If you are writing JAMB in 2026, one important thing you need to pay attention to is the JAMB 2026 Change of Institution Deadline. Every year, candidates ask about the closing date for JAMB change of course and institution, because it affects admission chances directly. The truth is that the deadline for JAMB change of institution 2026 will decide how much time you have to switch to another school, while the JAMB correction of data 2026 gives you the chance to fix errors or update your choices before admission ends.
Many students end up using this option. But frankly speaking, the score you get in UTME might not be enough for the first choice you selected. Other times, the competition for a particular course is just too high. Some candidates even change because they prefer another school, or they find a better opportunity elsewhere. Whatever the reason, knowing the JAMB change of institution closing date 2026 helps you plan ahead and avoid missing out.
Another thing to note is that the deadline for JAMB change of course 2026 is not only about JAMB itself. Schools also have their own timelines for post-UTME or screening. If you wait until a school has closed its application, changing to that school won’t help. That’s why understanding both JAMB’s deadline and the school’s deadline is necessary.
In this guide, you’ll see everything you need to know about the JAMB 2026 change of institution process, the fee, the steps to follow, and the best time to make changes without stress.
What is the JAMB 2026 Change of Institution Deadline?
The deadline is the last date you can log into JAMB’s system and switch your school choice. For 2026, JAMB has not yet given an official date (since it’s still early). But if we go by past years, the portal stays open until the end of the admission process.
That means if your chosen school hasn’t finished their admission exercise, you can still switch to them. Once the admission window closes, the portal shuts down too.
Avoid the last-minute rush. Some schools stop accepting changes earlier because their post-UTME or screening process is already done.
Why Do Students Change Institution or Course?
You might be wondering, why would anyone want to change schools after registering for JAMB? Well, here are some common reasons:
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Cut-off mark issues – the cut-off score you have may be below the school you selected as your first choice.
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Too much competition – University of Lagos (UNILAG), UI, UNN, UNILORIN, ABU Zaria and many others attract massive applicants every year.
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Different career plans – sometimes students realize another course is a better fit.
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Relocation – family or personal reasons may push someone to choose a school closer to home.
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Admission chances – candidates often switch to polytechnics or colleges of education when universities are out of reach.
Honestly, whatever your reason is, JAMB gives you that flexibility.
How Much Does It Cost?
The official fee from JAMB is ₦2,500 for each change. If you’re doing it at a CBT center or café, you might pay an extra service charge of around ₦1,000. So budget about ₦3,500.
And yes, you can do more than one correction. You will only be allowed to change institution or course up to two times according to JAMB. After that, the system may block further changes.
Step-by-Step Guide to JAMB 2026 Change of Institution
Alright, let’s break it down like a checklist:
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Visit the official JAMB e-Facility portal and log in through www.portal.jamb.gov.ng
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On your dashboard, click Correction of Data.
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Select Course/Institution from the dropdown.
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Choose the exam year: 2026.
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Enter your JAMB registration number and search your details.
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Make payment of ₦2,500 through Remita or available options.
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Once payment is confirmed, you’ll be redirected back.
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Now select your new institution and/or course.
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Double-check everything (school, faculty, course).
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Click Submit and print out the slip.
That’s it. If you’re doing it at a CBT center, just give them your profile code, pay the fee, and they’ll handle the process.
Important Things to Note Before Changing Institution
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Check eligibility: Make sure the new school is still selling post-UTME or has not finished admission.
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Cut-off marks: Don’t pick a school that’s way above your JAMB score.
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Limited changes: You can only change a couple of times. Use them wisely.
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Cross-check details: A small mistake (like wrong course code) can delay your admission.
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Follow up on CAPS: After changing, log into JAMB CAPS to confirm your new choice reflects.
When Is the Best Time to Do It?
Here’s some advice: don’t rush blindly, but also don’t wait too late. The best time is:
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Right after JAMB releases results, when you can compare your score with schools’ cut-off marks.
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Or before your preferred school’s post-UTME deadline.
Waiting until admission is almost over is risky. By then, some schools would have closed their doors.
FAQs on JAMB 2026 Change of Institution Deadline
Q: Can I change institution after post-UTME?
A: Yes, if the school still accepts candidates, but some schools stop after their exams.
Q: How many times can I change?
A: Usually twice. Don’t waste the chance.
Q: If after submitting I realize there is a mistake, what will i do?
A: You’ll need to pay again and reapply.
Q: Is the deadline the same for everyone?
A: Not exactly. JAMB’s portal deadline is national, but each school may have its own cut-off time.
Conclusion
Well, here’s the bottom line: don’t play with deadlines. The JAMB portal may still be open late into the year, but schools work with their own calendar. If you want to change institution or course for 2026, do it early, confirm on CAPS, and stay alert to school announcements.
Honestly, securing admission is not just about passing JAMB—it’s about making smart choices at the right time.
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