This guide offers a simple, step-by-step procedure for prospective candidates registering for the JAMB 2026 UTME, emphasizing early preparation to avoid common mistakes. The process begins with mandatory pre-registration verification, where candidates must ensure their personal data across all records, especially their NIN details with NIMC, is perfectly accurate, as this information becomes locked upon profile code generation. The subsequent steps involve sending an SMS with the NIN to generate the unique profile code, which is then used to purchase the e-PIN and complete the final registration, including biometric capture and form submission, exclusively at an accredited CBT centre.
Simple Step By Step Guide To Register For 2026 UTME You Need to Know
Preparing for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) can feel like navigating a maze. However, getting the 2026 registration process right from the start is the key to a stress-free experience.
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JAMB has made it clear: the National Identity Number (NIN) is the foundation of your registration. Everything else depends on it being correct.
This guide breaks down the entire process, from confirming your details to submitting your form at the CBT centre in simple steps.
Phase 1: Pre-Registration Requirements (Check Your Details)
Before you even think about sending an SMS to JAMB, you must ensure your identity details are perfect. JAMB uses the information stored with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) for your registration.
1. Check Your NIN Accuracy:
- Make sure the name (including the order of names), date of birth, and gender on your NIN record exactly match what you intend to use for your UTME registration and what is on your O-Level/A-Level certificates.
- Why this matters: Once your JAMB profile code is created, this information is locked. Any mismatch will lead to problems and may prevent you from sitting for the exam.
2. Prepare Your Contact Details:
- You need a unique, working mobile number and email address. You cannot use a number or email that has been previously used by another candidate.
- The phone number is critical for generating your profile code and receiving future updates.
Phase 2: Generating Your Profile Code
The profile code is the official first step and your ticket to buying the e-PIN.
Step-by-Step Guide for generating a profile code for 2026 utme through text message (SMS):
- Open Your Message App: Use the phone number linked to your NIN.
- Send the SMS: Type your 11-digit NIN in this exact format:
NIN 00000011111(replace the numbers with your actual NIN). - Send to 55019 or 66019: Send the message to either of these shortcodes.
- Receive Your Code: JAMB will automatically retrieve your biodata from NIMC. You will receive an SMS containing your unique 10-digit Profile Code.
- Save the Code: This code is essential for all remaining steps, including purchasing your e-PIN and completing registration at the CBT centre.
Troubleshooting Tip: If you receive a “Record Not Found” error, it means your NIN details are not properly synced with NIMC. You must visit a NIMC office to confirm or update your record before trying again.
Phase 3: The Mandatory Checklist (What to Bring)
Before you leave home for the CBT centre, ensure you have these items ready. This will save you time and prevent unnecessary trips.
| Item | Purpose | Estimated Cost (Gap Filled) |
|---|---|---|
| Profile Code | Required to purchase the e-PIN and start registration. | N/A |
| e-PIN (Pay with Debit Card) | The actual fee for the registration form and reading material. | N7,700 to N9,000 (Estimate for UTME & Mock/Reading Text) |
| Valid Email Address | Used for confirmation and future communication from JAMB. | generate for free |
| Jamb-Approved Book | Required for all candidates; cost is included in the e-PIN. | N/A |
| Two Passport Photographs | Although digital capture is used, a few recent physical copies are wise. | N/A |
Phase 4: Final Registration at the CBT Centre
Registration must be completed in person at an official JAMB or accredited CBT centre. Do not attempt to register through unapproved sources.
Step 1: Visit an Approved Centre Go to a JAMB office or an accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centre near you. Registration agents there are trained to handle the final steps.
Step 2: Purchase Your e-PIN At the centre, use your Profile Code to purchase the e-PIN from an approved vendor (usually a bank or authorised seller within the centre). The e-PIN confirms your payment and allows the registration to proceed.
Step 3: Complete the Registration Form The CBT centre official will use your e-PIN and Profile Code to open your form.
- Confirm all details: Cross-check the name and NIN details pulled from NIMC.
- Select Course and Institution: Carefully select your preferred institutions (Universities, Polytechnics, Colleges of Education) and your chosen course of study.
- Select Subject Combination (Gap Filled): Ensure your UTME subject combination perfectly matches the requirements for the course you are applying for. Mismatched subjects are the number one reason for failed admissions.
- Select Exam Town: Choose your preferred examination towns/cities for the main UTME and the optional Mock Exam.
Step 4: Biometric Capture and Photo Your fingerprints and live facial photo will be captured using a dual-screen system. This system allows you to confirm that the photo being taken is clear and that your fingerprints are accurately recorded. Always confirm your details on the dual screen before the official submits the form.
Key Takeaways and Timeline
- Priority is NIMC: Any error (name, gender, DOB) must be corrected at a NIMC office before you generate your profile code.
- Biometric Issues: If the CBT centre cannot successfully capture your biometrics, you must go directly to a JAMB office for a final solution. No CBT centre can force biometric capturing.
The UTME form for 2026 is expected to be available for sale between January and March 2026.
Starting your preparation and profile generation now ensures you avoid the rush and the server slow-down that typically happens closer to the deadline. Follow these simple steps carefully, and you will have a smooth and successful registration process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the National Identity Number (NIN) compulsory for the 2026 UTME registration? Yes, the NIN is absolutely mandatory. JAMB uses the NIN to generate your unique profile code and link your biodata from the NIMC database to your UTME registration.
2. What should I do if my name is wrong on my NIN record? You must visit a National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) enrolment center to perform a data correction before you attempt to generate the JAMB profile code. Once the profile code is generated, your name is fixed and cannot be changed for that examination year.
3. I have an old phone number. Can I use a new one for my NIN SMS? You must use the mobile number that is currently linked and active with your NIN record. If you have changed your number, you may need to update it with NIMC first, although in some cases, any working number can be used if it is the first time you are registering a profile with that NIN. Always confirm the official process from the JAMB bulletin.
4. Can I register for the UTME online from home? No. While the initial steps (NIN verification and profile code generation) are done via SMS, the complete registration, including biometric capture and form submission, must be done physically at an accredited CBT centre.
5. How much is the total registration fee for the 2026 UTME? The estimated cost for the registration e-PIN, which includes the registration fee, the compulsory reading text, and the mock exam (if opted for), is typically in the range of N7,700 to N9,000. Always check the official JAMB bulletin for the exact, final figure when registration begins.
6. What happens if I send the NIN SMS and receive a “Record Not Found” error? This indicates that the NIN submitted either does not exist or is not correctly linked to your phone number, or there might be an issue with your data in the NIMC database. You must visit a NIMC office to verify and fix your data.
7. Can I select four institutions (Universities, Polytechnics, etc.) in my UTME form? Yes, you are typically allowed to select a specific number of institutions across different categories (e.g., one University, one Polytechnic, one College of Education, etc.). Carefully review the current JAMB brochure for the precise combination rules.
8. If I missed the Mock Exam registration deadline, can I still sit for the main UTME? Yes, the Mock Exam is optional and is designed to help candidates prepare and test the CBT system. Missing the Mock Exam registration or the exam itself does not affect your eligibility to sit for the main UTME.
9. How do I change my course or institution after final submission? You can usually apply for a “Change of Course/Institution” after the registration window has closed, using a specific portal service provided by JAMB. However, this attracts an additional fee and is subject to the availability of the service.
10. How long does it take to get the profile code after sending the SMS? If your NIN details are correct and there are no network issues, the profile code is usually delivered within minutes (typically 5 to 10 minutes). If you wait longer than 30 minutes, assume there is an issue and try again or check your NIN status.
