JAMB: No plans to increase 2026 UTME, direct entry fees

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) says it has no intention of increasing the fees for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) forms.

In its Weekly Bulletin released on Monday, the Board assured parents, guardians, and prospective candidates that application fees have not been raised in the last nine years.

Instead, JAMB noted that costs were reviewed downward during the period of the current administration.

According to the Board, any future adjustment would only be considered if absolutely necessary to maintain the credibility and quality of the examination process.

JAMB added that its decision is in line with President Bola Tinubu’s directive — conveyed through the Minister of Education — that its operations should reflect the government’s people-focused policies and the economic situation of Nigerian families.

The Board explained that the clarification became necessary to help families plan ahead, stressing that the cost of the 2026 exercise remains largely the same as last year.

It also encouraged parents to prepare early and ensure timely registration, warning that the registration window will not be extended.

Despite the downward review of fees, JAMB said it has continued to run efficiently and has made significant remittances to the Federal Government, demonstrating transparency and responsible financial management.

JAMB reaffirmed its commitment to fairness, affordability, and international best practices in the conduct of its examinations.

Sales of the 2026 UTME forms will run from Friday, January 31, 2026, to Saturday, March 8, 2026.