BREAKING: JAMB Releases 2026 UTME Registration Guidelines

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially released the full registration guidelines for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), announcing key procedures and precautions for prospective candidates. 

Key Steps for 2026 UTME Registration

1. Prepare valid NIN, email, etc: Candidates must have their correct National Identification Number (NIN), a functional email address, and — where applicable — A-Level results. These must be accurate before generating a profile code.  
2. Generate Profile Code: To obtain a profile code, send the 11-digit NIN via SMS to 55019 or 66019 (for example: NIN 00000011111 to 55019/66019). Once generated, this code cannot be changed. The biodata will be retrieved automatically from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) database.  
3. Proceed to Accredited Centres: After obtaining your profile code, go to the nearest JAMB office or any accredited computer-based test (CBT) centre to begin registration.  
4. Purchase E-PINs Legitimately: E-PINs should only be bought from authorised sources — banks, official online platforms, or accredited vendors at registration centres.  
5. Verify Registration Template & Details: Candidates must ensure they get the correct registration template and that all information is accurate prior to final submission at the centre.  

Important Reminders & Common Challenges

1. Update NIMC Data Early: If your NIMC record has errors (name, date of birth, gender, state of origin), correct them well before registration and confirm the updates reflect on your portal.  
2. Unique, Functional Contact Info Required: The phone number and email used must be unique, functional, and not shared — they serve as permanent identifiers.  
3. Report Biometric Issues Promptly: If there are problems capturing your biometrics or passport photo, go directly to the nearest JAMB office. No CBT centre should carry on registration if biometrics fail.  
4. Use Dual-Screen Verification: During registration, ensure a dual-screen setup where you can verify all details (email, exam town, subject combination) before final submission.  

Common errors to avoid in 2026 UTME Registration:

Error message	What it means	What you should do
Error 550/66019	Incorrect SMS format	Use correct format: NIN 00000011111 then send to 55019 or 66019
Number Already Registered	Phone number already linked to another profile	Retrieve old SIM or use a different number
Unable to Verify NIN	NIN verification failed	Wait a bit then retry — or check with NIMC if issue persists

Important Key Dates for JAMB 2026 Registration

• Sales of 2026 UTME form: From Friday, 31 January 2026 to Saturday, 8 March 2026. 

What This Means for Prospective Candidates

With the 2026 UTME registration window approaching, now is the time to ensure all personal data (NIN, NIMC records, email, phone number) is correct and up to date. Early and accurate preparation reduces the risk of registration issues and helps you avoid unnecessary setbacks.