The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) organizes admissions into Nigerian universities through different routes. One important pathway is Direct Entry (DE), which allows candidates who already hold recognized qualifications beyond secondary school to apply for admission into 200-level rather than 100-level.
This well written piece of article explains everything you need to know about JAMB Direct Entry registration date 2026/2027 and the JAMB Direct Entry deadline date 2026/2027, including eligibility, how to apply for the 2026 jamb direct entry, requirements, costs, deadlines, and frequently asked questions.
WHAT IS JAMB DIRECT ENTRY REGISTRATION
JAMB Direct Entry registration is a specific application process designed for candidates who do not need to sit the regular Jamb UTME exams because they already possess advanced qualifications. Instead, qualified candidates apply through JAMB to be considered for admission into higher levels (usually 200 level) in Nigerian universities and other tertiary institutions. Direct Entry applicants are different from UTME candidates, and the registration rules and requirements are tailored to their qualifications and academic background.
QUALIFICATIONS ELIGIBLE FOR DIRECT ENTRY
To be eligible for JAMB Direct Entry, you must already possess one of the following qualifications at the time of application:
- A-Level Certificate
- National Diploma (ND)
- Higher National Diploma (HND)
- National Certificate in Education (NCE)
- First Degree from a recognized institution
- Other equivalent advanced qualifications
These credentials allow you to bypass the standard UTME and seek direct admission into 200-level programs provided you meet the specific entry requirements of your chosen institution.
WHY APPLY THROUGH DIRECT ENTRY
Reasons why most students use Direct Entry are as follows:
- You won ‘t need to sit the UTME exam
- You can target higher levels of study immediately
- The process focuses on your existing qualifications rather than a fresh exam score (New jamb exams)
- It streamlines your application into universities or tertiary colleges
Jamb Direct Entry is often used by diploma holders, degree holders, NCE result holders and candidates with A-Level results who wish to further their education quickly and efficiently.
HOW TO REGISTER FOR JAMB DIRECT ENTRY 2026: GUIDE FOR NEWBIES
Below is a well detailed steps for students who are yet to engage themselves for the 2026 Jamb Direct Entry
1. CREATE YOUR JAMB PROFILE
Your JAMB profile is essential before any registration. To create it:
- Use your valid National Identification Number (NIN)
- Log in to the JAMB registration system using your email address and password
- If you already have a profile from previous UTME or DE activities, you can use the same login details
Your profile will allow you to access the Direct Entry registration option once it is open.
2. PURCHASE THE DIRECT ENTRY PIN
Before you fill the Direct Entry form, you must buy a Direct Entry e-PIN. The process usually involves:
- Visiting a JAMB accredited center
- Purchasing the e-PIN online through the registration portal
- Using the profile code you received to access the form
Note: Keep the PIN safe as it is required to complete your registration.
3. FILL OUT THE DIRECT ENTRY FORM
After obtaining the e-PIN:
- Log in to your JAMB profile
- Select the Direct Entry Registration option
- Fill in your personal details, educational qualifications, and preferred institutions
- Carefully choose your course of study and institutions in order of preference
- Double-check all entries before submission
At this stage, ensuring accurate information is crucial because errors may affect your chances of admission.
4. BIOMETRIC ENROLLMENT
Direct Entry registration requires a biometric capturing at a JAMB-accredited CBT (Computer Based Test) center. During this step:
- Your photograph will be captured
- Your fingerprints will be captured
- Your identity will be verified before finalizing your registration
Biometric enrollment is mandatory and must be completed in person at the center.
5. REVIEW AND SUBMIT
Once all details are entered and your biometrics captured:
- Submit your application through the portal
- Print your registration slip
- This slip is your proof of registration and will contain your details and chosen institutions
Retaining the registration slip is important because it may be requested later in the admission process.
JAMB DIRECT ENTRY APPLICATION FORM 2026: COST OF DIRECT ENTRY REGISTRATION FORM
The Direct Entry registration fee is usually a standard amount set by JAMB for each year’s exercise. This fee covers your application and qualification verification. The cost is paid once during the registration process before you complete your form.
DIRECT ENTRY DEADLINE
The Direct Entry registration window is limited, and candidates must complete their applications before the deadline. The exercise typically opens shortly after UTME registration has closed and remains open for a specified period. Missing the deadline means you may not be able to apply for that year’s admissions.
CAN YOU CONVERT UTME TO DIRECT ENTRY?
Yes. If you previously registered for UTME and later qualify for Direct Entry due to advanced qualifications, you can opt to switch from UTME to Direct Entry. The process involves:
- Logging into your profile
- Choosing the UTME to Direct Entry conversion option
- Paying the applicable fees
- Completing the registration for Direct Entry
This conversion allows candidates who originally registered for UTME to apply through the Direct Entry method if they fulfill eligibility requirements.
DOCUMENTS AND REQUIREMENTS
To successfully register for Direct Entry, ensure you have the following:
- Valid JAMB registration e-PIN
- Birth certificate or age declaration
- O’Level results (e.g., WAEC/NECO/NABTEB)
- Advanced qualification certificates like ND, NCE, A-Level, HND, or degree
- Local government identification or equivalent documentation
Having all necessary documents ready before registration will help avoid delays or mistakes.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
What is Direct Entry?
Direct Entry is a JAMB registration route for candidates who hold advanced qualifications and wish to gain direct admission into 200 level instead of writing UTME.
Do Direct Entry candidates write UTME?
No. Direct Entry applicants are not required to sit the UTME examination, but institutions may conduct their own screening or post-UTME exercise.
Can awaiting results be used?
In many cases, you can apply with pending results, but your results must be available by the time the institution begins admissions.
Can you choose more than one school?
Yes, you can select multiple institutions in your preference list during registration.
Can you combine O’Level results?
Yes, combining results from O’Level exams like WAEC and NECO is allowed if they collectively meet entry requirements.
What happens if you miss the deadline?
If you miss the Direct Entry registration deadline, you will not be able to apply for that year’s admissions.
IN SUMMARY
JAMB Direct Entry registration offers a valuable opportunity for candidates with advanced academic qualifications to seek admission into Nigerian universities without sitting UTME. It involves creating a profile, purchasing a Direct Entry PIN, filling the application form online, capturing biometrics at an accredited center, and completing the process before the deadline. With accurate preparation and valid documents, Direct Entry can be less stressful and faster compared to the traditional UTME route.