JAMB
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JAMB has denied reports of a registration fee hike for the 2026 UTME and Direct Entry exams, confirming that charges have remained unchanged since 2019. According to JAMB’s Public Communication Advisor, Fabian Benjamin, the fees are as follows: ₦5,700 for Direct Entry, ₦7,200 for UTME only (without mock), and ₦8,700 for UTME with mock.
The breakdown of charges includes an application fee of ₦3,500, reading text (₦1,000), CBT centre registration service charge (₦700), CBT centre UTME service charge (₦1,500), bank charges (₦500), and CBT mock-UTME centre charge (₦1,500) where applicable.
JAMB attributes the perceived increase in fees to the enforcement of a cashless policy, consolidating all fees payable by candidates to CBT centres. The board emphasizes that the actual cost of registration remains the same, with the ₦3,500 application fee unchanged since 2018.
In a statement, JAMB assured candidates, parents, and guardians that there’s no plan to increase fees, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s directive for government agencies to implement “human-face policies” considering economic challenges.
JAMB has maintained the same fee structure despite rising operational costs, urging candidates to disregard false reports and rely on official information. The board also warned against exploitation by unscrupulous individuals or centres, advising candidates to report any overcharging.
The registration fees have actually been reduced under the current administration, with JAMB emphasizing its commitment to transparency, accountability, and protecting candidates’ interests. Any future adjustment in fees would only be considered if necessary to sustain examination integrity.
JAMB encourages early registration, warning that the registration window won’t be extended once it opens. The sale of 2026 UTME application forms begins on January 31, 2026, and ends on March 8, 2026.
The board’s decision reflects its commitment to fairness, transparency, and affordability while maintaining global best practices in examination conduct.
