The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has clarified that candidates already enrolled in tertiary institutions are not barred from registering for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), dismissing widespread claims suggesting otherwise. The clarification follows what the Board described as a misleading interpretation of its directives concerning the 2026 UTME and Direct Entry registration process.
According to a statement issued from the Office of the Registrar, the Board expressed concern over what it termed a deliberate distortion of its guidelines by individuals allegedly seeking public attention through inaccurate information circulating online.
Misinterpretation of Guidelines Sparks Confusion
Akahi News gathered that confusion arose after sections of the UTME advertisement were interpreted to mean that candidates currently studying in universities or other tertiary institutions could not sit for the examination again. JAMB, however, explained that this interpretation is incorrect.
The Board stated that it is not an offence for a candidate to register for UTME or Direct Entry while still enrolled in an institution. What remains mandatory, however, is the disclosure of existing matriculation status during registration. Failure to make such disclosure, the Board warned, constitutes an offence under its regulations.
Observers noted that similar misunderstandings tend to emerge during registration cycles, often fuelled by incomplete reading of official guidelines or deliberate misrepresentation for online engagement.
Disclosure Requirement and Multiple Admissions Rule
In its clarification, JAMB reiterated that Nigerian law does not permit candidates to hold two admissions simultaneously. The disclosure requirement, therefore, serves administrative and legal purposes, ensuring that once a candidate secures a new admission, any previous admission automatically ceases to exist.
Akahi News learnt that the Board’s system is capable of detecting prior matriculation records. Candidates who fail to declare their status risk losing both opportunities if discrepancies are discovered later in the admission process.
Education analysts believe the clarification is aimed at discouraging what the Board described as the growing trend of professional examination takers — individuals who repeatedly sit for examinations without genuine academic intent.
Warning Against Misleading Information
JAMB also advised candidates and parents to rely on official communication channels when seeking information about admissions and registration procedures. The Board cautioned the public against relying on self-styled education commentators who allegedly spread distorted interpretations for personal gain.
Analysts say the clarification underscores the need for improved information literacy among candidates, especially in an era where social media narratives can easily overshadow official communication.
Implications for Candidates and Institutions
The latest clarification provides relief to students seeking to change institutions or programmes through another UTME attempt. It also reinforces the importance of transparency during registration, which education stakeholders say will help reduce admission irregularities and administrative conflicts.
As the 2026 UTME registration progresses, stakeholders expect further sensitisation efforts to prevent misinformation and ensure candidates understand the rules guiding admissions into tertiary institutions.
In the meantime, Akahi News gathered that candidates are encouraged to carefully read official instructions and seek clarification from authorised sources before making registration decisions.
The development highlights the continuing need for clear communication between regulatory bodies and candidates, especially during critical academic processes that affect thousands of students nationwide.
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