The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued comprehensive instructions for candidates preparing to register for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The board published the update on its official X handle on Sunday, outlining each step of the registration process and highlighting common mistakes that often derail candidates.
Okay News reports that the new advisory is meant to help prospective applicants avoid delays, errors and avoidable complications.
According to JAMB, candidates must confirm that their National Identification Number (NIN), email address, phone number and academic records are accurate before initiating the process.
The board reminded candidates that once a profile code is generated, it cannot be reversed or modified, because all biodata is pulled directly from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
“Candidates should ensure their personal details, including National Identification Number (NIN), email, and A-Level results, are accurate before generating a profile code,” JAMB wrote.
To begin, applicants should send their 11-digit NIN to 55019 or 66019 using the format: NIN 00000011111. Once the system returns a valid profile code, candidates must proceed to the nearest JAMB office or any approved CBT centre to continue registration.
JAMB also warned candidates to purchase E-PINs only from authorised channels, including banks, accredited online platforms or verified vendors stationed at registration centres.
The board said providing the correct registration template is essential, and all information must be reviewed carefully before final submission.
The board stressed that accurate data is the backbone of a successful registration. Mismatched information, according to JAMB, can cause serious problems later in the admission cycle.
Candidates who need corrections to their name, date of birth, gender or state of origin must update these details directly with NIMC and wait until the changes appear on their portal before attempting registration.
JAMB also reminded applicants that GSM numbers and email addresses serve as unique identifiers and must not be shared or changed midway through the process. Both must be accessible and functional throughout registration.
Candidates experiencing fingerprint or facial recognition issues should visit the nearest JAMB office for support.
The board emphasised that no CBT centre is permitted to force completion of a registration when biometric capture fails. JAMB also insisted that centres use a dual-screen setup to allow candidates to confirm their passport photograph and biometrics before finalising the process.
The board listed several recurring errors linked to profile code generation. These include:
“Error 550/66019: Indicates an incorrectly formatted request; candidates should use the correct command (e.g., NIN 00000011111 to 55019/66019).”
“Number Already Registered: Suggests the phone number is linked to another profile; candidates should retrieve the SIM card or use a new number.”
“Unable to Verify NIN: Candidates are advised to wait and retry later.”
With the 2026 UTME cycle approaching, JAMB says early preparation and strict adherence to the guidelines will help candidates avoid unnecessary setbacks as they compete for admission into tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
