JAMB Warns 2026 UTME Candidates Against False Information, Says Offenders Risk Losing Admission

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB)has issued a strong warning to candidates registering forthe 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination(UTME ), cautioning them against providing false ormisleading information during the registrationprocess .

According to the board, candidates who submit incorrect personal or academic details risk losing their admission and may face additional sanctions , including being barred from future examinations and possible prosecution .

JAMB said the warning is part of its effort to protect the integrity of the admission process and ensure that only qualified and honest candidates gain access to tertiary institutions.

False Information Could Lead to Severe Sanctions

JAMB explained that any form of registration infraction is considered a serious offence . This includes deliberately altering personal data, falsifying academic records, or submitting documents that do not belong to the candidate .

Offenders, the board said, may be banned from participatinginUTME for up to three years . In some cases, their names may also be made public as part ofdisciplinary measures .

The examination body stressed that false information does not only affect the registration stage but can also cause problems during admission screening and clearance by institutions.

Attestation Clause Makes Candidates Fully Responsible

JAMB linked its warning to the attestation clause included in the registration process .

During registration , candidates are required to sign a declaration confirming that all information and documents submitted are genuine and accurate . By signing this clause, candidates accept full responsibility for their entries .

The board said the attestation clause serves as a legal and administrative safeguard, making it easier to hold candidates accountable if false information is later discovered .

It also helps to reduce disputes and legal challenges that may arise after registration or admission decisions .

Common Areas Where Candidates Make Mistakes

JAMB noted that many problems in previous admission exercises were traced to errors and misrepresentation in key areas such as :

• Incorrect spelling or arrangement of names

• Wrong date of birth

• Inconsistent personal details across documents

• Incorrect O’Level subjects or grades

• Use of results that cannot be verified

• Failure to disclose required personal or academic status

While the board acknowledged that minor mistakes canhappen , it warned that deliberately changing informationto gain advantage will not be tolerated .

Candidates were advised to take time to review everysection of their registration before submission .

Warning to Already Matriculated Students

JAMB also addressed candidates who are already enrolled in tertiary institutions and still wish to register for UTME .

According to the board, such candidates must honestly disclose their status where required during registration .Failure to do so may lead to the cancellation of both their existing admission and any new admission secured through UTME .

The board said non -disclosure of relevant information is regarded as an act of dishonesty and will attract penalties when discovered .

Use Only Accredited Registration Centres

The examination body warned candidates against using unaccredited centres , roadside agents , or unverified middlemen to handle their registration .

JAMB explained that many cases of altered or incorrect data occur when candidates hand over their details to authorized individuals .

Candidates were encouraged to register only at approvedComputer -Based Test (CBT )centres , where proper procedures are followed and entries can be verified before submission .

Accredited centres , JAMB said , also allow candidates to confirm their information on -screen before finalizing the process .

Registration Deadline Will Not Be Extended

JAMB reminded candidates that the 2026 UTME registrationhas a fixed closing date and that no extension will be granted .

The board advised candidates to avoid waiting until the final days, when overcrowding and pressure can lead to errors .

Late registration , it noted , often results in rushed decisions , incomplete reviews , and costly mistakes that could affect admission chances .

Importance of Keeping Registration Records

Candidates were advised to keep copies of all registration document , including :

• Registration slips

• Payment receipts

• Confirmation printouts

• Any correction records

JAMB said these documents may be needed later during admission screening , clearance , or complaint resolution .

Keeping both physical and digital copies wasrecommended for safety .

JAMB Reaffirms Commitment to Examination Integrity

The board reiterated its commitment to maintaining fairness and transparency in the examination and admission process .

It said it would continue to work with relevant government agencies and institutions to monitor compliance and enforce its rules .

JAMB added that its goal is not to punish candidates unnecessarily but to encourage honesty , accuracy , and responsibility throughout the admission system .

Advice to Candidates and Parents

JAMB urged candidates , parents , and guardians to treatthe registration process with seriousness and patience .

Candidates were encouraged to :

• Prepare correct personal and academic details in advance

• Read all instructions carefully

• Ask questions at accredited centres when unsure

• Review all entries before signing the attestation clause

Parents and guardians were also advised to guide candidates without pressuring them to manipulate records or seek shortcuts .

The examination body stressed that UTME registration is the foundation of the entire admission process . Any false information entered at this stage can have long -term consequences .

JAMB therefore advised all 2026 UTME candidates to register honestly, verify their details thoroughly, and comply fully with established guidelines to avoid losing their opportunityforadmission.