By Favour Pius
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has extended the registration deadline for the 2026 Direct Entry (DE) exercise to May 8, 2026, to allow more candidates complete the process.
The examination body also announced the addition of five new registration centres across the country to ease congestion and improve access for applicants.
In a statement, JAMB said the extension followed requests from prospective candidates who encountered delays during the initial registration period, as well as ongoing efforts to streamline the process.
The board urged candidates yet to register to take advantage of the extension, warning that no further grace period would be granted after the new deadline.
It also advised applicants to complete their registration only at accredited centres to avoid errors and possible disqualification.
JAMB noted that the newly approved centres are expected to reduce pressure on existing facilities and ensure a smoother registration experience nationwide.
The Direct Entry programme allows candidates with advanced qualifications such as diplomas, National Certificates of Education (NCE) and degrees to gain admission into universities without sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Stakeholders in the education sector have welcomed the extension, describing it as timely, particularly for candidates in remote areas who may have faced logistical challenges.
The board reiterated its commitment to conducting a transparent and efficient admission process, adding that it would continue to deploy technology and expand infrastructure to enhance service delivery.
