When Is IJMB Registration for 2026 Starting and Ending?
The Interim Joint Matriculation Board Examination (IJMBE) programme remains one of the best alternatives for students who want to gain admission into Nigerian universities through Direct Entry without relying completely on JAMB UTME. Every year, thousands of candidates across Nigeria apply for the programme because it offers a direct pathway into 200 level in many federal, state, and private universities.
As the 2026/2027 academic session approaches, many students and parents are asking important questions such as:
When will IJMB registration for 2026 begin?
What is the deadline for registration?
Is the IJMB form already out?
When will lectures commence?
Can late registration still be accepted?
This detailed article explains everything you need to know about IJMB registration dates for 2026, including starting dates, closing dates, examination schedules, registration procedures, requirements, and important tips for applicants.
According to several IJMB registration portals, registration for the 2026/2027 IJMB session has already commenced in many accredited study centres across Nigeria. Most portals indicate that registration began between October 2025 and January 2026, while the official deadlines vary slightly depending on the center.
IJMB Registration 2026 Starting Date
Most accredited IJMB centres announced that registration for the 2026/2027 session officially started between October 2025 and January 2026. Some portals specifically mentioned October 2nd, 2025 as the commencement date, while others stated that registration opened fully on January 1st or January 5th, 2026.
Officially Announced Starting Dates
Registration Information
Date
Early IJMB Registration Opening
October 2, 2025
Full Registration Commencement
January 1, 2026
Main IJMB Registration Activation
January 5, 2026
The variation in dates happens because different IJMB study centres release their forms at different times, even though they all operate under the same IJMB programme coordinated by Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.
IJMB Registration 2026 Closing Date
The closing date for IJMB registration depends on the study centre and admission quota available. However, most portals currently place the deadline between January 31, 2026 and March 2, 2026. Some centres may extend registration till May 2026 if spaces are still available.
Announced IJMB Registration Deadlines
Portal/Source
Closing Date
IJMB Official Portal
March 2, 2026
IJMB Registration Form Portal
January 31, 2026
IJMB.ng Registration Form
February 6, 2026
Some Accredited Centres
May 30, 2026
Because deadlines may change without notice, students are strongly advised to complete their registration early instead of waiting for possible extensions.
Is IJMB Registration Still Ongoing for 2026?
Yes. According to several IJMB registration websites, registration for the 2026/2027 session is still ongoing in many centres nationwide.
Many centres are currently accepting applications from:
Secondary school graduates
Awaiting-result candidates
Candidates who want Direct Entry admission
Students who want to avoid rewriting JAMB repeatedly
IJMB Entrance Examination Date
Some portals announced that the IJMB entrance examination for the 2026 session is expected to take place between April 15 and April 19, 2026.
However, not all centres conduct entrance examinations. In some centres, admission is granted once candidates complete registration and meet the minimum requirements.
When Will IJMB Lectures Start for 2026?
Lectures for the IJMB 2026/2027 academic session are expected to begin around May or June 2026 in most accredited centres.
Expected Academic Calendar
Activity
Expected Date
Registration Begins
October 2025 – January 2026
Registration Deadline
January – March 2026
Entrance Examination
April 15 – 19, 2026
Student Resumption
May 2026
Full Lectures Begin
June 2026
Final IJMB Examination
July 2027
Result Release
September 2027
The IJMB programme usually lasts for about 9–12 months before students sit for the final examination.
Why Students Prefer IJMB
Many Nigerian students now prefer IJMB because it offers several advantages compared to regular UTME admission.
Benefits of IJMB
1. Direct Entry Admission into 200 Level
Successful IJMB candidates can gain admission directly into 200 level in many universities across Nigeria.
2. No Need to Rewrite JAMB Repeatedly
Students who are tired of writing JAMB every year often choose IJMB as an alternative route.
3. Accepted by Many Universities
IJMB is recognized by many federal, state, and private universities in Nigeria.
4. Flexible Admission Opportunity
Students can use IJMB results to apply for different institutions through Direct Entry.
5. Awaiting Result Candidates Can Apply
Most centres allow students awaiting WAEC or NECO results to register.
IJMB Registration Fee for 2026
The registration fee varies slightly depending on the portal or study centre. Most portals currently place the official form fee between ₦8,750 and ₦10,500.
IJMB Fees Breakdown Fee Type Estimated Amount
IJMB Registration Form ₦8,750 – ₦10,500
Acceptance Fee ₦20,000 – ₦40,000
Tuition Fee ₦180,000 – ₦300,000
Accommodation Fee ₦50,000 – ₦120,000
Study Materials ₦10,000 – ₦30,000
The total cost usually depends on the centre, hostel choice, and additional charges.
Requirements for IJMB Registration 2026
To register successfully for IJMB, candidates are usually required to provide the following:
Requirement
Details
O’Level Result
WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB
Passport Photograph
Recent passport
Phone Number
Active contact number
Email Address
Valid email
Parent/Guardian Approval
Required in most centres
NIN
Sometimes requested
Most centres require at least five credit passes relevant to the intended course of study.
How to Register for IJMB 2026
The registration process is mostly online and simple.
Steps for Registration
Visit the official IJMB registration portal
Fill out the application form
Upload required documents
Select your preferred study centre
Choose subject combinations
Pay the registration fee
Print your admission letter and receipt
Applicants are advised to use only trusted IJMB portals to avoid scams and fraudulent registration agents.
Universities That Accept IJMB
IJMB is accepted by many Nigerian universities for Direct Entry admission.
Some Universities Accepting IJMB
Ahmadu Bello University
University of Abuja
University of Ilorin
University of Nigeria
University of Benin
Many private universities also accept IJMB results for admission into 200 level.
Important Things Students Should Know
Before registering for IJMB, students should remember the following:
Register early to secure admission slots
Avoid fake registration websites
Confirm your study centre properly
Prepare financially for tuition and accommodation
Attend lectures regularly after resumption
Choose subject combinations related to your intended university course.