JAMB 2027 UTME: SIM Swap & Email Change Policy 2026
JAMB has eased restrictions on SIM swap and email changes for 2027 UTME candidates. Learn how to update your lost phone number and email address at designated CBT centres, the documents you’ll need, and why this matters for your admission journey.
If you’ve lost access to your registered JAMB phone number or email address, there’s good news. The JAMB SIM swap email change policy for 2027 UTME now makes it easier to update your credentials. Starting from 21 September 2026, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) introduced a groundbreaking policy review that allows candidates to change their registered phone numbers and email addresses through a controlled, secure process. This change affects millions of Nigerian students preparing for the 2027 UTME exam, and understanding how it works could save you from missing crucial exam updates.
What Changed: JAMB’s New SIM Swap and Email Change Policy
For years, JAMB strictly prohibited any changes to registered phone numbers and email addresses—a security measure designed to protect candidate records from fraud. However, this rigid policy created real hardship for students who lost their phones, changed network providers, or couldn’t recover old email accounts.
The new policy flips the script. As stated in the official announcement by JAMB’s Acting Director of Public Affairs, Dr Fabian Benjamin, candidates can now update their credentials legitimately. The Board introduced this change following deployment of enhanced biometric and identity verification processes, making the system more secure even with the flexibility.
Key Features of the 2026 Policy
- One-time service per candidate: You can use this service only once during your JAMB registration journey
- Strict authentication required: JAMB uses enhanced verification to prevent impersonation and fraud
- Multiple access points: Available at JAMB Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres, Professional Test Centres (PTC), Professional Registration Centres (PRC), and State Offices
- Biometric verification: Identity confirmation is mandatory before any changes are processed
Where to Update Your Phone Number and Email Address
The service is available at designated locations across Nigeria. You can visit:
- JAMB Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres nationwide
- Professional Test Centres (PTC) in major cities
- Professional Registration Centres (PRC)
- State JAMB Offices where applicable
Furthermore, you’ll need to provide your new phone number and email during the process. The Board will verify your identity using the biometric data already on file, ensuring only legitimate candidates can make changes.
Why This Matters for UI Post-UTME and Other Exams
This policy update is particularly crucial if you’re preparing for University of Ibadan (UI) Post-UTME 2026 or other institution-specific entrance exams. UI post-UTME requirements and cut-off marks These universities rely on your JAMB contact information to send exam details, results, and admission decisions. A lost or outdated phone number could mean missing critical notifications.
In addition, this change supports JAMB’s broader initiative to make tertiary education admission processes more seamless. The Board acknowledged that losing access to credentials causes genuine hardship and wanted to address this problem without compromising security.
Important Things to Remember Before You Apply
- Bring valid identification: You’ll need your original JAMB registration number and a valid means of identification
- Visit in person: This service cannot be done online; you must go to an accredited JAMB centre
- Plan ahead: Don’t wait until registration deadline—visit early to avoid delays
- One chance only: Use this service wisely since you can only update once
- Verify new details: Double-check your new phone number and email before submission to avoid future issues
Connection to 2027 UTME Registration Updates
This policy is part of JAMB’s larger 2027 UTME overhaul. The Board has also introduced JAMB 2027 UTME pre-registration app and exam time changes a new pre-registration mobile app and adjusted exam start times to improve the candidate experience. These changes signal JAMB’s commitment to modernising Nigeria’s tertiary admission system while maintaining security standards.
Frequently Asked Questions About JAMB SIM Swap and Email Changes
Can I change my JAMB phone number and email address online?
No. The JAMB SIM swap and email change service is only available in-person at JAMB CBT centres, Professional Test Centres (PTC), Professional Registration Centres (PRC), and State Offices. You must visit one of these locations with valid identification and your JAMB registration number. The in-person requirement ensures proper biometric verification and prevents fraud.
How many times can I use the SIM swap and email change service?
Only once per candidate. JAMB allows this service to be used just one time throughout your registration journey. Therefore, ensure your new phone number and email address are correct before submitting. Once changed, you cannot make another update through this policy, though you may contact JAMB directly for exceptional circumstances.
What documents do I need to change my registered phone number or email?
You’ll need your original JAMB registration number and a valid form of identification (national ID, driver’s licence, international passport, or student ID). Have your new phone number and email address ready. Some centres may request additional proof of identity depending on local procedures, so contact your nearest JAMB office beforehand to confirm specific requirements.
Final Thoughts: Take Action Now
If you’ve lost access to your registered JAMB credentials, don’t panic—help is available. Visit your nearest JAMB centre before the 2027 UTME registration period closes to update your information. This simple step could prevent missing important exam communications and ensure smooth admission processing.
What to do next: Check the official JAMB portal for a complete list of CBT centres near you. If you found this guide helpful, share it with classmates who may have lost access to their credentials. Don’t let outdated contact information jeopardise your university admission journey!
