JAMB Profile Code 2026 UTME: How to Generate, Retrieve, and Fix Common Issues

JAMB Profile Code 2026: As the 2026 JAMB UTME and Direct Entry registration approaches, every candidate is required to generate a JAMB Profile Code before proceeding with registration. Without this code, you cannot purchase a JAMB ePIN or complete your registration at any accredited CBT centre.

This guide explains what the JAMB Profile Code is, how to generate it for 2026, how returning candidates can retrieve old codes, and how to solve common errors encountered during the process.

What Is a JAMB Profile Code

A JAMB Profile Code is a unique ten digit number issued by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board to every candidate. It is used to create and identify your JAMB profile throughout the admission process.

The profile code links your personal details from the National Identity Management Commission database to JAMB. Once generated, it is used for ePIN purchase, UTME or Direct Entry registration, examination, admission, and all official communication from JAMB.

Once a profile code is issued, it cannot be changed or transferred to another candidate.

Requirements to Generate JAMB Profile Code 2026

Before generating your profile code, ensure the following are in place:

You have a valid National Identification Number NIN
Your NIN details such as name and date of birth are correct
You have an active personal phone number that has not been used for JAMB registration
The SIM card is accessible and can receive SMS

All biodata used by JAMB is pulled directly from the NIMC database, so any error in your NIN record must be corrected before registration begins.

How to Generate JAMB Profile Code for 2026 UTME and Direct Entry

Follow these simple steps carefully:

Step 1: Use Your Personal Phone Number

The phone number you use becomes permanently linked to your JAMB profile. JAMB will use this number for all messages related to your application, examination, and admission.

Step 2: Send Your NIN via SMS

Open your SMS app and type your message in this exact format:

NIN followed by a space and then your 11 digit NIN number

Send the SMS to either 55019 or 66019

Example: NIN 12345678901

Ensure there are no extra spaces or symbols.

Step 3: Receive Your JAMB Profile Code

Within a few minutes, you will receive an SMS containing your ten digit JAMB Profile Code on the same phone number. This code confirms that your profile has been successfully created.

Step 4: Proceed with JAMB Registration

Take your profile code to any accredited JAMB CBT centre to purchase your ePIN and complete your UTME or Direct Entry registration.

Important Things Candidates Should Note

The phone number used to generate the profile code is automatically tied to the candidate
Once generated, the profile code cannot be changed
Personal details are fetched directly from NIMC and cannot be edited during profile creation
The same number must be used for ePIN purchase, password reset, and profile recovery

Information for Returning Candidates

Reusing a Previously Used Phone Number

Returning candidates are allowed to reuse the same phone number used in previous UTME or Direct Entry registrations. That number remains permanently attached to the candidate’s JAMB profile.

How to Retrieve an Old JAMB Profile Code

If you cannot find your previous profile code, simply send: RESEND to 55019 or 66019

This SMS must be sent from the same phone number originally used. Your profile code will be resent to you.

Note that an existing JAMB profile including phone number, email address, and profile code cannot be altered or transferred to another candidate.

Information for New Candidates

New candidates must use a phone number that has never been used for JAMB registration. The SMS format remains the same:

NIN space your 11 digit NIN
Send to 55019 or 66019

It is advised to avoid postpaid SIM cards or special data only lines, as they may delay message delivery.

How to Recover Lost JAMB ePIN

If you have paid for your JAMB form but misplaced the ePIN, you can retrieve it using the same registered phone number.

• For UTME candidates
  Send UTMEPIN to 55019 or 66019
• For Direct Entry candidates
  Send DEPIN to 55019 or 66019

Your ePIN will be resent to your phone.

How to Reset a Forgotten JAMB Profile Password

If you forget your JAMB profile password, send an SMS in the format below from your registered phone number:

password space your email address
Send to 55019 or 66019

The system will send password reset instructions to your email.

Common Problems During JAMB Profile Code Generation and Solutions

Error 550 or 66019

This usually means the SMS format is incorrect. Ensure you typed NIN followed by a space and your 11 digit NIN correctly before sending.

Number Already Registered

This indicates that the phone number has been used for another JAMB profile. Retrieve the original SIM card or use a different phone number if you are a new candidate.

Unable to Verify NIN

This error often occurs due to network or system delays. Wait for some time and try again later. Also confirm that your NIN details are valid and active.

Once your profile code is successfully generated, you are cleared to proceed with the 2026 JAMB UTME or Direct Entry registration without issues.

Recommended: JAMB Regsitration Form 2026: How to Register for UTME & Direct Entry

Good luck!