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JAMB Registration Begins Jan 31, 2026 — Guidelines Released

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has informed that the application form for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) will be available for purchase starting Friday, January 31st, 2026, until Saturday, March 8th, 2026.

In this regard, the Board has also published comprehensive guidelines regarding the registration process for the 2026 UTME, as well as a compilation of common challenges candidates might face.

This announcement, shared through the official JAMB X account on Sunday, is intended to aid prospective candidates in their preparations for the upcoming registration.

Registration Process

“Candidates must verify their personal information, including National Identification Number (NIN), email address, and A-Level results, for accuracy before creating a profile code.”

They should send their 11-digit NIN to 55019 or 66019 (e.g., NIN 00000011111 to 55019/66019).

Once a profile code is created, it cannot be altered, and biodata is automatically fetched from NIMC.

Candidates then need to go to the nearest JAMB office or any accredited CBT Centre to start the registration process.

E-PINs should only be acquired through authorized channels, such as banks, online services, or vendors at registration centers.

It is crucial to ensure the correct registration template is used and that all information is accurate before submitting it at the center.

JAMB has stressed the necessity of correct data, warning that discrepancies could lead to issues.

Key Recommendations

Candidates should make any necessary amendments with NIMC early and verify that the changes are reflected on their portal prior to registration (e.g., Name, Date of Birth, Gender, State of Origin).

GSM numbers and email addresses are unique identifiers; they cannot be modified or shared and must be active before registration.

Candidates facing biometric problems during registration should visit the nearest JAMB office. No CBT center should force a candidate to register.

Ensure that a dual screen is utilized during registration and confirm that your passport photo and biometrics are captured accurately.

Common Issues

The board also pointed out frequent problems encountered during profile code generation: “Error 550/66019: Indicates a request that is incorrectly formatted; candidates should follow the correct command (e.g., NIN 00000011111 to 55019/66019).

“Number Already Registered: This indicates that the phone number is associated with another profile; candidates should retrieve the SIM card or opt for a new number.

“Unable to Verify NIN: Candidates are advised to wait a while and attempt again later.”