JAMB unveils simplified 2026 UTME registration process — here’s what every candidate must know

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released a new, easy-to-follow guide to support candidates preparing for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The update, published on the Board’s official X handle, breaks down the registration steps—from generating a profile code to purchasing an e-PIN and completing biometric registration at approved centres.

The announcement comes as thousands of candidates gear up for the nation’s biggest tertiary admission examination, with JAMB emphasising accuracy, early preparation and error-free registration.

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Step 1: Confirm Your Details and Generate Your Profile Code

JAMB warns that the accuracy of personal information is the foundation of a successful registration.

Candidates must ensure the following details are correct and consistent across all platforms:

• National Identification Number (NIN)
• Email address
• O’Level or A’Level records

To generate your profile code, send your 11-digit NIN to 55019 or 66019 in this format:

NIN 00000011111
(Note: There must be a space between “NIN” and the digits.)

Once generated, the profile code remains permanent. JAMB will automatically pull the candidate’s biodata from the NIMC database using the submitted NIN.

Step 2: Buy Your e-PIN and Complete Registration

After obtaining your profile code, candidates should proceed to the nearest JAMB office or approved CBT centre for the main registration.

Where to buy your e-PIN:

• Authorised banks
• Accredited online payment platforms
• Approved vendors at registration centres

During registration, candidates must request the official JAMB template, fill it out carefully, and cross-check every detail before final submission. JAMB stresses that errors made at this stage can affect examination participation and admission processing.

Important Tips to Avoid Registration Problems

JAMB highlighted key reminders to ensure a smooth 2026 UTME registration:

• Correct NIMC errors first: Issues such as name mismatch or incorrect date of birth must be resolved before registering.
• Use unique contact details: Phone numbers and email addresses must be exclusive to each candidate and remain active throughout the admission process.
• Biometric issues? Visit a JAMB office: Candidates should not allow any CBT centre to force biometric capture if the system fails.
• Insist on a dual screen: This allows candidates to monitor their photograph and biometrics in real time.

Common Registration Errors — and How to Fix Them

JAMB also outlined the challenges candidates frequently face and the simplest solutions:

1. “Error 550/66019” or Wrong Parameter

This indicates an incorrect message format.
Fix: Send the NIN in the correct format — NIN [space] YourNIN

2. “Number Already Registered”

This means the phone number has been used previously for JAMB registration.
Fix: Retrieve and use the original SIM card tied to the old record.

3. “Unable to Verify NIN”

Often caused by temporary network issues.
Fix: Wait a short while and try again later.

4. “Record Not Found”

This shows that the NIN does not yet exist in the NIMC database.
Fix: Visit a NIMC office for immediate validation.

Bottom Line

With the 2026 UTME approaching, JAMB’s updated guide offers candidates a clear roadmap to avoid mistakes, complete registration faster and ensure compliance with official requirements. Students are advised to begin early and follow each step carefully to avoid last-minute challenges.

You may also like to read: 2026 JAMB Syllabus Guide: Complete Subject Topics, Tips & Strategies for UTME Success