The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released the full guidelines for the 2026 UTME registration, and if you plan to sit for the exam, this explainer breaks down everything in simple terms so you don’t make costly mistakes.
JAMB shared the new guidelines through its official X (Twitter) account to help candidates avoid the common issues that usually delay or ruin registrations.
1. Before You Generate Your Profile Code — Check Your Details
JAMB wants candidates to double-check their NIN details before doing anything.
This means making sure the following on your NIN are correct:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Gender
- State and Local Government of origin
- Email address
- A-Level results (if applicable)
💡 Why this is important:
Once you generate a profile code, you cannot change your biodata on JAMB’s side. All your information comes directly from NIMC. Any mistake on your NIN will follow you throughout the admission process.
If your details are wrong, go to NIMC first, get it corrected, and wait for the changes to reflect before trying to register.
2. How to Generate Your Profile Code (and Avoid Errors)
Send your 11-digit NIN to either:
- 55019, or
- 66019
For example:
NIN 12345678901 → send to 55019 or 66019.
Common issues you might encounter:
✓ Error 55019/66019
This happens when the message is not in the correct format.
✔ Solution: Type it correctly as: NIN (space) Your 11-digit NIN.
✓ “Number Already Registered”
Your SIM has been used before.
✔ Solution:
- Use the SIM you previously used for JAMB, OR
- Get a new, unused number.
✓ “Unable to Verify NIN”
This usually means NIMC is slow.
✔ Solution: Wait and try again later.
3. Where to Register
After getting your profile code, go to:
- The nearest JAMB office, or
- Any approved CBT centre
Do not register with unapproved cybercafés to avoid biometric or data issues.
4. Getting Your E-PIN
E-PINs can only be bought through:
- Banks
- Online payment platforms
- Approved merchants at CBT centres
Avoid buying from random people to prevent being scammed.
5. During Registration — Pay Attention!
Before submitting your final form:
- Ask for the registration template
- Confirm all your details
- Ensure your passport photo and fingerprints are properly captured
- Make sure a dual screen is used, so you can see what the operator is typing
JAMB warns that no CBT center should force your biometrics.
If you have fingerprint issues, go straight to the nearest JAMB office.
6. Important Dates for 2026 UTME
Registration Starts:
📅 Friday, January 31, 2026
Registration Ends:
📅 Saturday, March 8, 2026
Make sure you register early to avoid the usual last-minute rush.
In Summary — What You Must Do
- Fix your NIN issues before generating a profile code
- Use the correct SMS format
- Ensure your phone number and email are active and belong to you
- Register only at approved centres
- Double-check everything before submitting
Following these guidelines will help you avoid delays, mistakes, and unnecessary stress during the 2026 UTME registration.
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