For every student planning to sit for the 2026/2027 JAMB UTME, there is one process you must get right from the very beginning: obtaining your JAMB ePIN.
Every year, thousands of candidates delay their registration, lose money, or miss out entirely, not because they are not serious, but because they misunderstood how the ePIN process works. Some rely on café operators, some trust social media rumours, while others simply wait too long and rush at the last minute.
The result? Errors that can cost an entire admission year.
This guide was written to eliminate confusion completely. By the time you finish reading, you will understand:
- What the JAMB ePIN really is
- Why is it compulsory
- All the official and approved ways to get it
- The mistakes candidates keep making
- What to do immediately after you receive it
If you are serious about gaining admission in 2026/2027, read this slowly and carefully.
What Is the JAMB ePIN and Why Is It Important?
The JAMB ePIN is a unique payment and registration code issued by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board. It serves as your official authorization to begin UTME registration at an accredited CBT centre or on the JAMB portal.
Think of the ePIN as your entry ticket into the JAMB system. Even if you have your NIN and profile code, you cannot complete registration without it.
Once issued, the ePIN is linked directly to:
- Your JAMB profile
- Your NIN
- Your phone number
This is why JAMB insists that candidates use their personal phone numbers and correct details throughout the process.
What You Need to Buy Your JAMB ePIN
Before attempting to buy your JAMB ePIN, make sure the following are ready:
You must have a valid National Identification Number (NIN). JAMB does not allow registration without NIN, and this rule is strictly enforced.
You must also have a personal phone number that is active and accessible. This number will be used to receive your profile code, ePIN, and future JAMB notifications such as exam dates and admission updates.
Finally, ensure your SIM card is properly linked to your NIN. Many candidates fail at this stage because their SIM is registered under a parent or guardian’s name.
Step 1: How to Generate Your JAMB Profile Code
Your profile code is required before you can buy the ePIN.
To generate it, use your personal phone number and send an SMS in this exact format:
Type NIN, leave a space, then type your 11-digit NIN number. Send it to 55019 or 66019
Within a short time, JAMB will send you a 10-character profile code via SMS. This profile code is extremely important and should be kept safe, as you will need it for payment and registration.
If you do not receive a profile code, it usually means there is an issue with your NIN or SIM registration, which must be resolved before proceeding.
Step 2: Approved Ways to Buy Your JAMB 2026/2027 ePIN
JAMB provides multiple official channels for purchasing the ePIN to make the process easier for candidates nationwide. You can choose the option that is most convenient for you.
Buying Your JAMB ePIN Through Banks
You can walk into any approved commercial bank and request to buy the JAMB ePIN. You will be asked to provide your profile code, after which payment will be made.
Once payment is successful, the ePIN will be sent to your phone number or printed on a receipt given to you by the bank.
JAMB partners with several commercial banks to sell e-PINs. Below are the approved banks that you can go to purchase your e-PIN:
- Access Bank
- First Bank
- Zenith Bank
- GTBank
- Union Bank
- UBA
- Fidelity Bank
- Sterling Bank
Step 2: Buying the JAMB ePIN Online via the JAMB Portal
Candidates who are comfortable with online transactions can buy the ePIN directly from the official JAMB portal.
You will be required to enter your profile code, make payment using a debit card or online banking option, and then receive your ePIN via SMS or email.
This method is fast but should only be done on the official JAMB website to avoid fraud.
Once JAMB activates the portal for buying e-PIN, this is the most direct and secure method to buy it.
- Visit the official JAMB portal
- Log in using your email and profile details
- Select Buy UTME e-PIN
- Confirm your profile code and phone number
- Proceed to payment using ATM/Debit card or Online bank transfer (where available)
The e-PIN will be sent to you via SMS to your registered phone number, and it may also appear on your JAMB profile dashboard
Save the SMS and keep the code safe.
Step 3: Buying the JAMB ePIN at Accredited CBT Centres
Many candidates prefer to buy their ePIN directly at JAMB-accredited CBT centres. This is often convenient because registration can begin immediately after purchase.
Ensure the centre is officially accredited and request a receipt or confirmation message showing your ePIN.
How Much Does the JAMB ePIN Cost?
The cost of the JAMB e-PIN for 2026 is ₦6,700 (without mock) and ₦7,700 (with mock), and this price is fixed by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board and applies to all candidates nationwide. There is no difference in price whether you buy online or through a bank.
What to Do After You Get Your ePIN
Once you receive your ePIN, the next step is to proceed to an accredited CBT centre to complete your UTME registration.
At the centre, your biometric data will be captured, your subject combination confirmed, and your exam details finalized.
Keep your ePIN message or receipt safe until registration is completed successfully.
Take Note
Many problems candidates face can be avoided easily.
Using someone else’s phone number is one of the most common errors. This often leads to lost profile codes, missed alerts, and difficulty accessing CAPS later.
Another common mistake is attempting to buy the ePIN before resolving NIN or SIM issues. This results in repeated errors and wasted time.
Rushing to unofficial websites or agents is also dangerous. Always use approved channels only.
Important Advice for JAMB 2026/2027 Candidates
Do not wait until the last week of registration to buy your ePIN. Delays, network issues, and centre congestion are more common toward the deadline.
Always double check messages from JAMB and keep records of your profile code and ePIN.
Most importantly, rely on trusted education platforms like MyEduSOS for accurate, verified updates rather than social media rumours.
