If you want to register for the UTME, one of the first requirements from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is your profile code.
However, many candidates face issues such as not receiving the SMS, losing the code, or deleting the message. If that happened to you, don’t worry — retrieving your JAMB profile code is simple and can be done in minutes.
In this article, you will learn how to retrieve JAMB profile code in 2026, why you may not receive it, and the exact solutions approved by JAMB.
What Is JAMB Profile Code?
The JAMB profile code is a 10-digit unique number generated using your National Identification Number (NIN). It links your personal data to JAMB’s registration system.
You need this code to:
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Buy JAMB ePIN
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Register for UTME/DE
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Access JAMB portal services
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Print examination slip
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Check admission status
Without the profile code, you cannot complete JAMB registration.
How to buy JAMB ePIN
JAMB Registration Deadline
JAMB Accredited CBT Centres for all state
How to Retrieve JAMB Profile Code (SMS Method)
The official retrieval method is via SMS using the same phone number used earlier.
Step-by-Step Retrieval
According to the Official JAMB Website, to retrieve a lost Profile Code, send the word [RESEND] from the same mobile number to 55019 or 66019 as a text message. Also, Candidates can reset lost or forgotten profile passwords on their registered cell phone number by sending the word “PASSWORD” space [the email address] from the same mobile number as a text message to 55019 or 66019.
If the e-PIN is not received or Lost, send [UTMEPIN] from the unique number to 55019 or 66019 for UTME, respectively. The e-PIN would then be retrieved and delivered to the candidate’s unique phone number.
This works only if:
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The SIM was used for the initial NIN submission
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The SIM is active
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It has airtime (₦50 SMS charge)
Alternative Method: Retrieve Using NIN Again
If you lost the original SMS completely:
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Type: NIN [your 11-digit NIN]
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Send to 55019 or 66019
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JAMB will regenerate your profile code
Example:
You will receive:
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Profile code
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Registered name
Why You May Not Receive JAMB Profile Code
These are the most common issues that most candidates are facing:
1. Wrong SIM Used
The code is tied to the first phone number used.
Using another SIM will not work.
2. No Airtime
JAMB SMS service costs about ₦50.
Without airtime, delivery fails.
3. NIN Not Linked Properly
If NIN data does not match your name or DOB, JAMB cannot generate the code.
4. Network Delay
High traffic during registration periods can delay SMS delivery.
What to Do If RESEND Is Not Working
Follow these fixes in order:
Fix 1: Ensure the SIM is the same as the original
Fix 2: Load at least ₦100 airtime
Fix 3: Send NIN again
Fix 4: Restart phone
Fix 5: Try later (peak traffic hours)
Retrieve Profile Code at CBT Centre
If SMS still fails:
Visit any JAMB-accredited CBT centre with:
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NIN slip
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Phone number used
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Full name
The CBT operator can retrieve your profile code from the JAMB database.
Important JAMB Profile Code Rules
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One candidate = one profile code
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Code never expires
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The same code is used every year
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Cannot be changed
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Linked permanently to NIN
Even if you registered in past years, your old profile code still works.
Common Mistakes Candidates Make
Avoid these frequent errors:
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Using a new SIM instead of the original
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Typing NIN incorrectly
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Sending to the wrong number
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No airtime
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Multiple NIN submissions
These cause most retrieval failures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I retrieve my JAMB profile code?
Send RESEND to 55019 or 66019 using the same phone number used for NIN registration.
How do I get my JAMB profile code if I lost my SIM?
You must retrieve the SIM first.
JAMB cannot send the profile code to a new number.
Can I create another JAMB profile code?
No. JAMB allows only one profile code per candidate linked to NIN.
Is JAMB profile code the same every year?
Yes. Your profile code remains valid for life.
Why is JAMB not sending my profile code?
Common reasons include wrong SIM, no airtime, NIN mismatch, or network delay.
Can the CBT centre retrieve my profile code?
Yes. Accredited CBT centres can retrieve it using your NIN.
How long does it take to receive the profile code?
Usually, seconds to 5 minutes. During peak periods, it may take longer.
Final Advice for Candidates
If you cannot find your JAMB profile code:
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First send RESEND
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Then send NIN again
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Then visit the CBT centre
These three methods solve nearly all cases.
Remember: your profile code is permanent and essential for UTME registration, so keep it safe after retrieval.
If you have questions to ask regarding how to Retrieve JAMB Profile code, please drop them in the comment section. Our team will respond to you immediately.