JAMB has set October 31, 2026 as deadline for university admissions, with separate timelines for private institutions and polytechnics

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has fixed new deadlines for the conclusion of the 2025/2026 admission exercise into tertiary institutions across Nigeria, setting a clear timetable for universities, polytechnics and colleges of education.

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The decision was reached on Monday during the 2026 JAMB Annual Policy Meeting on Admissions held in Abuja, where key education stakeholders reviewed admission processes nationwide.

Under the new directive, all public universities are expected to complete their admission processes on or before October 31, 2026.

Private universities have been given an extended deadline of November 30, 2026 to conclude their admission exercises.

Similarly, polytechnics, monotechnics and colleges of education are required to wrap up admissions not later than December 31, 2026.

The announcement forms part of efforts to standardise admission timelines across tertiary institutions and ensure a more structured academic calendar.

Education stakeholders at the meeting, including vice-chancellors and rectors, emphasised the need for uniformity in admission procedures to improve efficiency and planning within the sector.

The policy meeting also served as a platform to address broader issues affecting tertiary education, including access, capacity and adherence to national academic schedules.

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The newly introduced timelines are expected to guide institutions in managing admission lists more effectively while reducing delays in academic sessions.