By DAYO ADESULU
The (JAMB) has dismissed reports alleging an increase in its registration fees, describing the claim as false, misleading, and entirely unfounded.
In a statement signed by its Public Communication Adviser, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, the Board clarified that it has not adjusted its registration charges and that the approved fees remain the same as they have been since 2019.
JAMB Registration Fees Remain the Same
Addressing growing concerns among prospective candidates and parents, JAMB stated categorically that no increment has been introduced into its registration structure.
According to the Board, the approved registration fees are as follows:
- Direct Entry (DE): ₦5,700
- UTME Only (without Mock): ₦7,200
- UTME with Mock: ₦8,700
JAMB also provided a breakdown of the UTME charges to enhance transparency. The components include:
- Application Fee – ₦3,500
- Reading Text – ₦1,000
- CBT Centre Registration Service Charge – ₦700
- CBT Centre UTME Service Charge – ₦1,500
- Bank Charges – ₦500
- CBT Mock-UTME Centre Charge – ₦1,500
The Board emphasized that these fees have remained unchanged for over six years, despite rising operational and administrative costs across the country.
Federal Government’s 2018 Fee Reduction Still in Effect
JAMB recalled that in 2018, the approved a reduction of the UTME application fee from ₦5,000 to ₦3,500. The reduction took effect from the 2019 registration exercise.
Since then, the Board noted, it has maintained the same fee structure without introducing any increase. According to the statement, the current charges strictly reflect the government-approved pricing model.
The clarification comes amid social media reports and online publications suggesting that candidates were being asked to pay higher fees for the upcoming registration cycle.
Public Urged to Disregard False Publication
JAMB urged members of the public, particularly prospective candidates and their parents or guardians, to disregard the publication circulating online.
The Board advised stakeholders to rely only on information released through its verified communication platforms and official advertisements. It stressed that misinformation could create unnecessary panic and expose candidates to exploitation.
Furthermore, JAMB strongly encouraged candidates to carefully read its official registration advertisements before proceeding with any payment. According to the Board, thorough understanding of the guidelines will help candidates avoid being misled by dishonest individuals or unauthorized centres.
Warning Against Overcharging by CBT Centres
In a firm warning, JAMB appealed to candidates who may have paid more than the approved fees to promptly report such cases. The Board requested that complaints be accompanied by credible evidence to enable swift investigation.
It assured the public that any Computer-Based Test (CBT) centre found to be overcharging or engaging in sharp practices would face immediate disciplinary action.
The Board reiterated that it remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the protection of candidates’ interests at all times.
Education stakeholders say the clarification is timely, especially as many families prepare financially for the upcoming Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry registration.
With economic pressures mounting nationwide, even slight rumors of fee increases can spark anxiety among parents and guardians. However, JAMB’s latest statement appears aimed at calming those fears and reinforcing public trust in its processes.
As registration activities approach, candidates are advised to verify every detail before making payments and to ensure they complete registration only at accredited centres.
For now, JAMB insists there is no fee hike — and the structure approved since 2019 remains firmly in place.
