The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has clarified that candidates already enrolled in tertiary institutions may register for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE), but must formally declare their matriculation status. Failure to do so could result in the loss of both current and new admissions.

The Board’s Public Communication Adviser, Dr Fabian Benjamin, stated on Wednesday, noting that some “self-styled education advocates” had misrepresented JAMB’s guidelines, creating confusion among candidates and parents.

Dr Benjamin said, “Registering for UTME or DE while still enrolled in another institution is not prohibited. However, failing to disclose that status is considered an offence under JAMB regulations.”

He explained that disclosure ensures candidates do not hold two admissions simultaneously, as the law explicitly forbids multiple matriculations. Once a candidate secures a new admission through UTME/DE registration, any previous admission automatically ceases to exist.

The Board highlighted that mandatory disclosure has become even more critical after discovering that some matriculated students were involved in examination malpractice as hired test takers.

 “Disclosure expedites appropriate action whenever such candidates are apprehended,” Benjamin noted.

JAMB’s systems are capable of detecting previous matriculation records, and candidates who fail to declare their status risk forfeiting both their existing and newly obtained admissions.

The Board also warned the public against misleading narratives from unofficial “education advocates,” urging parents and candidates to consult official JAMB guidelines rather than rely on distorted interpretations.

Registration for the 2026 UTME began on January 26, and only Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres with remote monitoring capabilities will be permitted to administer the exam. This policy, tagged “No Vision, No Registration, No UTME,” aims to reduce irregularities and strengthen confidence in the examination process.