It is that time of the year again. The NYSC Mobilization Time Table is out, and for thousands of Nigerian graduates, the anxiety is kicking in. Whether you are aiming for Batch A, B, or C in 2026, the question on everyone’s lips is: “Has the portal opened?”
“Running into issues with your NYSC mobilization? We recommend reading these detailed resources:”
1º – Date of Birth Error: How to Apply for Correction of Data & Redeployment
2º – How to Print NYSC Call-Up Letter & Locate Your Orientation Camp
3º – No Record Found? How to Check NYSC Senate List & Fix JAMB Regularization
This is the most critical moment of your transition from a graduate to a “Corper.” However, it is also the time when misinformation spreads like wildfire on WhatsApp groups. Scammers posing as “NYSC Agents” will promise you “Direct Posting to Lagos” or “Express Registration” if you pay them N5,000 or N10,000.
There is only one way to register, and there is only one source of truth: The Official NYSC Portal (portal.nysc.org.ng). No agent can access the backend of the NYSC server. If you give them your login details, you risk identity theft.
This guide will walk you through the official registration process, how to access your dashboard safely, and what to do when the portal finally opens.
What You Need to Start (Prerequisites)
Before you rush to the nearest Cyber Cafe to buy a scratch card (PIN), you need to ensure you are actually eligible. You cannot force the system to register you if your data isn’t there.
According to the official requirements, you must have these three things ready:
- Name on the Senate List: Your institution (University or Polytechnic) must have uploaded your name to the NYSC database. If your name is not on the hardcopy list pasted at your Student Affairs department, it won’t be online.
- Active JAMB Matriculation Number: Your JAMB number is your unique ID. If you did “Part-Time” or haven’t regularized your admission, the NYSC portal will reject you.
- Scanned Documents & Biometrics: You need your passport photograph (white background) and your signatures ready. Crucial Warning: You cannot do the biometric capture on your Android phone. You must visit an accredited CBT center with a fingerprint scanner.
Understanding the Dashboard (Green Card vs. Call-up Letter)
Once you have successfully created an account and paid the mobilization fee (usually around N2,500 – N3,000 for the Call-up letter), you will gain access to your NYSC Dashboard.
Many PCMs get confused by the different statuses. Here is the technical breakdown of what you will see:
- Registration Completed: This means you have filled in all forms (Next of Kin, Kit Size, Schools Attended) and submitted. You are now waiting for the NYSC Abuja team to process your deployment.
- Green Card: This is NOT your posting letter. The Green Card is simply an acknowledgement slip that confirms your registration was successful. It contains your personal details and kit specifications. You must print this in color and take it to camp.
- Call-up Letter: This is the “Main Event.” This document usually appears on your dashboard a few days before camp opens. It reveals your State of Deployment and the address of the Orientation Camp you must report to.
Pro Tip: Always monitor your dashboard. Sometimes the NYSC releases the Green Card weeks before the Call-up Letter.
Timetable and Deadlines (No Guarantees)
If you are looking for a fixed date like “January 15th,” you might be disappointed. The NYSC Timetable is famous for changing at the last minute due to “logistical reasons” or public holidays.
- Registration Window: The portal usually stays open for 3 to 4 weeks.
- Closing Date: When the NYSC says the portal closes at midnight on a specific date, they mean it. Once it closes, you are automatically pushed to the next Batch (e.g., from Batch A to Batch B).
Avoid the “Last Minute” Rush: The portal servers often crash on the last day due to high traffic. Register as soon as the Senate List is uploaded.
Troubleshooting: The Biometric Nightmare
The most common technical issue PCMs face involves Biometric Capture.
The NYSC uses a specific piece of software to capture your thumbprints. This is security data.
- The Risk: If your fingerprints are not captured correctly at the Cyber Cafe, you will face humiliation at the Orientation Camp.
- The Consequence: At the camp gate, officers will ask you to place your thumb on a scanner. If it says “Not Verified,” you will be sent back home immediately.
How to avoid this: Do not let a lazy cafe operator bypass the capture or do a “rush job.” Ensure your fingers are dry and clean. Do not try to use “fingerprint apps” on your phone to bypass this step. Go to a reputable center with a proper flatbed scanner.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. All content is based on public official information from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). We are not affiliated with the Federal Government of Nigeria. For specific cases, consult the official portal (portal.nysc.org.ng) or visit an NYSC State Secretariat.