The JAMB registration fee for 2026 is the first thing that you need to know if you are planning on writing the upcoming UMTE exam in 2026. It is common knowledge that the process can be overwhelming with deadlines, biometrics and the selection of the CBT center where you want to register.
It will be easier to understand how much, when, and where to pay. This guide is a step-by-step guide that will guide you through the pitfalls and will prevent you by avoiding making important mistakes that will cost you a lot.
This is because, regardless of the regulations being your first time registering, or a renewal, this is how to know the JAMB fee in 2026, the processes to complete, the payment methods, and the pro tips other people do not tell you.
What Is the JAMB Registration Fee for 2026?
For this year, the JAMB registration fee has been pegged at ₦7,200 for those that don’t want to write mock exam.
For the aspirants that want to write the mock exam, then the registration fee is ₦8,700.
Here’s how it breaks down:
– UTME Registration Fee: ₦5,000
– Reading Text ( The Lekki Headmaster): ₦500
– CBT Service Charge: ₦1,700
– Mock Exam Fee (Optional): ₦1,500
– Grand Total (Without Mock): ₦7,200
– Grand Total (With Mock): ₦8,700
This fee includes all the necessary information needed to sit the exam as long as you go through the payment procedures well and have the receipt.
Where to Pay the JAMB Registration Fee for 2026
JAMB has accepted a number of safe methods by which payments can be made. Choose one of the following:
– Banks: The majority of the commercial banks in Nigeria can accept JAMB payments. Go to one of the branches, specify that you are paying JAMB, provide your profile code and transact the business.
– USSD/Shortcode: Dial 55019 or 66019 using your registered SIM then use the menu to pay using a mobile wallet or bank account.
– Internet Payments: You are to visit the JAMB portal and enter with your profile code and then pay with a debit card as it has been indicated.
– Vendors of e-PIN: e-PINs are sold by accredited centers of CBT and by specified vendors. What they need to do is to ensure they are JAMB-approved.
– POS Payments at CBT Centers: POS payments are accepted at some CBT registration centers though ensure that they are accredited in the first place.
Related Article | Jamb Exam Starting Date For 2026 Candidates
Step-by-Step Guide to Pay the JAMB Registration Fee for 2026
Create a JAMB Profile
– Reply with your NIN in the form of an SMS to 55019 or 66019 using your personal phone number. A profile code will be issued to you, which is 10 digits.
Make Payment
– Pay with your profile code using any of the authorized outlets. Once payment is made successfully, you will be provided with your ePIN.
Refer to a Certified CBT Organization.
– Use your ePIN to visit any certified CBT facility to get registered. They will scan your biometrics, photo and post your information.
Mistakes to Avoid When Paying the JAMB Registration Fee for 2026
Using Another Person Profile Code to Pay.
– Your profile code is unique. In doing so with the will of another it will not go to your account.
Losing Your Payment Receipt
– Always keep the receipt. It is your proof of payment.
Making payments to Unapproved Vendors.
– There are others who operate under agents. Unless they are included on the JAMB site do not pay them.
Using the Wrong SIM Number
– Use a single phone number in the whole process. The process of changing SIMs may interfere with your registration.
Extra Costs You Will Pay Along With The JAMB Registration Fee
Although the official fee can be ₦7,200 or ₦8,700, there are other minor costs that may add to it:
– Transport to CBT centers: Prices differ depending on the location and can be incurred either on a daily basis at registration or on a daily basis during the mock exam.
– Copies of papers: You will have to bring the copies of your NIN slip, O-Level, and passport photo.
– Internet / cybercafe fees: When you have no data or a personal computer, accessing data at a cybercafe will cost you.
– Email registration JAMB now accepts a Gmail address attached to your profile, even though it is not a strict requirement.
Such extras may change up to ₦1,000- ₦3,000, depending on the situation.
When to Pay the JAMB Registration Fee for 2026
The registration process is believed to start in January 2026 and end in February 2026 but may slightly change. The early registration will help you to escape the last-minute rush and server failures.
What Happens After You Pay For JAMB E-PIN?
And after you have paid and gotten your ePIN:
– Go to a CBT facility to do registration.
– Select your institutions of your choice.
– Provide biometric information and passports.
– Gather your registration slip.
– Wait until the date and center of the exam is announced.
Expert Tips You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
Enter your own phone Number Only:
– never send your NIN using the SIM of your friend or your parents. You use the number of your phone as a JAMB ID.
Store Your Profile Code in more than one Place:
– Save it, screen-shot it and e-mail it to yourself. Recovery is hard if it’s lost.
Email Address: enter Gmail only:
JAMB is in favor of using Gmail to achieve integration with their systems. No Yahoo or personal domains.
Don’t Wait Until the Deadline:
– Traffic congestion among servers, CBT facilities are overcrowded. Register early to stay ahead.
Use a Bank App for Payment:
Most banking applications enable you to directly make payments to JAMB, thus eliminating mistakes and giving you the ability to follow-up on the payment.
If eventually you can afford it, then do not skip the Mock Exam:
– The mock will replicate the actual UTME, lessen any anxiety and will be getting you used to the interface.
Register at a Quiet Center:
– In case you reside in a large city, select a CBT facility in a small town. A reduced number of candidates implies quicker service and reduced stress.
Conclusion
Entering into a university in Nigeria begins with a very basic yet significant task and that is paying your JAMB registration fee properly. This guide has demonstrated how to prepare, pay, and how to avoid some of the pitfalls, to have an easy road to UTME.
One decision will make your future. Now, watch your word, and you will be thankful at a later time. You should not allow such a minor error to block your path to taking the UTME or getting admission.
The JAMB registration fee for 2026 is not just another payment, but is the first step towards a bigger opportunity.
In case this guide helped you, share it out to someone in need.