JAMB 2026 Update on Basic Procedures for UTME/DE Registration & Important Dates

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued an official notice outlining the procedures and important tips for candidates preparing for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME)

This was made available in a recent announcement made by the Board via their X handle. Below are the steps for new candidates willing to register for JAMB 2026

Steps to JAMB 2026 Registration 

Step 1: Profile Code Generation

• Candidates must first ensure that their personal details including their National Identification Number (NIN), email address, and O’Level/A-Level results are accurate and consistent across all platforms.

• How to Generate the profile code: Send your 11-digit NIN to 55019 or 66019 in the format:

• NIN 00000011111 (ensure there is a space between “NIN” and the number).

Important Note: Once a profile code is generated, it cannot be changed, and your biodata will be automatically retrieved from the NIMC database.

You do not need to generate profile code if you have one before from previous UTME 

Step 2: E-PIN Purchase and Registration

• After generating a profile code, candidates should proceed to the nearest JAMB Office or any approved CBT Centre to commence registration.

• E-PINs Purchase: E-PINs must be purchased only from authorised channels, including banks, approved online platforms, and accredited vendors at registration centres.

• Registration: Candidates must ensure they are given the correct registration template and should meticulously cross-check all details for accuracy before final submission.

Important Tips For UTME 2026

NIMC Corrections: Any necessary corrections (e.g., Name, Date of Birth, Gender, State of Origin) must be made with NIMC early and reflected on their portal before starting JAMB registration.

Unique Identifiers: Phone numbers and email addresses are unique to each candidate. They cannot be shared or changed and must remain functional throughout the process.

Biometric Issues: If biometric capture fails, candidates should visit a JAMB office immediately. Do not allow any CBT centre to force-register you.

Dual Screens: Ensure a dual screen is used during registration so you can confirm your passport photograph and biometrics are captured correctly in real-time.

Common Challenges and Solutions

“Error 550/66019” / Wrong Parameter:

Indicates an incorrect format. Ensure you use the correct command: NIN [space] YourNIN to 55019 or 66019.

“Number Already Registered”:

Means the phone number has already been used to generate a profile code. Candidates must retrieve and use that specific SIM card to receive the code.

“Unable to Verify NIN”:

Usually a temporary network or server issue. Candidates are advised to wait and retry later.

“Record Not Found”:

Implies the NIN is not in the NIMC database. Candidates should visit the nearest NIMC office for validation.

With this announcement, the JAMB 2026 UTME registration is set to commence soon. Prospective UTME Candidates are therefore advised to start preparing using the JAMB CBT software and JAMB CBT app

Important Dates for JAMB 2026

UTME Registration: January 31 – March 5, 2026

Direct Entry (DE) Registration: March 10 – April 7, 2026

Mock Exam Slip Reprint: April 5, 2026

Mock Examination: April 10, 2026

Main Exam Slip Reprint: April 18, 2026

UTME Main Examination: April 25 – May 5, 2026

Release of Results: May 7, 2026

Compulsory Novel for UTME 2026 

The Lekki Headmaster by Kabir Alabi Garba.

To get JAMB CBT practice app, visit https://campusessentials.com.ng or send us a WhatsApp message below:

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