How to Get JAMB Profile Code for 2026 UTME Registration (Step-by-Step Guide)
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially announced that candidates preparing for the 2026 UTME can now begin generating their JAMB Profile Code.
This guide explains how to get your JAMB Profile Code for 2026, the requirements you must meet, common problems candidates face, and how to solve them quickly.
Every UTME and Direct Entry candidate must generate a JAMB Profile Code before registration can begin.
What Is a JAMB Profile Code?
A JAMB Profile Code is a unique 10-character code assigned to each candidate. It is required to:
- Purchase your UTME or Direct Entry e-PIN
- Complete JAMB registration at an accredited CBT centre
- Receive official communication from JAMB
Once generated, the Profile Code is permanent and will be used for all future JAMB activities.
Requirements to Generate JAMB Profile Code 2026
Before you proceed, ensure you have the following:
- National Identification Number (NIN)
- A unique personal phone number (SIM)
- At least ₦50 airtime on the phone line
Important:
- The phone number must not have been used by another candidate before.
- One phone number can only be used by one candidate for life.
- Always remember and keep the SIM safe. It will be used for all future JAMB communication.
How to Get JAMB Profile Code for 2026 via SMS
Follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Send Your NIN to JAMB
Using the phone number you want to use for JAMB, send an SMS in this format:
“NIN 12345678901“
Send to:
- 55019 or
- 66019
Make sure:
- There is a space between NIN and your 11-digit NIN
- You do not use commas, dots, or symbols
To generate their profile codes, candidates are expected to send: NIN (one space) and then their NIN number (eleven digits number) by text (SMS) to either 55019 or 66019 from their personal GSM number. For example, the SMS should look like this; “NIN 12345678901” (without the quotation marks); send it to 55019 or 66019. Remember, “12345678901” should be your own NIN.
Step 2: Receive Your JAMB Profile Code
After sending the SMS, you will receive a reply containing your 10-character JAMB Profile Code on the same phone number.
Returning candidates will receive the same Profile Code used in previous years.
Important Notes About JAMB Phone Number
- The phone number used is automatically linked to your JAMB profile
- JAMB does not allow change of phone number after profile creation
- All alerts, e-PINs, and admission updates will be sent to this number
Tip: Keep My Number (KMN)
If you bought a SIM solely for JAMB registration, ask your network provider about the Keep My Number (KMN) service. This keeps the SIM active for up to 3 years, even if unused.
How to Get JAMB e-PIN After Profile Code
Once you have your Profile Code:
- Visit any approved sales outlet:
- Banks
- Mobile Money Operators
- Microfinance Banks
- USSD partners
- Present your JAMB Profile Code
- An e-PIN will be sent to your registered phone number via SMS
How to Complete JAMB Registration 2026
Take your Profile Code and e-PIN to any JAMB-accredited CBT centre.
At the centre:
- Your biometrics (all ten fingerprints) will be captured
- A live photograph will be taken
- No passport photographs are accepted
Only candidates with successful biometric verification will be allowed to sit for the UTME or Mock exam.
Important JAMB Rules Candidates Must Know
- Proxy or third-party registration is not allowed
- Parents or guardians must not register on behalf of candidates
- School or group-based registration is strictly prohibited
Candidates with biometric challenges must register at a JAMB State or National Office and will take their exam in Abuja on the final exam day.
How to Retrieve Lost UTME or DE PIN
UTME Candidates
Send:
UTMEPIN
to 55019
Direct Entry Candidates
Send:
DEPIN
to 55019
Use the same phone number used during registration.
Common JAMB Profile Code Problems and Solutions
No Reply After Sending NIN
Solution:
- Insert the SIM into another phone and resend the SMS
Phone Number Already Used
Solution:
- Use another SIM that has never been used for JAMB
Insufficient Balance
Solution:
- Ensure you have at least ₦50 airtime
Invalid Character Error
Solution:
- Send SMS strictly as:
NIN 12345678901
Record Not Found for NIN
Solution:
- Visit any NIMC centre to verify your NIN details
Date of Birth Error
Solution:
- Correct it at NIMC. This may cost around ₦15,000
Profile Code Used by Another Number
Solution:
- Send RESEND to 55019 using your old number
Network or Error 540
Solution:
- Try again later. It is usually a temporary network issue
How to Contact NIMC for JAMB Profile Code Issues
Send an email to:
[email protected]
Include:
- Full Name
- NIN
- Phone number used
- Clear explanation of the issue
If there is no response after 5 working days, resend the email.
How to Complain to JAMB Support Portal
- Visit support.jamb.gov.ng
- Click Create Support Ticket
- Select Profile Code Issues
- Provide detailed explanation
- Submit and keep your transaction ID
Final Advice for 2026 UTME Candidates
Generating your JAMB Profile Code correctly is the foundation of a successful UTME registration. Always:
- Use the correct SMS format
- Keep your phone number safe
- Avoid third-party registration
If you found this guide helpful, share it with other candidates to help them avoid costly mistakes.
If you have questions, drop them in the comments and we’ll gladly help.
