The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has lifted its long-standing restriction on the swapping of candidates’ registered GSM numbers and changing of registered email addresses.
The new policy, which takes effect on Monday, September 21, 2026, is aimed at assisting candidates who have lost access to their registered phone numbers or email accounts.
According to JAMB’s Acting Director of Public Affairs and Protocols, Dr Fabian Benjamin, candidates can now update their details through a controlled verification process designed to prevent fraud and unauthorised access.
JAMB had previously banned SIM swaps and email changes due to security concerns surrounding alterations to candidates’ registered credentials. However, the Board said improvements in identity authentication and biometric verification have made it possible to review the policy.
Under the revised arrangement, candidates will be required to undergo strict authentication procedures. The service will also be available to each candidate only once.
The SIM swap and email change service will be provided exclusively at designated JAMB Computer-Based Test (CBT) PTC/PRC Centres, including State Offices where applicable.
Candidates must provide their new GSM number and/or email address, as well as a duly executed court affidavit, which must be scanned and uploaded during the process.
How to Change SIM or Email Details
JAMB outlined the following procedure:
1. Log into the JAMB e-Facility profile using the existing credentials, email address, registration number or profile code.
2. Select “SIM Swap/eMail Change Payment” and pay the prescribed fee.
3. Visit a designated JAMB CBT (PTC/PRC) Centre.
4. Access the SIM Swap/eMail Change Quicklink.
5. Enter the profile code or existing GSM number and select “Fetch Details.”
6. Complete biometric verification and select whether to change the GSM number, email address, or both.
7. Enter the new details, upload the scanned court affidavit and click “Update” to complete the process.
A confirmation message will be displayed after the update is successfully completed.
JAMB urged candidates to use the facility only for genuine cases and warned them against patronising unauthorised outlets.
The Board said the revised policy was intended to balance data security with improved service delivery, ensuring that genuine candidates who lose access to their registered credentials are not unnecessarily disadvantaged during the admission process.
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