CollinsEvery JAMB season starts the same way.
One minute, you’re calm, telling yourself, “I still have time.” The next minute, screenshots start flying on WhatsApp, people are shouting “JAMB registration has started o!”, and suddenly your heart rate increases. That panic usually comes from one thing, not knowing where to start.
At the center of it all is the JAMB E-PIN.
No E-PIN, no registration. It’s that simple.
I will take you through all the information you need to know about the purchase of JAMB E-PIN in 2026 the actual price, where to buy it with the appropriate method, how to ensure your PIN is not a bad purchase, and even the best time to purchase it so you can not be in a hurry when making the purchase.
Official Cost of JAMB E-PIN for 2026
One of the most common questions students ask is, “How much is JAMB E-PIN for 2026?” And honestly, the confusion is understandable because the amount depends on whether you’re writing UTME only or UTME with Mock.
Here’s the official breakdown according to JAMB:
UTME ONLY (Without Mock)
₦7,200
UTME WITH Mock Examination
₦8,700
Now, this is where many people get confused. That amount is not just “registration money.” It actually covers several things bundled together.
What the JAMB E-PIN Payment Covers
UTME / Direct Entry application fee – ₦3,500
JAMB compulsory reading text – ₦1,000
CBT registration centre service charge – ₦700
CBT UTME server charge – ₦1,500
Bank charges – ₦500
Optional Mock UTME centre charge – ₦1,500
So when someone tells you “JAMB is expensive,” just know that the payment isn’t random. Everything is already itemized.
Also note this important date:
Sales of JAMB E-PIN for 2026 stop on 26th February, 2026.
Once that window closes, that’s it, no extensions, no begging.
Approved Ways to Buy JAMB E-PIN for 2026
Let’s be clear about something: not every place selling E-PINs is legitimate. Buying from the wrong source can leave you with an E-PIN that doesn’t work, and that pain is not something you want to experience.
JAMB has officially approved several channels where candidates can safely buy their JAMB E-PIN for 2026.
1. Buying JAMB E-PIN from Banks and Financial Institutions
This is the old-school and still very reliable method.
You can buy your E-PIN from:
- Commercial banks
- Microfinance banks (MFBs)
- Mobile Money Operators (MMOs)
- NIPOST offices
Other participating financial institutions
All you need is your JAMB Profile Code, which must already be generated on your phone before going there.
Once payment is successful, the E-PIN will be sent directly to your registered phone number via SMS. No middleman. No delay.
2. Buying JAMB E-PIN Online (No Bank Visit Required)
This is one of the biggest updates for 2026, and honestly, it has made life easier.
You can now buy JAMB E-PIN for 2026 online from approved platforms without stepping out of your house. At the moment, the platforms confirmed to be working include:
- Quickteller
- Remita
- Moniepoint
More platforms may be added, but these ones are verified as of now.
This option is perfect if:
You don’t like bank queues
You want speed and convenience
You’re buying late and need quick delivery
Just make sure you enter the correct Profile Code and phone number, because that’s where your E-PIN will be sent.
How to Confirm a Genuine JAMB E-PIN
Let me say this clearly: a genuine JAMB E-PIN always comes directly from JAMB’s system.
Here’s how you know yours is real:
It is sent via SMS to the phone number you used to generate your Profile Code.
It works immediately at an approved CBT registration centre.
It can be validated during registration without any “error” message.
If someone gives you a handwritten number, asks you to “wait till later,” or says “network is delaying JAMB” that’s a red flag.
When Is the Best Time to Buy JAMB E-PIN for 2026
Technically, you can buy your E-PIN anytime before 26th February, 2026. But practically? Some times are better than others.
The Best Time: Early in the Registration Window
Buying early gives you:
Peace of mind
More time to choose a good CBT centre
Less pressure and mistakes
Better chances of smooth registration
When you wait until the deadline week, things change. Servers get busy. CBT centres become crowded. Small errors turn into big problems.
Also remember:
UTME/DE registration begins on Monday, 26th January, 2026.
If you already have your E-PIN before then, you’re already ahead of thousands of candidates.
And for Direct Entry candidates, take note:
Direct Entry E-PIN sales begin on Monday, 2nd March, 2026.
Also Read; Jamb Registration Fee For 2026: Complete Payment Guide For Aspirants
Frequently Asked Question(FAQs)
1. Is it possible to use a single JAMB E-PIN on two applicants?
No, you can’t. JAMB E-PINs have a very strong linkage with a single Profile Code and a single candidate. As soon as it was registered it is not valid to any other person. Attempts to use an E-PIN again will not just work.
2. So, what will happen to me if in any case I lose the JAMB E-PIN SMS?
In case you lose the SMS with your E-PIN, you should not be so worried. It can be accessed by going back to the bank or platform that you used to purchase it, or your transaction history in case you purchased it online.
3. Is it possible to change the number of my phone after purchasing the JAMB E-PIN?
No. The one JAMB recognizes is the phone number that you used to create your Profile Code. You must remember that after purchasing the E-PIN, you are not allowed to change your number, hence be careful of using an active number that you will retain during the entire registration process.
4. Can JAMB E-PIN be purchased elsewhere than in Nigeria?
Yes, they can, however, it has to be through authorized online services such as Remita or Quickteller where the international payment can be made. To make physical bank purchases, you normally need to be in Nigeria.
5. Will a purchase of the JAMB E-PIN see me through?
No. The purchase of the E-PIN is not the only step. Once you have purchased, you have to revisit an approved JAMB CBT registration centre where you undergo your biometric capture and final registration.
6. Is it possible to postpone my registration once the E-PIN has been purchased?
Yes, but not outside the period of registration. Registration might be useless should registration be closed prior to your use of E-PIN. This is why it is better to put the registration in just after buying your E-PIN.
7. Is the JAMB mock exam a requirement?
No, the mock exam is optional. Nonetheless, it is preferred by many applicants since it enables them to learn the CBT setting and lessen the anxiety levels during the exams, particularly the first-time JAMB candidates.
Conclusion
Buying your JAMB E-PIN for 2026 is not something to rush blindly or postpone until panic sets in. Once you understand the official cost, use only approved channels, confirm your E-PIN properly, and buy it at the right time, the entire JAMB process becomes much less stressful.
This is one of those small steps that quietly determines how smooth your admission journey will be, so why not do it right from the start and give yourself that peace of mind, don’t you think?
Peter