Before you can register for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) or Direct Entry (DE), you must first generate your JAMB Profile Code.

This unique 10-digit code is the gateway to purchasing your JAMB ePIN and completing your registration.

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) requires every candidate to generate a profile code using their National Identification Number (NIN) and a personal mobile phone number.

Without this code, you cannot proceed with UTME or Direct Entry registration.

We’ve got everything you need to know, including the SMS format, requirements, common errors, and how to retrieve a lost profile code.

What is a JAMB Profile Code?

A JAMB Profile Code is a unique identification number issued by JAMB after verifying your National Identification Number (NIN).

It links your personal information to your JAMB profile and remains associated with your registered phone number.

The profile code is required to:

• Purchase the JAMB ePIN
• Register for UTME or Direct Entry
• Access JAMB services
• Make profile corrections where applicable
• Retrieve examination information
• Complete future JAMB-related transactions

Requirements Before Generating Your Profile Code

Ensure you have the following:

• A valid National Identification Number (NIN)
• A personal GSM phone number
• The SIM is inserted in your phone
• At least ₦50 airtime for the SMS service
• Good network coverage

The phone number you use becomes your official contact for JAMB, so avoid using someone else’s SIM card.

JAMB advises candidates to use a personal number they will retain for future services.

How to Generate JAMB Profile Code

Follow these simple steps.

Step 1: Get Your NIN

If you do not already have a National Identification Number, enroll with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) before beginning your JAMB registration.

Step 2: Open Your SMS App

Using the phone number you want linked to your JAMB profile, compose a new text message.

Step 3: Type the Correct Format

Enter:

NIN 12345678901

Replace 12345678901 with your own 11-digit NIN.

There must be one space between NIN and your NIN.

Step 4: Send the SMS

Send the message to either:

• 55019
• 66019

JAMB officially supports both shortcodes.

Step 5: Receive Your Profile Code

If your NIN details are successfully verified, JAMB will send you an SMS containing your unique profile code along with your registered name.

Keep this message safe, as you will need the code to purchase your JAMB ePIN and complete registration.

What Happens After Getting the Profile Code?

Once you receive your profile code, the next steps are:

• Purchase your JAMB ePIN.
• Visit a JAMB-accredited CBT centre.
• Complete biometric capture.
• Submit your UTME or Direct Entry registration.
• Print your registration slip.

JAMB requires candidates to complete registration only at accredited CBT centres.

Can Returning Candidates Use an Old Profile Code?

Yes, but if your profile code is inactive, you can reactivate or retrieve it.

Simply send: RESEND to 55019, or 66019 using the same phone number originally linked to your profile.

How to Retrieve a Lost Profile Code

If you’ve misplaced your profile code, use the same GSM number you used during registration and send: RESEND to 55019 or 66019.

JAMB will resend your profile code to your phone.

How to Reset Your JAMB Profile Password

If you forget your JAMB password, send:

PASSWORD your-email@example.com to 55019 or 66019 using your registered phone number.

JAMB will help you reset the password associated with your profile.

Common Errors and How to Fix Them

NIN Not Found

Cause:

• Incorrect NIN
• NIN not properly registered

Solution:

Verify your NIN with NIMC before trying again.

Phone Number Already Used

JAMB does not allow one phone number to create multiple candidate profiles.

Solution:

Use a different personal phone number that has not previously been linked to another candidate.

Special Characters in Name

Some candidates receive messages indicating that their NIN record contains unsupported characters.

Solution:

Correct the affected details with NIMC before generating the profile code again.

No Response After Sending SMS

Possible reasons include:

• Poor network coverage
• Insufficient airtime
• Temporary service delay

Wait a few minutes and try again if necessary.

Guide for a Successful Profile Code Generation

• Use your own mobile number.
• Ensure your SIM is active.
• Double-check your NIN before sending the SMS.
• Maintain enough airtime.
• Save the SMS containing your profile code.
• Do not share your profile code with untrusted individuals.