The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released a comprehensive set of guidelines for candidates preparing to register for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

The update, shared on the board’s official X (Twitter) page on Sunday, outlines each step of the registration process and highlights common mistakes that often frustrate applicants. The advisory aims to help students avoid errors, delays and unnecessary complications.

JAMB stressed that candidates must ensure the accuracy of their National Identification Number (NIN), email address, phone number and academic records before starting registration. Once a profile code is generated, it cannot be reversed or altered, since all personal data comes directly from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).

“Candidates should make sure their personal details, National Identification Number (NIN), email, and A-Level results inclusive, are accurate before generating a profile code,” JAMB stated.

How to Generate Profile Code

To begin registration, candidates must send their 11-digit NIN to 55019 or 66019 using this format:

NIN 00000011111

Once a valid profile code is returned, applicants should proceed to the nearest JAMB office or any accredited CBT centre to complete their registration.

Important Registration Rules and Warnings

JAMB reminded candidates to buy their E-PINs only from authorised vendors, including banks, approved online platforms and accredited agents located at registration centres.

Other key instructions include:

1. Review Registration Template Carefully

All biodata and exam details must be checked thoroughly before final submission.

2. Correct Data Only Through NIMC

Mistakes involving name, date of birth, gender or state of origin must be corrected with NIMC first. Candidates should wait until the updated information reflects on their portal before attempting UTME registration.

3. Use One Phone Number and Email Address

Candidates must use accessible and active contact details throughout the registration process. JAMB warned against changing phone numbers or emails midway, as both serve as unique identifiers.

4. Biometric Issues Must Be Handled by JAMB Offices

Candidates experiencing fingerprint or facial recognition problems should visit the nearest JAMB office. No CBT centre is allowed to force registration when biometric capture fails.

Centres must also provide a dual-screen setup so candidates can verify their passport photo and biometric details before finalising their registration.

Common Errors During Profile Code Generation

JAMB listed several recurring issues candidates face:

• “Error 550/66019” – Caused by an incorrect text format; candidates must use the correct command.
  
• “Number Already Registered” – Indicates the phone number has previously been used; candidates should recover the SIM or use a fresh number.
  
• “Unable to Verify NIN” – Usually a temporary issue; candidates should wait and try again.
  

Final Advice

With the 2026 UTME fast approaching, JAMB advised prospective candidates to prepare early and follow every guideline closely. Accurate data, careful registration and strict adherence to official instructions will help applicants avoid avoidable setbacks during the admission process.