By DAYO ADESULU
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially confirmed the registration service charges and examination dates for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), giving candidates, parents, and schools a clearer roadmap ahead of the highly competitive national test.
With millions of candidates expected to sit for the examination, the announcement settles lingering questions around how much candidates will pay and when the exams will take place, while also reinforcing JAMB’s push for transparency and early preparation.
This update places the focus squarely on 2026 UTME registration charges and exam dates, an issue that has dominated education discussions nationwide in recent weeks.
Breakdown of 2026 UTME Registration and Service Charges
JAMB disclosed a detailed breakdown of all mandatory charges associated with the 2026 UTME process. According to the Board, the fees are structured to cover registration logistics, computer-based testing services, and banking transactions.
The approved charges are as follows:
Registration Service Charge: N700
CBT Centre UTME Service Charge: N1,500
Bank Charges: N500
CBT Mock-UTME Centre Charge: N1,500 (optional)
In effect, candidates who choose to participate in the optional Mock-UTME will pay an additional N1,500, while those who opt out will only cover the core registration and examination-related fees.
JAMB explained that the charges reflect the cost of maintaining CBT infrastructure nationwide, ensuring stable systems, secure examination environments, and smoother registration processes across accredited centres.
Why JAMB Retained the Current Fee Structure
Education stakeholders had speculated about a possible increase in UTME-related charges due to inflation and rising operational costs. However, JAMB’s decision to maintain the existing fee framework has been widely interpreted as a relief for parents and guardians already facing economic pressure.
Officials within the Board noted that while operational expenses have increased, efficiency improvements and partnerships with CBT centres helped stabilize costs. As a result, JAMB opted for continuity rather than passing additional financial burden onto candidates.
This approach, observers say, aligns with the Board’s broader mandate to expand access to tertiary education without compromising examination integrity.
2026 UTME Examination Dates Officially Announced
Beyond fees, JAMB also confirmed the official examination timetable for the 2026 UTME, ending weeks of speculation among candidates and schools.
According to the Board:
“The 2026 UTME will commence on Thursday, 16th April, 2026, and end on Saturday, 25th April, 2026.”
The ten-day examination window allows JAMB to effectively manage the large candidate population while ensuring smooth scheduling across thousands of CBT centres nationwide.
Candidates are expected to check their individual examination dates, times, and centres via the JAMB portal once notification slips become available.
Mock-UTME Date and Its Importance
JAMB further announced that the Mock-UTME, which remains optional, will hold on:
Saturday, March 28th, 2026
The Mock-UTME serves as a preparatory test designed to help candidates familiarize themselves with the CBT environment, question navigation, and time management under real examination conditions.
Over the years, education experts have repeatedly encouraged candidates—especially first-time UTME takers—to participate in the mock exam, describing it as a confidence-building exercise rather than a performance assessment.
Although optional, candidates who participate often report reduced anxiety and improved performance during the main UTME.
What Candidates Should Do Next
With the confirmation of 2026 UTME registration charges and exam dates, candidates are advised to begin structured preparation immediately. This includes:
Ensuring accurate personal data during registration
Selecting accredited CBT centres only
Studying the approved UTME syllabus
Practicing with past questions and CBT simulations
Parents and guardians are also encouraged to guide candidates away from unverified agents and unofficial registration platforms, as JAMB reiterated that only approved channels guarantee valid registration.
JAMB’s Assurance on Examination Integrity
JAMB reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a credible, transparent, and malpractice-free examination in 2026. The Board emphasized that enhanced monitoring systems, biometric verification, and strict CBT centre accreditation will remain in place.
Candidates were warned that any attempt to manipulate the registration or examination process could result in outright disqualification and possible legal consequences.
Conclusion: Clear Path for 2026 UTME Candidates
The announcement of 2026 UTME registration charges, mock exam fees, and examination dates provides clarity at a crucial time for candidates nationwide. With the UTME scheduled between April 16 and April 25, 2026, and the Mock-UTME fixed for March 28, aspirants now have a defined timeline to plan, prepare, and perform.
As the countdown begins, education stakeholders agree on one point: early preparation, accurate registration, and disciplined study remain the strongest tools for success in the 2026 UTME.
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