal their matriculation status risk losing both their current admission and any new offer. Although its system can identify prior enrolment, deliberate non-disclosure attracts severe penalties.

The board also cautioned the public against misinformation spread by individuals it described as self-styled education advocates who misrepresent official policies for personal benefit.

It urged candidates and parents to depend solely on JAMB’s official publications and guidelines for accurate details on the 2026 UTME and Direct Entry admission procedures.