Before JAMB 2026 Registration Begins, Get These 9 Things Ready

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) will start the 2026 UTME and Direct Entry registration in January ending. As a student waiting for the registration exercise to begin, there are important things you must prepare now to avoid problems later. 

Here is a simple guide to help you get ready before JAMB registration starts.

9 Things You Must Get Ready Before JAMB 2026 Registration Begins

Below are the 9 things you must have as you wait for the registration to start:

1. Get Your National Identification Number (NIN)

Your NIN is compulsory for JAMB registration. If you do not have a NIN yet, go to a NIMC enrolment centre to register for it as soon as possible. 

2. Have a Registered Phone Number

You will need a mobile phone number that is already registered with your NIN. This number will be used to generate your JAMB profile code and receive all JAMB messages. Use a phone number that you always have access to. 

3. Create an Email Address

JAMB requires you to enter an email address during registration. If you do not have one, set up a free email account (for example, on Gmail). Your email helps secure your JAMB profile and can be used to recover your details if you lose your phone number. 

4. Choose Your Course of Study

Before registration, decide the course you want to study at the university, polytechnic, or college of education. Think carefully about what you are passionate about and good at. Also pick a second-choice course because JAMB will ask for it. 

5. Pick the School You Want to Apply To

Decide on the school you want to study in. Check if the school offers your chosen course, the school fees, and how far it is from home. It is good to have a backup school in case you do not get admitted into your first choice. 

6. Know Your Subject Combination

Every course has specific subjects that you must write in JAMB. Make sure you know the correct subject combination for your course. Choosing the wrong subjects may hurt your chance of getting admitted. Use the JAMB Brochure to check this before registration. 

7. Ask for Help if You Are Confused

If you are not sure about your course, school, or subject combination, ask someone who knows. You can ask teachers, guidance counsellors, or join a JAMB group online to get answers. 

8. Learn the Registration Steps

Registration usually has three steps:

1. Generate your Profile Code using your NIN.
2. Buy your JAMB e-PIN from an authorised bank or agent.
3. Visit a JAMB-approved CBT centre to complete your registration.

Check your details carefully during registration to avoid mistakes. 

9. Start Preparing for the Exam Early

Registration is important, but preparing for the JAMB exam is even more important. Start reading your textbooks, practice past questions, and work smart. Using past question apps or books will give you an advantage. 

Final Advice

Getting ready before JAMB registration begins will make the process easier for you. Prepare early, check your documents, and be sure of your choices. When registration opens, you will be ready to complete it smoothly and focus on studying for the exam.