JAMB Lifts Ban on SIM Swap, Email Changes for Candidates
By Rabiu Francis Published: Oct 2, 2026The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has lifted its previous restriction on SIM swap and registered email address changes, allowing eligible candidates who have lost access to their registered phone numbers or email accounts to update their details.
JAMB Lifts Ban on SIM Swap, Email Changes for Candidates
The new JAMB SIM swap and email change policy introduces a controlled process backed by identity and biometric verification to protect candidates’ records against fraud, impersonation and unauthorised changes.
The revised arrangement takes effect from Monday, September 21, 2026.
Why JAMB Changed Its SIM Swap and Email Policy
JAMB had previously banned changes to candidates’ registered GSM numbers and email addresses because of security vulnerabilities associated with such changes.
According to the Board, the policy has now been reviewed following improvements in its security system, particularly enhanced identity verification and biometric authentication.
The new process is intended to assist candidates who genuinely lose access to their registered credentials without compromising the security of their JAMB records.
Who Can Apply for JAMB SIM Swap or Email Change?
The service is available to candidates who have genuinely lost access to their registered GSM numbers or email accounts.
This includes candidates whose registered phone numbers are no longer accessible and those who need their phone numbers for registration for subsequent UTME examinations.
Candidates who are unable to recover their registered email accounts can also apply to change their email addresses through the approved process.
However, JAMB stressed that the service is subject to strict authentication procedures.
JAMB SIM Swap and Email Change Can Only Be Done Once
One of the major conditions attached to the new policy is that the SIM swap and/or email address change service can only be used once.
JAMB said the restriction is intended to prevent abuse of the process and protect candidates from unauthorised alterations to their records.
The Board also said the measure would reduce the difficulties candidates face when they lose access to the phone numbers or email accounts linked to their JAMB profiles.
Where to Change Your JAMB Phone Number or Email Address
Candidates can access the service only at designated JAMB Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centres, including Professional Test Centres (PTC), Professional Registration Centres (PRC) and State Offices where applicable.
Candidates should avoid using unauthorised agents or centres to prevent possible fraud or complications with their records.
Requirements for JAMB SIM Swap and Email Change
Candidates applying for the service are required to provide:
- The new GSM number and/or email address, depending on the service required.
- A duly executed Court Affidavit, scanned and ready for upload.
- Their existing JAMB profile details for verification.
How to Change Your JAMB Registered Phone Number or Email
Candidates who meet the requirements can follow the approved process below:
- Step 1: Log in to JAMB e-Facility
Log into your JAMB e-Facility profile using your existing address, Registration Number or Profile Code.
- Step 2: Make the required payment
Select “SIM Swap/eMail Change Payment” from the available menu and pay the prescribed fee.
- Step 3: Visit a JAMB CBT Centre
Proceed to a designated JAMB CBT (PTC/PRC) Centre and access the SIM Swap/eMail Change QuickLink.
Enter your Profile Code or existing GSM number and click “Fetch Details.”
- Step 4: Complete biometric verification
You will be required to undergo biometric verification before selecting the service you need.
The available options include:
- GSM Number only
- Email Address only
- Both GSM Number and Email Address
- Step 5: Enter your new details
Enter the new GSM number and/or email address and upload the scanned copy of your duly executed Court Affidavit.
- Step 6: Submit the request
Click “Update” to complete the process.
A confirmation message will be displayed once the update has been successfully completed.
JAMB Warns Candidates to Use Approved Centres
JAMB advised candidates to exercise caution when seeking to change their registered phone numbers or email addresses.
The Board urged candidates to use only designated JAMB CBT, PTC or PRC Centres and follow the approved procedure.
The revised policy is intended to make it easier for genuine candidates to regain access to their JAMB credentials while maintaining safeguards against impersonation, fraud and unauthorised changes.
What Candidates Should Know About the New JAMB Policy
Candidates who have lost access to their registered SIM cards or email accounts can now seek an official update through the approved channels.
However, the service is not an unrestricted change facility. Applicants must complete the required identity and biometric verification, provide the necessary documentation and use the service only once.
The policy therefore provides a controlled option for candidates who genuinely need to recover access to their JAMB registration details.
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About the Author Rabiu Francis
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