The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has reviewed its policy on swapping candidates' registered phone numbers and changing registered email addresses ahead of the 2027 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The new policy, which takes effect from Monday, September 21, 2026, introduces a controlled process backed by enhanced identity and biometric verification to protect candidates' records from impersonation, fraud, and unauthorized alterations.
Under the revised arrangement, candidates who genuinely lose access to the phone numbers or email accounts originally linked to their JAMB profiles can now update the credentials through a controlled verification process. Candidates seeking a SIM swap or email change must complete the required payment through their JAMB e-Facility profile and visit an authorized CBT, Professional Test Centre (PTC), or JAMB State Office.
The Board had previously prohibited SIM swapping and changes to registered email addresses as part of measures to protect candidates' records against fraud and other security vulnerabilities. However, JAMB said the restriction had created difficulties for genuine candidates who subsequently lost access to their registered phone numbers or email accounts and could no longer recover them.
The reviewed policy is designed to provide relief to candidates who are unable to use their previously registered phone numbers for subsequent UTME exercises or whose registered email accounts can no longer be recovered. JAMB stressed that the service would be subject to strict authentication procedures, including biometric verification and a duly executed court affidavit.
The SIM swap and/or email change service will be available only once to each candidate. Candidates seeking to use the service are required to provide their new phone number and/or email address, as applicable, and undergo biometric verification before selecting the required service.
JAMB advised candidates to use the service strictly for genuine cases and warned them to patronize only designated and authorized centres. The Board also urged candidates to avoid relying on unauthorized intermediaries who may attempt to exploit the process or obtain sensitive personal information.
The new procedure combines payment, physical presence at designated centres, biometric verification, and documentary evidence before changes can be effected. JAMB said a confirmation message would be displayed after the transaction had been completed, and the concession is intended for genuine cases involving loss of access to registered credentials.
Key points
- JAMB introduces a controlled process for swapping phone numbers and changing email addresses.
- The service will be available only once to each candidate.
- Candidates must undergo biometric verification and provide a duly executed court affidavit.
