The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is the official body responsible for overseeing entrance examinations into Nigeria’s higher institutions. One of the most common queries from prospective candidates each year is regarding the cost of JAMB registration. This is particularly important for students and parents who need to budget accordingly.
According to recent data from JAMB and the Ministry of Education, the registration fee has been standardized to make it more affordable for a wider range of students. In 2025, the cost of JAMB registration remains crucial for students aiming to access tertiary education.
Two recent figures highlight the importance of this registration:
- Over 2 million candidates registered for the JAMB exam in 2023 alone, showing its significant role in the Nigerian education system.
- In the past 3 years, JAMB has reduced the registration fee by approximately 30%, as part of efforts to make education more accessible.
This article will provide a detailed breakdown of the JAMB registration fees, additional charges, and related costs.
Breakdown of JAMB Registration Fees
JAMB’s official registration fee for the 2025 examination cycle is ₦4,700. This fee covers the following:
- Examination Fee – ₦3,500: This is the core fee that candidates must pay to take the exam.
- Reading Text – ₦500: Each candidate is required to purchase a compulsory reading text, which is included in the registration package.
- CBT Service Charge – ₦700: This fee covers the administrative and technical costs of the Computer-Based Test (CBT) system.
The total registration cost adds up to ₦4,700. However, candidates should also be aware of some additional costs that may apply, depending on their circumstances.
Additional Costs to Consider
- Mock Examination (Optional) – ₦1,000: Candidates who opt to take the JAMB Mock Exam, which is designed to familiarize them with the CBT system, will pay an extra ₦1,000.
- E-PIN Purchase Fee – ₦500 to ₦700: Some registration centers charge a small fee for generating the E-PIN, which is required for successful registration.
It is important to note that these additional charges are not mandatory unless a candidate chooses to take the mock exam or uses a specific center with E-PIN fees.
Comparing JAMB Fees Over Time
JAMB registration fees have remained stable since the 2019 reduction, which saw a decrease from ₦5,000 to ₦3,500 for the core registration. This reduction has been hailed as a step towards making tertiary education more affordable for students across Nigeria. The ₦4,700 total fee for 2025 is inclusive of reading materials and CBT charges, representing an all-inclusive registration package.
Comparatively, the registration fee in Nigeria is lower than in many other West African countries. For example:
- In Ghana, the cost of their tertiary entrance exams averages ₦7,000.
- In Cameroon, fees for similar exams range between ₦5,500 and ₦6,000.
Conclusion & Actionable Advice
The cost of JAMB registration in 2025 is ₦4,700, covering all essential fees. Candidates should budget an extra ₦1,000 if they wish to take the mock exam, and be prepared for potential E-PIN generation fees.
Actionable Advice for Candidates:
- Register Early: Candidates should aim to register as soon as the portal opens to avoid last-minute rushes and ensure they get their preferred exam center.
- Prepare for the Exam: Utilize the reading text provided in the registration package and explore free online practice tests to familiarize yourself with the CBT format.
- Mock Exam: If you are unfamiliar with the CBT format, consider opting for the mock exam to improve your confidence.