JAMB Lifts Ban On SIM Swap, Email Change For UTME Candidates

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has lifted its long-standing ban on SIM card swapping and registered email address changes for candidates, introducing a new verification process that allows eligible candidates to update their credentials under strict security measures.

The new policy, which takes effect from Monday, September 21, 2026, is aimed at helping candidates who have lost access to the phone numbers or email addresses originally used for their JAMB registration.

JAMB announced the development in a statement issued on Monday by its Acting Director of Public Affairs and Protocols, Dr Fabian Benjamin.

According to the Board, candidates can now replace their registered GSM numbers, email addresses, or both through designated JAMB Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres after completing biometric verification and other identity authentication procedures.

JAMB explained that it had previously prohibited changes to registered SIM cards and email addresses due to security concerns regarding candidates’ profiles and admission records.

However, the Board said advances in identity authentication and biometric verification systems have made it possible to relax the policy without compromising the integrity of its database.

“The reviewed policy is intended to ensure that genuine candidates are not disadvantaged by circumstances beyond their control,” the statement said.

The Board noted that many candidates had been unable to access critical UTME services after losing their registered SIM cards or email accounts, creating challenges during admission and other post-registration processes.

Despite lifting the restriction, JAMB warned that the service will be available only once for each candidate.

It stressed that the concession is subject to strict verification procedures to prevent impersonation, fraud and unauthorised changes to candidates’ records.

JAMB also cautioned candidates against using unauthorised agents or centres for the process.

The Board said the SIM swap and email change service will be available exclusively at designated JAMB Professional Testing Centres (PTCs), Professional Registration Centres (PRCs), accredited CBT centres, and JAMB State Offices where applicable.

Candidates are required to provide a new GSM number and/or email address, along with a duly executed court affidavit, scanned and ready for upload.

JAMB outlined a seven-step procedure for candidates seeking to update their registration details:

Candidates are to log into the JAMB e-Facility portal using existing credentials, including the registered email address, registration number or profile code, select “SIM Swap/eMail Change Payment” from the menu and pay the prescribed fee, visit a designated JAMB CBT (PTC/PRC) Centre, open the SIM Swap/eMail Change Quicklink and enter the profile code or existing GSM number before selecting “Fetch Details.”

After “fetching details, complete biometric verification, choose the required service — GSM number only, email address only, or both, then enter the new details, upload the scanned court affidavit, and click “Update.”

A confirmation message will be displayed once the update has been successfully completed.

JAMB urged candidates to use the facility only for genuine cases and warned against patronising unauthorised outlets claiming to offer the service.

The Board said the revised policy reflects its commitment to balancing robust data security with improved service delivery for candidates.

According to JAMB, the measure is designed to ensure that legitimate candidates do not face unnecessary setbacks in their pursuit of admission into tertiary institutions while maintaining the security of candidates’ records.