In a major move toward inclusivity, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has announced a comprehensive support system for Persons With Disabilities (PWD), including full refund of registration fees for blind, deaf, and wheelchair users who meet minimum academic requirements.
The announcement, contained in the 2026 UTME/DE guidelines, marks one of JAMB's most progressive steps toward ensuring equal access to tertiary education for all Nigerians.
Full Registration Fee Refund for PWD
| Category | Refund Policy | Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Candidates | 100% refund | Must possess required 5 credits |
| Deaf Candidates | 100% refund | Must possess required 5 credits |
| Wheelchair Users | 100% refund | Must possess required 5 credits |
"To promote inclusivity, the Board fully refunds registration fees to the blind, the deaf and those on wheel chairs who possess the required 5 credits at the point of registration."
If you're blind, deaf, or use a wheelchair and have 5 O'level credits (including English and Mathematics), you register normally but receive a complete refund of your ₦7,200-₦8,700 registration fee.
JAMB has created specific categories to ensure appropriate support for different disabilities:
Category 1: Visual Impairment
| Disability | How to Indicate | Special Provision |
|---|---|---|
| Blind/Visually Impaired | Select BLIND from dropdown | Assigned to closest JEOG centre + Fee refund |
Category 2: Hearing Impairment
| Disability | How to Indicate | Special Provision |
|---|---|---|
| Deaf/Mute | Special indicator created | Identified for special attention + Fee refund |
Category 3: Mobility Impairment
| Disability | How to Indicate | Special Provision |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelchair Users | Indicate at registration | Special arrangements + Fee refund |
Category 4: Other Disabilities
| Disability Type | Examples | How to Register |
|---|---|---|
| Neurological | Autism, Down Syndrome | Click appropriate box |
| Learning Disabilities | Dyslexia, ADHD | Click appropriate box |
| Physical Disabilities | Amputees, Lame, Paralysed | Click appropriate box |
| Medical Conditions | Cerebral Palsy, Albinism | Click appropriate box |
| Other Disfigurements | Various conditions | Click appropriate box |
All these candidates are assigned to JAMB Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG) centres for special attention.
JAMB has established JEOG (JAMB Equal Opportunity Group) centres specifically for PWD candidates:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Provide accessible, supportive exam environment |
| Equipment | Specialised equipment for different disabilities |
| Staff | Trained personnel to assist PWD candidates |
| Location | Strategically placed across Nigeria |
During registration, PWD candidates select BLIND or indicate their disability type, and the system automatically assigns them to the closest JEOG centre.
JAMB recognises that some PWD candidates may have biometric abnormalities that make standard fingerprint capture impossible.
Special Registration Process
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Register | Can only register at JAMB Abuja Headquarters |
| 2. Travel Support | Board will facilitate travel to Abuja |
| 3. Special Equipment | Alternative biometric capture methods used |
| 4. Examination | Also write exam at Abuja Headquarters |
"Candidates with biometric abnormalities can only register and take examination at the Abuja Headquarters of the Board. The Board will facilitate their travels."
Candidates whose fingerprints cannot be captured due to:
- Severe burns
- Congenital conditions
- Amputations affecting all fingers
- Other physical conditions preventing capture
Blind candidates have additional options:
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard CBT | With screen reader technology |
| Braille | If preferred and available |
| Oral Examination | In special circumstances |
| Extended Time | Additional time allowance |
Candidates indicate their preferred mode during registration.
Registration Process for PWD
| Step | Action | Special Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Generate Profile Code | Family member may assist with SMS |
| 2 | Purchase e-PIN | Can be done by guardian |
| 3 | Visit CBT Centre** | Must appear personally or go to Abuja HQ |
| 4 | Indicate Disability** | Select from dropdown options |
| 5 | Choose JEOG Centre** | System auto-assigns closest centre |
| 6 | Biometric Capture** | Special arrangements if needed |
| 7 | Complete Registration** | Same as other candidates |
| 8 | Receive Refund** | Automatic for blind/deaf/wheelchair users |
While guardians can assist with preliminary steps, the candidate must appear personally for biometric capture (except those with biometric abnormalities who go to Abuja).
Documents Required by PWD Candidates
In addition to standard requirements:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Medical Report | Confirming disability status |
| Disability ID Card | If available |
| School Letter | Confirming disability (for current students) |
| Standard O'Level Results | Same 5 credits requirement |
| NIN | Same as other candidates |
Academic Requirements Remain the Same
JAMB emphasised that while providing support, academic standards are maintained:
| Programme | O'Level Requirement | Same as Other Candidates? |
|---|---|---|
| Degree | 5 credits (including English & Maths) | Yes |
| ND/NCE | 4 credits (including English) | Yes |
| UTME Score | Same cut-off marks | Yes |
PWD candidates get support and accommodations, but must meet the same academic standards.
How to Get Refunds
| Step | Process |
|---|---|
| 1 | Pay standard registration fee (₦7,200-₦8,700) |
| 2 | Indicate disability status during registration |
| 3 | Upload proof of 5 O'level credits |
| 4 | JAMB verifies eligibility |
| 5 | Automatic refund processed |
| 6 | Refund sent to candidate's account/phone |
Refund typically processed within 2-4 weeks of registration.
How to Access Support
| For Information | Contact Method |
|---|---|
| General Inquiries | JAMB website: www.jamb.gov.ng |
| Phone Support | +234 812 365 8955, +234 816 633 5513 |
| Ticketing System | Free online support via Ticket/Support |
| Abuja HQ | JAMB National Headquarters, Bwari, Abuja |
| State Offices | JAMB offices in all 36 states |
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