By DAYO ADESULU
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has reviewed its policy on the swapping of candidates’ registered GSM numbers and changing of registered email addresses, allowing eligible candidates to update their details under a new, controlled process.
The new policy takes effect Monday, September 21, 2026, and is designed to assist candidates who have genuinely lost access to their registered SIM cards or email accounts.
Under the revised arrangement, candidates who can no longer access their registered GSM numbers, particularly those who need the numbers for registration for subsequent Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) exercises, can now request a SIM swap.
Similarly, candidates who have lost access to their registered email accounts and are unable to recover them can apply to change their registered email addresses.
Why JAMB Reviewed the Policy
JAMB had previously prohibited SIM swapping and email changes as part of measures to protect candidates’ records and prevent fraud.
According to the Board, the restrictions were introduced because changes to registered telephone numbers and email addresses could create security vulnerabilities and expose candidates to impersonation and unauthorised alterations of their records.
However, JAMB said it has now strengthened its security framework, particularly through enhanced identity and biometric verification systems.
The Board consequently reviewed the policy to provide relief for genuine candidates while maintaining safeguards against fraudulent requests.
JAMB SIM Swap and Email Change: One-Time Service
Although candidates can now access the services, JAMB stressed that the concession is subject to strict authentication procedures.
The measures are intended to prevent impersonation, fraud and unauthorised changes to candidates’ records.
Importantly, the SIM swap and/or email change service can only be used once by a candidate.
This means candidates are expected to carefully provide their new GSM number and/or email address before completing the process.
Where Candidates Can Change Their SIM or Email
JAMB said the service is available exclusively at designated JAMB Computer-Based Test (CBT) PTC/PRC Centres, including JAMB State Offices where applicable.
Candidates have therefore been advised not to patronise unauthorised individuals or attempt to process the change outside the designated centres.
Requirements for SIM Swap or Email Change
Candidates seeking to use the service must provide:
- The new GSM number and/or email address, depending on the service required.
- A duly executed Court Affidavit, scanned and ready for upload.
The affidavit forms part of the authentication requirements for the process.
Step-by-Step Process for JAMB SIM Swap and Email Change
JAMB outlined the following procedure for candidates:
1. Log into JAMB e-Facility
Candidates should log into their e-Facility profile using their existing credentials. They can use their registered email address, Registration Number or Profile Code.
2. Make Payment
From the menu, candidates should select “SIM Swap/eMail Change Payment” and pay the prescribed fee.
3. Visit a JAMB CBT Centre
After payment, candidates should proceed to a designated JAMB CBT PTC/PRC Centre and access the SIM Swap/eMail Change Quicklink.
They will then enter their Profile Code or existing GSM number and select “Fetch Details.”
4. Complete Biometric Verification
The candidate will undergo biometric verification before selecting the service required.
The available options are:
- GSM Number only
- Email Address only
- Both GSM Number and Email Address
5. Enter New Details and Upload Affidavit
Candidates should enter their new GSM number and/or email address, as applicable.
They must also upload the scanned copy of their duly executed Court Affidavit.
6. Submit the Request
Candidates should click “Update” to complete the process.
A confirmation message will be displayed if the update is successfully completed.
JAMB Warns Candidates Against Abuse
The Board advised candidates to use the service strictly for genuine cases involving loss of access to their registered credentials.
JAMB also urged candidates to patronise only designated CBT PTC/PRC Centres and State Offices where the service is available.
The reviewed policy is expected to reduce the difficulties candidates may face when they lose access to the telephone numbers or email accounts originally linked to their JAMB profiles.
For candidates preparing for future UTME exercises, the development could also make it easier to maintain access to their official JAMB credentials when their previous SIM cards or email accounts can no longer be recovered.
Why This Matters
A candidate’s registered telephone number and email address are important links to JAMB’s digital services and admission-related processes. Losing access to either credential can therefore create significant difficulties, particularly when the candidate needs to register for another examination or access information linked to the existing profile.
By allowing controlled changes, JAMB is seeking to balance data security with accessibility.
The one-time restriction and biometric authentication are also intended to ensure that the relaxation of the policy does not become an avenue for unauthorised persons to take control of candidates’ profiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can every JAMB candidate change their registered phone number?
No. The service is intended for candidates who have genuinely lost access to their registered GSM numbers. Strict authentication procedures apply.
Can candidates change their registered email addresses?
Yes. Candidates who can no longer recover their registered email accounts can apply for an email change under the new procedure.
How many times can the service be used?
JAMB said the SIM swap and/or email change service is available only once.
Where can candidates access the service?
The service is available at designated JAMB CBT PTC/PRC Centres, including State Offices where applicable.
Is biometric verification required?
Yes. Candidates must undergo biometric verification as part of the authentication process.
What document is required?
Candidates must provide a duly executed Court Affidavit, scanned and ready for upload.
Conclusion
JAMB’s revised SIM swap and email change policy provides a controlled avenue for candidates who have genuinely lost access to important credentials linked to their profiles.
While the Board has relaxed the previous restriction, the one-time limit, biometric verification and affidavit requirement show that the service remains subject to strict security controls.
Candidates are advised to provide accurate information, protect their new credentials and use only authorised JAMB centres to process the change.
Signed:
Fabian Benjamin, Ph.D., OrgExpert
Ag. Director, PAP
Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB)
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