1. What is a JAMB Profile Code?
The JAMB Profile Code is a unique, 10-digit identifier required for all UTME and Direct Entry registrations. Think of it as your digital registration key—it's the critical first step that links your personal data, including your National Identification Number (NIN), to your official JAMB records. You cannot purchase the ePIN or complete your registration without it.
2. Returning Candidates: Reusing an Old Number
If you've previously registered for JAMB, the process is streamlined. You must reuse the same GSM telephone number that was tied to your last profile code creation and registration. This number is permanently linked to your JAMB profile, ensuring data consistency.
How to Retrieve Your Old Profile Code
Forget your old profile code? No worries! Use the exact same mobile number and follow these simple steps:
- Use the same mobile number you used previously.
- Send the keyword RESEND as an SMS.
- Send the SMS to either 55019 or 66019.
- Your old JAMB Profile Code will be sent to you. Use this code to purchase your new e-PIN.
3. New Candidates: Registering with a New Number
First-time candidates must follow the standard process to link their NIN and create their unique JAMB Profile Code.
Step-by-Step Guide for New Registration
- Ensure the phone number you use has never been used for any past UTME/DE registration. Avoid using postpaid or special bundle SIM cards.
- Ensure your line has a minimum airtime balance of N50 for the SMS charge.
- Send your NIN via SMS in the specific format below:
- Format: NIN [space] Your 11-digit NIN
- Example: NIN 00123456789
- Send the SMS to 55019 or 66019.
- You will receive an SMS containing your JAMB Profile Code and registration details.
4. Recovering Lost JAMB Profile Codes and ePins
Lost Profile Codes
If you lose your code after generating it, simply send the keyword RESEND as a text message to 55019 or 66019 from the same mobile number.
Lost ePins (After Successful Payment)
If you paid but lost the ePin, send the relevant keyword to 55019 or 66019 to retrieve it:
- For UTME Candidates: Send UTMEPIN
- For Direct Entry Candidates: Send DEPIN
5. Resetting Forgotten Profile Password
To reset a lost or forgotten profile password, send the following format from your registered mobile number:
- Format: password [space] your registered email address
- Send to: 55019 or 66019
6. Resolving Common JAMB Profile Code & NIN Challenges
Don't panic if you hit a snag! Here are the solutions to the most common profile code generation problems:
| Challenge / Error Message | Immediate Solution / Action Required |
|---|---|
| NIN Record Not Found or Unrecognized NIN | Double-check the NIN. If correct, immediately visit a NIMC Centre for verification or data synchronization. |
| Phone Number Already Used by Another JAMB Candidate | Obtain and use a new phone line that has never been used for any past JAMB registration. |
| Non-Response or Failed SMS Send | Ensure your SIM has over N50 balance. Try resending the SMS using a different phone to check for device network issues. |
| Inaccurate Date of Birth in NIN Records | You must rectify your birth date at the NIMC office. |
| Invalid Characters Detected in SMS | Ensure the SMS contains only: NIN, a single space, and the 11-digit NIN. No commas, periods, etc. |
| Profile Code Already Linked to Another Number | Use the initial phone number and send RESEND to 55019 or 66019. |
7. Reaching Out to JAMB Support for Ongoing Issues
If the troubleshooting steps fail, open an official support ticket:
- Go to the JAMB support portal: https://www.jamb.gov.ng/support.
- Select the appropriate prompt. For profile issues, choose “2026 NIN RELATED ISSUE.”
- Provide a concise subject and describe your problem in detail in the message box.
- Attach any relevant screenshots of the error.
- Send the query and keep your transaction ID safe for follow-up.
8. Completing Your Registration at a JAMB CBT Centre
After successfully obtaining your JAMB Profile Code and purchasing your ePIN, you must proceed to any JAMB accredited CBT centre to complete your full biometric and data registration for the 2026 UTME or DE examination. Do not attempt to complete the process anywhere else!
