NIN Now Compulsory for JAMB UTME Registration: What You Need to Know
Summary
NIN is now compulsory for JAMB UTME registration! Find out why this matters, how to get your NIN, and what you need to do to prepare for a stress-free registration experience.
The Federal Government has made National Identification Number (NIN) a mandatory requirement for JAMB UTME registration. If you're planning to write JAMB, you must have your NIN before you can register.
The Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, announced this policy during a ministerial press briefing in Abuja. JAMB is now working with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to implement this requirement.
Why NIN is Now Required
The government introduced this requirement to stop multiple registrations and reduce exam malpractice. With NIN, every candidate has a unique identity that follows them from JAMB registration through university admission and beyond.
According to the Minister, "The use of the National Identity Number for JAMB registration is now a government policy. JAMB is working with NIMC to ensure sustainability and eliminate multiple registrations."
What This Means for UTME Candidates
If you haven't obtained your NIN and you plan to write UTME, get it now. Don't wait until JAMB registration opens - that's when NIMC offices become crowded with other students rushing to get their NIN.
Need help getting your NIN? Read this guide: How to Apply for NIN - Guidelines and Requirements
Expansion of JAMB Test Centers
The government has built and equipped over 650 JAMB examination centers, with plans to add more:
- 800 additional centers in 2021
- 1,000 centers in 2022
- 1,200 centers in 2023
This expansion means more testing locations closer to candidates, reducing travel requirements on exam day.
Start Your JAMB Preparation
While sorting out your NIN, begin your UTME preparation. Starting early gives you a significant advantage.
Use JAMB CBT practice software to prepare effectively:
- Practice on the Ulearngo CBT platform for web-based practice
- Download the Ulearngo Android app for mobile practice
- Work through thousands of JAMB past questions with detailed explanations
- Use timed practice modes to build speed
- Get help from Lexi, the AI study assistant, when stuck on difficult topics
How the NIN Requirement Developed
The NIN requirement wasn't implemented all at once:
2020: Initial Announcement
JAMB and NIMC first partnered to make NIN compulsory. Due to technical challenges and the large number of candidates needing NIN, they suspended the requirement for 2020 to give students more time.
2021: Implementation
After resolving technical issues and licensing 203 new NIMC agents, the requirement returned. The goal was to capture all 2+ million UTME candidates with their NIN.
Current Status
The system has been tested and improved. NIN is now mandatory for all UTME candidates.
Tips for Getting Your NIN
- Apply early: Don't wait for the rush before JAMB registration
- Bring required documents: Birth certificate, school ID, passport photos
- Verify your information: Confirm your name spelling and date of birth are accurate
- For candidates under 16: You'll need your parent's or guardian's NIN
- Keep it safe: Store your NIN securely - you'll need it for more than just JAMB
Action Steps
- Get your NIN if you don't have it yet
- Start UTME preparation with JAMB CBT practice software
- Organize your registration documents
- Stay informed about JAMB announcements
The NIN requirement exists to protect candidates and ensure fair examination processes. While it adds an extra step to registration, it benefits everyone by reducing malpractice and maintaining exam integrity.
Get your NIN, start your JAMB CBT practice, and prepare properly for your UTME.
