The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially extended the Direct Entry (DE) registration deadline to Friday, May 8, 2026.
This “lifeline” comes as a relief to thousands of diploma and A-level holders who have faced hurdles in the verification process. The Board cited the need to provide a level playing field for all candidates, particularly those awaiting the authentication of their results from various awarding institutions.
The “Why” Behind the Extension
JAMB’s decision wasn’t just about extra time; it was about verification integrity:
- A-Level Verification: JAMB is currently using the Nigeria Post-secondary Education Data System (NIPEDS) to verify certificates. Delays in institutions responding to verification requests left many candidates stuck in “pending” status.
- The “Fairness” Factor: Registrar Prof. Is-haq Oloyede emphasized that no candidate should be disenfranchised due to bureaucratic delays outside their control.
- Biometric Hurdles: The extension also accounts for candidates who experienced technical glitches during the mandatory biometric capture at JAMB Professional Test Centres (PTCs).
What Candidates Need to Do Now
If you are among those still trying to register, here are the non-negotiables for this final window:
- The New Deadline: The portal will close permanently at 11:59 PM on May 8, 2026.
- Verification Status: Check with your awarding institution (Polytechnic, College of Education, or IJMB/JUPEB center) to ensure they have responded to the NIPEDS verification request.
- No Third-Party Sites: JAMB reiterated that registration must be completed at JAMB-approved centres. Any registration done through “cybercafés” remains invalid.
The “No Results, No DE” Policy
The Board has maintained a strict stance for 2026: candidates with “Statement of Results” that are older than three years will not be accepted. You must possess the actual certificate or a verifiable digital equivalent to move forward.
