Starting your journey into a Nigerian university or polytechnic begins with one crucial step: the JAMB registration. At the heart of this process is the JAMB Profile Code, a unique 10-digit number that serves as your primary identifier. Without it, you simply cannot proceed to purchase your e-PIN or register for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) or Direct Entry (DE) exams.
This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough on how to generate your JAMB profile code for the 2025 registration exercise. We will cover the official methods, explain how to troubleshoot common problems, and answer all your pressing questions to ensure your registration is smooth and successful.
Before You Start: What You Need to Generate Your Profile Code
Before you attempt to create your code, make sure you have the following essentials ready. This preparation will save you time and prevent common errors.
- A valid National Identification Number (NIN). This is a mandatory requirement from JAMB.
- A personal mobile phone number that has not been used by another candidate for JAMB registration in the past.
- A minimum of N50 airtime balance on your phone line to cover the SMS service charge.
How to Generate Your JAMB Profile Code: 2 Easy Methods for 2025
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has made the process straightforward. You can generate your code in minutes using one of two reliable methods directly from your mobile phone.
Method 1: Using the SMS Shortcode (55019 or 66019)
This is the most common and highly recommended method for generating your JAMB profile code. It is fast, efficient, and provides a record of your code in your SMS inbox.
Step 1: Open Your Messaging App Unlock your phone and navigate to the application you use for sending and receiving text messages (SMS).
Step 2: Compose the Message In the message body, type the word NIN, leave a single space, and then type your 11-digit National Identification Number. The format must be exact.
For example, if your NIN is 12345678901, your message should look like this: NIN 12345678901
Step 3: Send to the Correct Shortcode Send this message to 55019 or 66019. Both numbers work perfectly. Using either shortcode will deliver the same result.
Step 4: Receive Your Profile Code Within a few minutes, you will receive a reply SMS from JAMB. This message will contain your unique 10-digit JAMB Profile Code and your full name as registered with NIMC. Be sure to write this code down somewhere safe or save the message.
Method 2: Using the USSD Code
As an alternative to the SMS method, you can use a USSD code. This can be particularly useful if you are having trouble with your SMS service.
Step 1: Open Your Phone’s Dialer Go to the screen where you normally make phone calls.
Step 2: Enter the USSD String Type the following code sequence, replacing “YourNIN” with your 11-digit NIN: *55019*1*YourNIN#.
Alternatively, you can use the second shortcode: *66019*1*YourNIN#.
Step 3: Press the Call Button Once the code is entered correctly, press the call or send button.
Step 4: Confirm and Receive Your 10-digit profile code will be displayed on your screen. In some cases, it may also be sent to you as an SMS for your records.
Common Problems and Solutions When Generating Profile Code
Encountering an error can be frustrating, but most issues have simple solutions. Here’s a breakdown of the most common problems and exactly how to fix them.
Problem: No Reply or Delayed Response After Sending SMS
If you’ve sent the SMS but haven’t received a reply, don’t panic. This is usually due to network issues.
- Cause: This often happens due to high network traffic (many candidates trying at once), insufficient airtime, or a poor network signal.
- Solution: First, confirm you have at least N50 airtime. If you do, wait patiently for a few hours. If you still get no response, try sending the message again during off-peak hours, like late at night or very early in the morning.
Error: “NIN Already Used by Another Number” or “NIN has been used”
This error is a common point of confusion for candidates who have registered for JAMB before.
- Cause: Your NIN is permanently linked to the profile you created in a previous year. You cannot create a new profile.
- Solution: You must use the same profile code from the previous year. To retrieve it, simply send the keyword RESEND from your previously used phone number to 55019. If you no longer have access to that SIM card, you must visit an accredited JAMB CBT centre for assistance.
Error: “Invalid NIN” or “Record Not Found”
This error message points to an issue with the NIN you provided.
- Cause: You may have made a typographical error when typing your 11-digit NIN, or your NIN has not been fully validated and linked by NIMC.
- Solution: Carefully double-check your NIN and send the message again. If the error persists, you will need to visit a NIMC enrollment centre to verify the status of your NIN.
Error: “Date of Birth Mismatch”
This means the date of birth associated with your NIN does not align with JAMB’s records.
- Cause: There is a discrepancy in the date of birth on your NIMC data.
- Solution: You must visit a NIMC enrollment centre to file for a data correction. This must be resolved before you can proceed with your JAMB registration.
What to Do After You Get Your JAMB Profile Code
Generating your profile code is the first victory. Here are the immediate next steps on your registration journey.
Step 1: Purchase the JAMB e-PIN With your profile code, you can now purchase your registration e-PIN from an accredited vending outlet, such as a bank, mobile money operator, or online payment platform.
Step 2: Visit an Accredited JAMB CBT Centre Registration cannot be done on your own. You must take your profile code and e-PIN to an officially accredited JAMB CBT Centre.
Step 3: Complete Biometric Verification and Registration At the centre, an official will use your profile code to pull up your data from the NIN database. They will then capture your biometric information (fingerprints) and complete your registration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the JAMB Profile Code
Here are quick answers to some of the most common questions candidates ask.
How can I retrieve my lost JAMB Profile Code?
To retrieve a lost or forgotten profile code, send the keyword RESEND as an SMS to 55019 or 66019. You must send this message from the same phone number you used to register initially.
Can I use last year’s profile code for this year’s JAMB?
Yes, absolutely. If you have registered for JAMB in the past with your NIN, JAMB requires that you use the same profile. Your profile code remains the same.
How much does it cost to get the JAMB profile code?
The service costs a flat fee of N50. This amount is deducted directly from your phone’s airtime balance when you use the SMS or USSD service.
Can I generate a profile code for someone else with my phone?
No. The phone number used for generating the code is automatically linked to the candidate’s profile for all future communications from JAMB. You must use your own personal and unique phone number.
What is the difference between the 55019 and 66019 shortcodes?
Both 55019 and 66019 are official JAMB shortcodes for the same purpose. The provision of two numbers helps to manage network traffic and gives candidates an alternative if one network is experiencing delays.
Conclusion
Securing your JAMB Profile Code is the foundational step to achieving your academic ambitions. By following the simple SMS and USSD methods outlined in this guide, you can complete this task quickly and efficiently. Always remember to double-check your NIN, use your personal phone number, and keep your profile code confidential.
With your code in hand, you are now ready to move forward with purchasing your e-PIN and completing your registration. We wish you the very best in the upcoming UTME/DE examinations and your entire admission process.
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