AbdulThe Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially released the registration guidelines for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). This announcement marks the beginning of preparations for thousands of candidates seeking admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education across Nigeria.
Understanding these guidelines is critical to avoid errors, save costs, and secure successful registration. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to JAMB 2026 registration, including eligibility requirements, necessary documents, step-by-step registration procedures, and useful tips to ensure a smooth process.
Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Profile Code Generation
Candidates must begin by confirming that their personal details are correct. This includes their National Identification Number, email address and O’Level or A’Level records. These details must match across all platforms.
To generate the profile code, send the 11-digit NIN to 55019 or 66019 in this format:
NIN 00000011111
There must be a space between the word NIN and the number. Once the code is created, it stays fixed, and the biodata connected to the NIN will be drawn from the NIMC database.
Step Two: e-PIN Purchase and Full Registration
After the profile code is ready, candidates should visit the nearest JAMB office or an approved CBT centre to begin the main registration.
e-PINs can be bought from authorised banks, approved online platforms or accredited vendors at registration centres. During registration, candidates should ask for the correct template and cross-check every detail before final submission.
Important Tips for a Smooth Process
- Corrections on NIMC records, such as name or date of birth, must be made before starting the UTME process.
- Phone numbers and email addresses must be unique to each candidate and must stay active for all future updates.
- If biometrics fail to capture, candidates should go straight to a JAMB office. No CBT centre should force them to continue the process.
- A dual screen should be used so candidates can see their photograph and biometrics in real time.
Common Challenges and Simple Fixes
1. “Error 550/66019” or Wrong Parameter
This means the format used to send the NIN was wrong. Use:
NIN [space] YourNIN
2. “Number Already Registered”
The phone number has been used before. Candidates must retrieve the SIM that was used earlier to get the code.
3. “Unable to Verify NIN”
This is often a temporary network problem. Waiting and trying again can resolve it.
4. “Record Not Found”
This means the NIN is not yet on the NIMC database. Candidates must visit a NIMC office for validation.
1. Eligibility Criteria for 2026 UTME Registration
Before registering, candidates must confirm that they meet the eligibility requirements:
- Minimum Age: Candidates must be at least 16 years old.
- Educational Qualification: Must possess or expect to obtain Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSCE) or equivalents such as NECO or NABTEB.
- Citizenship: Primarily Nigerian citizens, but foreign students intending to study in Nigeria may also register.
- First-time and Returning Candidates: Both are allowed, provided they meet the criteria.
Pro Tip: Ensure all personal details match your official documents to prevent discrepancies during the admission process.
2. Required Documents for 2026 Registration
To register successfully, candidates need the following:
- Valid Identification:
- National Identity Number (NIN) – mandatory
- Passport Photograph:
- Recent, passport-sized, white background photograph
- Academic Records:
- SSCE/NECO/NABTEB results or awaiting results slip
- Payment Receipt or Proof:
- Evidence of payment of the JAMB registration fee
- Personal Information:
- Full name, date of birth, state of origin, contact information, and active email
3. Step-by-Step JAMB 2026 Registration Procedure
Step 1: Obtain Your NIN (National Identification Number)
All candidates must have a NIN issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
- Visit a NIMC center or use their online portal to obtain your NIN.
- Ensure details on the NIN are correct to prevent registration errors.
Step 2: Generate a JAMB Profile Code
Candidates must visit a registered JAMB CBT center to generate a profile code.
Procedure:
- Present your NIN and valid ID.
- The CBT center will issue a profile code, which links your NIN to your JAMB registration.
The profile code is mandatory for registration.
Step 3: Visit a JAMB-Approved CBT Center
Registration is completed physically at a CBT center.
Steps to Follow:
- Submit required documents and payment receipt.
- Upload passport photograph and signature digitally.
- Enter bio-data: full name, date of birth, gender, state of origin, and LGA.
- Select preferred institutions and courses.
Ensure your selected courses align with UTME subject requirements.
Step 4: Choose Appropriate UTME Subjects
Candidates must select four subjects based on their intended course:
- Science Courses: English + Mathematics + Physics + Chemistry/Biology
- Art Courses: English + Literature + History + Government/Commerce
- Social Science Courses: English + Mathematics + Economics + Geography
Selecting correct subjects is crucial for admission eligibility.
Step 5: Biometric Capture and Verification
At the CBT center, candidates will have:
- Fingerprints captured digitally
- Passport photograph verified
Confirm that all personal data is correct before final submission. A registration confirmation slip is issued after successful registration.
Step 6: Print the Registration Slip
The slip contains:
- JAMB registration number
- Selected institutions and courses
- Exam date
Keep multiple copies for reference during exams and admission.
4. Post-Registration Guidelines
- Confirm Registration: Check your email or SMS for JAMB confirmation.
- UTME Preparation: Download JAMB CBT practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format.
- Correction of Errors: Report mistakes to the CBT center before the registration deadline.
Avoid unofficial agents or intermediaries; only registered CBT centers are authorized to process registration.
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How to Check and Confirm Admission on JAMB CAPS 2025/2026
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I register from home?
- No. Registration must be completed at a JAMB-approved CBT center.
Q2: What if I make a mistake?
- Mistakes can be corrected at the CBT center before the deadline.
Q3: Can I change my course later?
- Changes are allowed only within a limited period post-registration.
Q4: Is NIN mandatory for 2026 UTME registration?
- Yes, all candidates must provide a valid NIN.
6. Tips for a Smooth Registration
- Register early to avoid long queues at CBT centers.
- Ensure all documents are valid and complete.
- Double-check the spelling of your name and other personal details.
- Keep all receipts and slips safe.
- Practice UTME subjects in advance to improve scores.
Conclusion
JAMB 2026 registration is an essential first step toward securing admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions. By following these guidelines, preparing the necessary documents, and registering at approved CBT centers, candidates can complete the process accurately and avoid delays.
Remember: Accuracy, timely registration, and compliance with JAMB instructions are critical to a successful UTME registration.
Abdul
