Preparing for JAMB can feel confusing, especially if this is your first time navigating the process. But understanding how to register for the 2026 UTME early will save you stress and help you avoid common mistakes students make every year.
JAMB has released fresh guidelines, and you need to follow them carefully. This update was shared on their official X page, stressing how important it is for students to have their details, especially those linked to the National Identity Management Commission(NIMC), correct before anything else.
So if you are planning to write UTME next year, this guide will walk you through how to register step by step in the simplest way possible, so you do not get stuck along the way.
Registration Guidelines for 2026 UTME
Before you start the process, JAMB wants every candidate to confirm their personal information. This is a crucial part because any mistake with your NIN details can affect your whole registration. Below are the guidelines according to JAMB:
Ensure all your personal information matches.
Your NIN, email, phone number, and A-Level or O-Level details must be the same everywhere. JAMB pulls your information directly from NIMC, so once your profile code is created, you cannot change it; therefore, you must do it accurately.
Accuracy prevents future problems.
Any mismatch can delay your registration or cause errors in your UTME profile, potentially affecting your exam process. Double-check everything before moving to the next step.
Generate your profile code after confirming your details.
Once your information is correct, you can proceed to get your profile code, the first official step to register for the 2026 UTME.
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How To Generate Your Profile Code
- Send your NIN to 55019 or 66019: To begin, send your 11-digit NIN in this format: NIN 00000011111. Ensure you type it correctly to avoid delays or errors.
- JAMB will pull your details from NIMC: Once you send the message, JAMB automatically retrieves your biodata from NIMC. At this point, your information becomes locked, so whatever is on your NIMC record is what JAMB will use.
Ensure your details with NIMC are correct before proceeding with this step.
- Keep your profile code safe: After you receive your profile code, save it properly. You will need it to buy your e-PIN and complete your UTME registration at the CBT centre.
Step-by-Step Procedure for Registration
Understanding the full procedure is key for any student trying to register for UTME. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to register for the 2026 UTME:
1. Visit an approved JAMB or CBT centre.
After getting your profile code, the next step is to go to a nearby JAMB office or accredited CBT centre. Registration must be done in person to prevent fraud and avoid costly mistakes.
2. Buy your e-PIN from official sources.
At the centre, purchase your e-PIN from approved banks, online payment platforms, or authorised sellers within the CBT centre. Buying from unapproved sources can cause registration problems or even a scam, so stick to official vendors only.
3. Use the correct template and check your details.
Ensure you are given the proper registration template and take time to cross-check every detail before submitting. Once your form is submitted, errors are difficult to fix, so make this step crucial.
Important Tips for Candidates
JAMB shared some helpful reminders you must take note of when you are registering, and they are:
- First, make sure you correct any NIMC errors early, details as name arrangement, gender, date of birth, or state of origin. These details must match your school records.
- Secondly, your email and phone number are unique identifiers. This means you cannot share them with another candidate or use a number that is not working. Using the wrong contact information can affect your future updates when registering.
- If you experience any biometric issues during registration, go straight to a JAMB office. No CBT centre is allowed to force biometric capturing. A dual-screen system must also be used so you can confirm your photo and fingerprints in real time.
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Common Challenges During Profile Code Generation
Record Not Found” Error
Many students encounter this issue when their NIN details are not properly synced with NIMC. It is a common challenge during the profile code stage of registration.
Unable to verify your NIN at the moment [NIMC: UNKNOWN]
This message usually means NIMC’s server is slow or temporarily unavailable. If you see it, no need to panic; simply wait and try again later. Patience is part of navigating the UTME registration process.
Profile Codes Cannot Be Changed
Once your profile code is generated, it becomes permanent. This is why it’s important to correct any errors with NIMC before sending your NIN for verification.
When Will the 2026 UTME Form Be Available for Sale?
JAMB has confirmed that the UTME form for 2026 will be available from January to March 2026. This gives you enough time to prepare your documents and avoid last-minute pressure.
Students who start the process early face fewer challenges and have better chances of meeting all requirements on time. So if your goal is to stay ahead, begin preparing now by reviewing everything you need for registration in 2026.
Make sure you keep checking official JAMB announcements so you do not miss important updates.
Registering for UTME doesn’t have to be stressful. Once you understand the guidelines, the entire process becomes simple and manageable. Just follow the steps above carefully, and always use approved channels for your registration.
You deserve a smooth and successful JAMB experience. Start early, stay organised, and your 2026 UTME registration will be one of the easiest parts of your admission journey. You should also check our previous guide, as it will also help during your registration:
How to Change JAMB Institution/Course/Data after Registration
How To Upload WAEC/NECO Results On JAMB Portal
How to Check Your JAMB Admission Status Easily Online
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