JAMB Registration Guide for Direct Entry, International, and Special Candidates

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is the body responsible for overseeing the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Nigeria. The exam allows students to secure admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. JAMB also conducts registration for candidates who qualify through Direct Entry, as well as special categories like international candidates and persons with disabilities.

This guide offers complete instructions for Direct Entry, international, and special candidates planning to register for JAMB. It explains requirements, steps, deadlines, and more, making the process as clear as possible.

Direct Entry Registration

Direct Entry (DE) is a special route for candidates looking to enter the second year of a university program. Applicants typically hold qualifications such as National Diploma (ND), Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE), Higher National Diploma (HND), or A-level certificates.

Requirements for Direct Entry Registration

• Academic Qualifications: Applicants must hold an advanced qualification like ND, NCE, or HND. The minimum grade is usually a Lower Credit, though requirements may vary across institutions.
• JAMB E-PIN: Applicants must purchase an E-PIN, which is used during registration. The PIN can be obtained at banks, JAMB offices, or online.
• Profile Creation: Candidates must create a profile on the JAMB portal. This involves providing a valid email address, phone number, and personal information.
• O-Level Results: Applicants need to upload their O-Level results. Accepted exams include WAEC, NECO, or GCE. The results can be uploaded during registration or afterward when available.
• Personal Details: Applicants must provide information like date of birth, local government area, and nationality.

Steps for Direct Entry Registration

1. Purchase JAMB E-PIN: Get the registration PIN from an authorized vendor.
2. Create a Profile: Visit the JAMB portal and create your profile by providing an active email and phone number.
3. Biometric Capture: Visit an accredited JAMB CBT center for biometric capture. This step ensures authenticity.
4. Fill Out the Online Form: Provide your academic qualifications, personal information, and choice of institution.
5. Submit and Print Slip: Submit the form online and print your registration slip for reference. It contains your registration number, which is essential for future use.

International Candidates

International candidates include Nigerians living abroad and foreign nationals wishing to study in Nigeria. JAMB registration for these candidates involves additional steps to cater to differences in academic systems and residency.

Requirements for International Candidates

• Valid Passport: A valid international passport is mandatory for identity verification.
• O-Level Equivalent: International candidates must provide an equivalent of the Nigerian O-Level certificate. This could be IGCSE or any other recognized certificate.
• JAMB E-PIN: The E-PIN is still required for registration, which can be obtained online.
• Profile Creation: Candidates need to create a JAMB profile, as it is a necessary step for accessing the portal.
• Accredited CBT Center: International candidates must complete their registration at an accredited JAMB center or through specially designated centers abroad.

Steps for International Candidate Registration

1. Purchase JAMB E-PIN: This can be done online from the JAMB website.
2. Create a Profile: Register on the JAMB portal by providing an email, phone number, and other personal details.
3. O-Level Submission: Submit your O-Level equivalent results during registration.
4. Biometric Capture: Visit a designated JAMB center for biometric verification. International centers are available for this purpose.
5. Submit the Form: Complete the registration and submit. Print your registration slip for future reference.

Special Candidates (Persons with Disabilities)

JAMB offers special provisions for candidates with disabilities, ensuring that they have equal opportunities to access tertiary education. These provisions cater to visual, hearing, and other physical impairments.

Requirements for Special Candidates

• Medical Report: Candidates must provide a medical report that specifies their type of disability. This report helps JAMB offer the appropriate support.
• JAMB E-PIN: Like other candidates, special candidates must purchase an E-PIN for registration.
• Profile Creation: Candidates need to create a profile on the JAMB portal, following the same steps as regular candidates.
• Special Arrangements: JAMB provides additional support, such as separate centers for visually impaired candidates, or extra time during the examination.

Steps for Registration of Special Candidates

1. Obtain JAMB E-PIN: Purchase the registration PIN through any accredited channel.
2. Profile Registration: Set up your profile by providing your email, phone number, and other necessary details.
3. Submit Medical Report: Provide the medical report at the CBT center during registration. The report will help determine if any accommodations are needed.
4. Biometric Capture: Visit an accredited center for biometric capture. Assistance is available for candidates with impairments.
5. Complete Registration: Fill in the required details on the JAMB registration portal and print your slip for reference.

General Guidelines for JAMB Registration

• Deadline Awareness: JAMB announces registration deadlines every year. Candidates must complete their registration within the specified window to avoid disqualification.
• Accredited Centers Only: Always use accredited CBT centers for registration. Non-accredited centers may lead to errors or invalid registration.
• Biometric Verification: All candidates must complete biometric verification. This ensures that only genuine applicants are registered for the examination.
• Profile Code Generation: Before purchasing an E-PIN, candidates must send their full name (SURNAME FIRST) via SMS to 55019 or 66019. A profile code will be sent back, which is used to obtain the E-PIN.

How to Avoid Common Mistakes

• Correct Personal Details: Ensure all personal details, including name, date of birth, and local government area, are entered accurately.
• Accurate O-Level Information: Upload the correct O-Level results. Mistakes in subjects or grades can affect your admission prospects.
• Keep Credentials Handy: Have all required documents, such as the ND or NCE certificate, O-Level results, passport photo, and medical reports (for special candidates) ready before starting the registration.

Payment and Registration Process

• E-PIN Purchase: Candidates can purchase the E-PIN through banks, mobile money operators, online platforms, or JAMB offices.
• Registration Fee: The registration fee for JAMB is set each year. Candidates should verify the exact amount on the JAMB portal before making payments.
• Mock Examination Option: During registration, candidates can choose to take a mock examination. This is optional but recommended for those who want to familiarize themselves with the examination process.

After Registration

• Print Exam Slip: After registration, candidates should print the examination slip. This document contains details like the examination date, venue, and time.
• Check for Updates: Keep checking the JAMB portal for any updates regarding examination schedules, reprinting of exam slips, or changes in exam centers.

Support for Candidates

• JAMB Support Centers: JAMB provides support through its accredited CBT centers and regional offices. Candidates can visit these centers for help with registration issues.
• Helpline and Email: JAMB also offers support via helplines and an official email address. These contacts are available on the JAMB portal.
• Correction of Data: If mistakes are found after registration, candidates can apply for data correction. However, this must be done within the time frame provided by JAMB.

Preparation Tips

• Study Materials: Use recommended textbooks and syllabi provided by JAMB. Past questions can also help you understand the exam format.
• Mock Exams: Participating in the JAMB mock exam can help you get comfortable with the testing environment.
• Time Management: Practice effective time management when preparing for the exam. Each subject has a set time limit, and practicing under timed conditions can help.

Conclusion

JAMB registration for Direct Entry, international, and special candidates involves different requirements and steps. Understanding these specifics is key to a smooth registration process. Always use accredited centers, adhere to deadlines, and ensure that all provided information is accurate. For special candidates, JAMB offers accommodations that level the playing field, so take advantage of these supports. International candidates must also ensure their qualifications meet Nigerian standards for O-Level equivalency.

FAQs