JAMB Issues Guide for 2026 UTME Registration-Preparing for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time candidates who are unsure of what each step requires. To make the process easier, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released a fresh, straightforward guide that explains how prospective students can successfully navigate the 2026 UTME registration.
The new breakdown, shared through the Board’s official X (Twitter) account, outlines everything from generating a profile code to correcting personal details and purchasing the official e-PIN. Beyond that, JAMB has also included common mistakes applicants frequently make and how to resolve them long before the exam period arrives.
This guide comes at an important time when thousands of students are preparing for admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics and colleges of education. With the registration window approaching, having a clear roadmap helps candidates avoid unnecessary delays, incorrect submissions or invalid registrations.
The steps released by JAMB are not merely instructions; they are safeguards designed to ensure that every candidate submits accurate information and has a smooth registration experience from start to finish.
Understanding the First Step: Profile Code Generation
Every UTME registration begins with one essential requirement: the generation of a profile code. Without this number, a candidate cannot purchase an e-PIN or begin the formal registration process at any accredited centre. JAMB emphasises that this profile code connects directly to each candidate’s National Identification Number (NIN).
Because of this, the personal information tied to the NIN must be accurate and consistent. This includes a candidate’s full name, date of birth, phone number, email address and any academic records that may be attached in the future.
To create the profile code, candidates must open their phone’s messaging application and send their 11-digit NIN to any of the official JAMB short codes, 55019 or 66019. The message must follow this exact format:
NIN (space) NINNumber
For example:
NIN 12345678901
The space between “NIN” and the number is extremely important. A message sent without the space will fail automatically. Once this message has been delivered successfully, the profile code is returned almost immediately. This code is permanent and cannot be altered later. Since it is linked directly to NIMC’s biodata records, whatever information appears in the NIMC system becomes the official data JAMB will use.
JAMB also reminds candidates that if their NIN details are incorrect, maybe their name is misspelt or their date of birth is wrong, they must visit a NIMC office to make corrections. These changes must be completed before starting the UTME registration because JAMB does not allow candidates to modify their NIN-based biodata at the CBT centre.
Buying the e-PIN and Completing the Full Registration
After securing the profile code, the next stage is purchasing the official JAMB e-PIN. This pin serves as a digital ticket that grants candidates access to the registration portal. JAMB warns candidates to avoid buying e-PINs from unapproved vendors, roadside operators or suspicious online agents. To stay safe, applicants should purchase the e-PIN only through:
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Accredited banks
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Official JAMB offices
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Approved Mobile Money agents
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Recognised online platforms
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Certified CBT registration centres
Once the e-PIN has been obtained, candidates must visit any accredited CBT centre to complete the main registration. During this stage, accuracy is extremely important. Every detail entered must match the records pulled from the NIN database. Candidates also need to select their preferred course, institution, exam town and subject combinations with care.
JAMB strongly advises candidates to request the registration template from the centre before filling in their details. This template allows them to review and correct any mistakes before the information is input into the system. Once registration is submitted, certain details cannot be changed.
Biometrics are also part of the registration process. Candidates must ensure that their fingerprints, passport photograph and biodata appear clearly on the dual-screen display during registration. If fingerprint capturing fails, the candidate should immediately go to the nearest JAMB office. CBT centres are not allowed to force biometric processing or ask candidates to continue without proper verification.
Helpful Tips to Prevent Registration Errors
JAMB’s new update not only showed the correct steps; it also pointed out the most important things candidates must avoid. Here are some of the guidelines included in the advisory:
Make corrections to NIMC records early
Any errors in the NIN database must be fixed before starting UTME registration. JAMB’s system relies entirely on NIMC, so wrong information from NIMC automatically results in wrong details on the JAMB portal.
Use an active phone number and email
Each candidate must use a unique phone number for all UTME communication. The same number must remain active throughout the admission process because JAMB will send updates, exam notifications and admission messages through it.
Do not rely on third-party registration
Students are encouraged to complete registration in person. Allowing someone else to register on your behalf often leads to errors or incorrect entries.
Check all details before final submission
A small mistake, like the wrong subject combination, can cost admission. Candidates must take their time during registration.
Common Registration Challenges and How To Fix Them
Despite the clear instructions, some candidates still experience technical issues during registration. JAMB has outlined a list of the most common errors and their solutions:
1. Error: “55019/66019 – Wrong Parameter”
This appears when the profile code request was sent incorrectly.
Solution: Resend the message using the correct format:
NIN (space) NINNumber
2. Error: “Number Already Registered”
This happens when a phone number has been used previously for UTME registration.
Solution: Retrieve the original SIM card used earlier. The profile code cannot be generated with a different phone number.
3. Error: “Unable to Verify NIN”
This usually results from temporary network delays between JAMB and NIMC.
Solution: Wait a while and try again. The issue generally resolves itself when network traffic reduces.
4. Error: “Record Not Found”
This means the NIN is not properly stored in NIMC’s system or has not synchronised.
Solution: Visit any NIMC office to validate the NIN or request proper activation.
Why JAMB’s Updated Guide Matters for 2026 Candidates
As each year passes, JAMB continuously improves its registration system to keep it secure, transparent and easier for candidates to use. The biggest advantage of this new guide is that it reduces the chances of invalid registrations and helps candidates avoid the long queues associated with corrections.
The Board’s emphasis on accurate biodata, early NIN corrections, and proper verification at CBT centres shows its commitment to ensuring a smooth and error-free experience for students nationwide.
For many young Nigerians seeking tertiary education, the UTME is the first step toward achieving academic and career goals. A single mistake, such as mismatched NIN details or an incorrect subject combination, can delay a candidate’s journey by an entire year. This is why JAMB’s latest update is timely, detailed and incredibly important for anyone planning to sit for the 2026 exam.
By following the new instructions carefully, candidates can avoid unnecessary issues and focus fully on exam preparation instead of dealing with last-minute registration problems.