Each year, thousands of students in Nigeria register for JAMB, yet many still feel confused about the steps, where to go, and what documents to bring.
If you’re planning to register or sit for JAMB UTME soon, this guide has everything you need.
Here, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to registering for JAMB UTME in Nigeria, explained in simple English with clear instructions.
Let’s get started! Whether it’s your first time or you’ve registered before, this guide will help you complete the process correctly and smoothly.
What Is JAMB UTME?
JAMB, which means Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, conducts the UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination). This exam is required for gaining entry into:
- Universities
- Polytechnics
- Colleges of education
- Innovation enterprise institutions in Nigeria
Requirements for JAMB Registration.
Before you start the Jamb UTME registration process, here are the things you need to get ready:
1. A valid and active email address (Gmail is preferred).
2. Phone number (linked to your NIN).
3. National Identification Number (NIN)
4. O’Level result (WAEC, NECO, or awaiting result)
5. Profile code (generated using your NIN)
6. Money for registration and optional mock exam
7. Choice of institutions and courses
8. Passport photograph (taken at the CBT center).
Now you must have arranged all of these documents, it’s time to register or apply. See how it works!
5 Step-by-Step Guide to Register for JAMB UTME in Nigeria (2026)
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to register for JAMB UTME in Nigeria:
Step 1: Get Your National Identification Number (NIN)
You cannot register for JAMB without a valid NIN.
How to get your original NIN:
a. Visit any NIMC center, bank, or telecom provider
b. Fill the form and register
c. You’ll get a slip with your 11-digit NIN
Already have a NIN? That’s great! Let’s move to the next step.
Step 2: Create Your JAMB Profile (Via SMS)
Send an SMS to 55019 or 66019 using this format:
NIN [your 11-digit NIN number]
Example:
NIN 12345678901
Send it to 55019 or 66019 (using your personal line — not someone else’s!).
You’ll receive:
1. A 10-digit JAMB Profile Code
2. Your full name (as registered with NIMC)
Note that ₦50 will be deducted for the SMS.
Step 3: Buy the JAMB e-PIN
Once you get your Profile Code, you can now buy the JAMB e-PIN.
Where to buy:
1. Banks (e.g., Access, First Bank, Zenith, etc.)
2. Online payment platforms (Remita, Paga, Quickteller)
3. Mobile banking apps
4. POS agents
Here’s a Cost Breakdown (2026 estimate):
JAMB Form: ₦4,700
Mock Exam (optional): ₦1,500
CBT service fee: Included
Keep your e-PIN safe because you’ll need it at the CBT center.
Step 4: Go to an Accredited JAMB CBT Center
Now it’s time to complete your Jamb UTME registration at an approved CBT center.
Below are things you’ll need to submit there:
1. You submit your e-PIN and Profile Code.
2. You provide personal details, O’Level result, and course choices.
3. Your passport photo is taken.
4. You get a printout of your registration slip.
Advise: Do not register at a cyber café, as only accredited CBT centers are allowed for registration of JAMB UTME.
Step 5: Collect Your Registration Slip
After registration, the CBT center will give you:
a. Your JAMB Registration Slip
b. Exam details like date, time, and center, and later printed from the portal.
c. Confirmation of course and institution choices.
Keep this slip safe. You’ll need it for: Exam day, Printing exam schedule, Future reference
Extra Tips for Smooth JAMB Registration.
1. Make sure your names match across NIN, O’Level, and JAMB.
2. Use a phone number and email you can always access.
3. Double-check your course and school before final submission.
If using awaiting result, upload your result after WAEC/NECO release.
Overall, ensure to register early and avoid last-minute rush.
Read Also: How to Gain Admission Without JAMB in Nigeria (2026/2027)
FAQs on Step-by-Step Guide to Register for JAMB UTME in Nigeria (2026)
Here are some of the questions people also asked for Step-by-Step Guide to Register for JAMB UTME in Nigeria which might help you as well:
Q1. Can I register for JAMB without NIN?
No. NIN is compulsory for JAMB registration in Nigeria.
Q2. How much is JAMB form in 2026?
The JAMB UTME form costs about ₦4,700. Mock exam is extra ₦1,500 (optional).
Q3. Can I register for JAMB without email?
No. A valid email is needed to access the JAMB portal and receive updates.
Q4. Can I use someone else’s phone number for JAMB registration?
No. Use your own phone number to generate the profile code and receive updates.
Q5. What if I lost my profile code?
If you lost your profile code, just Send RESEND [NIN] to 55019 or 66019 again to recover it.
Q6. How many institutions can I choose?
You can select:
1. First choice: University/Polytechnic/College
2. Second: Polytechnic/College
3. Third & Fourth: Colleges, IEIs, or polytechnics
Q7. Can I change my course after registration?
Yes. After the exam, you can do a change of course or institution (with a small fee).
Q8. When is JAMB 2026 registration starting?
JAMB usually opens registration in January or February, but always confirm the date on the official JAMB website.
Final Thoughts
Registering for JAMB UTME is straightforward if you follow the proper steps outlined here.
Ensure all your documents are complete, your information is accurate, and that you register early at an accredited JAMB center.
With this step-by-step guide to registering for JAMB UTME in Nigeria, you’re fully prepared to begin the process confidently.
Good luck! If you find this guide helpful, don’t forget to share it with your family and friends.
