JAMB Releases New Registration Guidelines for 2026 UTME

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially unveiled the registration guidelines for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), advising candidates to strictly follow the procedures to avoid errors and disqualification.

According to JAMB, the new guidelines are designed to make the registration process more secure, transparent, and error-free for all candidates seeking admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions.

Profile Code Generation Now Mandatory

All candidates are required to generate a profile code before proceeding with registration. This is done by sending:

NIN (space) your 11-digit NIN number
to 55019 or 66019 via SMS using a personal phone number.

JAMB warned that this code is unique and permanent, meaning it cannot be changed after generation. The biodata used for registration will be automatically pulled from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) database.

Accurate Personal Information Is Critical

The board emphasized that candidates must cross-check their personal details at NIMC before starting registration. Key information that must be correct includes:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Gender
• State and local government of origin
• Email address

Any mismatch in this information could lead to serious problems during admission processing.

Approved Registration Centres Only

Candidates are strongly advised to complete their registration only at JAMB offices or accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres. JAMB warned against using cybercafés or unapproved agents, as this could lead to invalid registrations or fraud.

Purchase of E-PIN

The registration E-PIN (which is used to pay for the UTME form) must be purchased only through:

• Recognised banks
• Approved online platforms
• Accredited CBT centres

Candidates were warned to avoid black-market vendors, as fake or invalid E-PINs may cause loss of money and cancellation of registration.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

JAMB listed common errors candidates should avoid:

• Using incorrect SMS format when sending NIN
• Registering with an already-used phone number
• Providing false or misspelled personal information
• Attempting to register without proper biometric capture

In cases where biometric verification fails, candidates are advised to visit the nearest JAMB office for assistance rather than forcing the process.

Registration Timeline

JAMB announced that the sale of the 2026 UTME forms is scheduled to begin on January 31, 2026, and will end on March 8, 2026.

Candidates are encouraged to register early to avoid last-minute congestion and technical issues.

Final Advisory From JAMB

JAMB advised all candidates to:

• Use personal and functional phone numbers and emails
• Verify their NIMC details before starting
• Register only at accredited centres
• Review all information carefully before final submission

The board reiterated that strict compliance with the guidelines is necessary to ensure a smooth examination and admission process.

FAQ Section (For Your Post)

Q1: When will JAMB 2026 UTME registration start?
Registration will begin on January 31, 2026 and end on March 8, 2026.

Q2: How do I generate my JAMB profile code?
Send NIN (space) your 11-digit NIN to 55019 or 66019 using your personal phone number.

Q3: Can I change my JAMB profile code after generating it?
No. Once generated, the profile code is permanent and cannot be changed.

Q4: Where can I register for the 2026 UTME?
Only at JAMB offices or accredited CBT centres.

Q5: Where can I buy the JAMB E-PIN?
You can buy it from banks, approved online platforms, and accredited CBT centres.

Q6: What if my biometric capture fails during registration?
You should report the issue to a JAMB office, not force registration at a CBT centre.

Q7: Can I use a cyber café for JAMB registration?
No. Only JAMB-approved CBT centres and offices are allowed.