JAMB shifts 2026 Direct Entry deadline to May 8

…opens new centres to ease registration rush

By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

In a decisive move to widen access to higher education, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, has extended the sale of 2026 Direct Entry, DE, application forms to May 8, giving prospective candidates more time to complete their registration.

The Board, in a statement by its communication advisor, Fabian Benjamin, said the extension is part of ongoing efforts to ensure that no eligible applicant is shut out of the admission process.

It also announced the approval of five additional registration centres to address mounting pressure and improve access in key locations.

The newly approved centres include the Centre for Open and Distance Learning (CODL), Mini Campus, University of Ilorin, Kwara State; Bells University of Technology, Ota, Ogun State; Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State; Prof. Usman E-Learning Centre, Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, Oyo State; and Human Development Initiatives (Grace House), Iwaya, Lagos, which is set to commence operations from April 30, 2026.

JAMB reassured candidates that its offices nationwide, including Professional Registration Centres (PRCs) and Professional Testing Centres (PTCs), remain open to facilitate seamless registration.

JAMB, in the statement, reiterated its commitment to expanding opportunities for tertiary education and urged prospective candidates to take advantage of the extended window to complete their applications.