Errors in your JAMB profile can cause serious problems during admission processing. Many students discover after registration or while seeking admission that their name was misspelled, their date of birth was entered wrongly, or their state of origin does not match their official documents. These mistakes may look small, but they can lead to denial of admission, inability to process NYSC mobilization, or complications in future verification.
In this detailed guide, you will learn everything you need to know about correcting your name, date of birth, and state of origin in JAMB profile. This article explains why corrections are important, the step-by-step process, requirements, costs, and common mistakes to avoid.
Why Correcting Your JAMB Profile Details Is Important
Errors in your JAMB profile may look minor, but they can create big issues later. Here are reasons why correction is important:
1. Admission Processing Issues
Universities and polytechnics verify details on JAMB CAPS against the information on your documents. If there are mismatches, your admission may be delayed or canceled.
2. NYSC Mobilization
During NYSC mobilization, details such as name and date of birth must match your JAMB profile. Wrong details can make you ineligible for mobilization.
3. Certificate Validity
If your JAMB profile data does not match your WAEC/NECO or school records, employers and institutions may question the authenticity of your certificate.
4. Legal Identity Confirmation
For scholarships, visa applications, and international studies, official documents are verified. Having inconsistent records may cause rejection of your application.
Correcting your JAMB profile ensures all your documents are consistent and reliable.
What Can Be Corrected in JAMB Profile?
JAMB allows candidates to correct the following personal details:
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Name correction (first name, middle name, or surname)
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Date of birth correction
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State of origin correction
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Gender correction
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Choice of institution correction (different from personal data but also available)
In this article, we will focus on name, date of birth, and state of origin, since these are the most sensitive and common corrections.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Correct Name in JAMB Profile
A name error is one of the most common issues students face. It can be a wrong spelling, swapped surname, or completely wrong entry.
Steps to Correct Name in JAMB Profile:
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Visit JAMB Office
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Name correction can only be done at an approved JAMB office or accredited CBT center.
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Provide Evidence of Correct Name
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Go with your birth certificate, affidavit, or any official document showing the correct spelling of your name.
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Pay the Required Fee
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JAMB usually charges a correction fee for names. Payment is made online via JAMB portal or Remita.
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Fill Correction Form
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At the JAMB office, you will be asked to fill a form with your correct details.
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Biometric Verification
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Your fingerprints may be scanned again to confirm your identity.
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Approval
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Once processed, the correction will reflect in your profile and on your admission documents.
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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Correct Date of Birth in JAMB Profile
Incorrect date of birth is one of the most serious errors because it can affect NYSC eligibility. NYSC does not accept candidates above 30 years for mobilization.
Steps to Correct Date of Birth:
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Go to JAMB Office Only
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Date of birth correction cannot be done at regular CBT centers. It must be handled at JAMB headquarters or zonal offices.
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Provide Birth Certificate
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Your original birth certificate or sworn affidavit is required. Baptismal cards and school ID cards are not accepted.
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Payment of Correction Fee
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A processing fee is paid before the correction is initiated.
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Update on Portal
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JAMB officials will update your profile with the correct date of birth.
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Confirmation
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You will be given a printed slip reflecting the corrected date of birth. Always keep a copy for future use.
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⚠️ Note: JAMB allows date of birth correction only once, so ensure all your documents match before making the request.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Correct State of Origin in JAMB Profile
Some students mistakenly select the wrong state of origin during registration. This can affect eligibility for catchment area admission or state-based scholarships.
Steps to Correct State of Origin:
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Visit JAMB Office or Accredited CBT Center
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State of origin correction can be handled at both JAMB offices and CBT centers.
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Provide Proof of Correct State
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You will need a local government identification letter or certificate of origin.
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Pay Correction Fee
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A fee is charged for the correction.
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Update Records
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The official will update your JAMB profile with the correct state and local government area (LGA).
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Print Evidence
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After correction, print out your updated profile slip for records.
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Requirements for JAMB Profile Correction
When going for correction, ensure you have the following:
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JAMB registration number
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Birth certificate (for date of birth correction)
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Affidavit (for name correction if documents differ)
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Certificate of origin or LGA letter (for state of origin correction)
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Means of identification (e.g., National ID, voter’s card)
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Payment receipt of correction fee
Cost of Correcting JAMB Profile Details
The cost may vary depending on the type of correction and JAMB’s current policy. Typically:
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Name correction: ₦2,500 – ₦3,500
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Date of birth correction: ₦2,500 – ₦3,500
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State of origin correction: ₦2,500 – ₦3,500
Additional bank or Remita charges may apply. Always keep your receipt.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During JAMB Profile Correction
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Using Fake Documents – JAMB verifies all documents. Fake documents may lead to disqualification.
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Multiple Corrections – JAMB allows limited corrections. Do it once and correctly.
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Relying on Agents – Always go to an official JAMB office or CBT center.
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Not Cross-Checking Before Submission – Confirm every detail before final submission.
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Late Corrections – Correct errors early, preferably before admission process begins.
Real-Life Scenarios Where JAMB Profile Errors Caused Issues
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A student was denied NYSC mobilization because his JAMB profile date of birth showed 1990 instead of 1995.
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Another candidate lost admission because the surname in JAMB profile did not match WAEC certificate.
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Some candidates missed state scholarship opportunities because their JAMB profile reflected the wrong state of origin.
These examples show why prompt correction is necessary.
Summary Table of JAMB Profile Corrections
| Correction Type | Where to Do It | Required Documents | Cost (₦) | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Name Correction | JAMB Office/CBT Center | Birth certificate, affidavit | 2,500 – 3,500 | Allowed once |
| Date of Birth | JAMB Office Only | Birth certificate | 2,500 – 3,500 | Very strict, one-time only |
| State of Origin | JAMB Office/CBT Center | LGA certificate, ID card | 2,500 – 3,500 | Needed for catchment area and scholarships |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I correct my name in JAMB after admission?
Yes, but it must be before your final clearance at the university.
2. How many times can I correct my JAMB profile?
Corrections are limited; date of birth and name are usually allowed only once.
3. Can I do JAMB correction online at home?
No, you must visit a JAMB office or accredited CBT center.
4. What if my WAEC and JAMB names do not match?
You must correct your JAMB profile to match WAEC for admission processing.
5. How long does correction take?
It usually reflects within 24–72 hours after submission.
6. Is affidavit enough for correction?
Affidavit works with supporting documents, not alone.
7. Can I change my date of birth after NYSC mobilization?
No, it must be corrected before mobilization begins.
8. Does correction fee cover multiple changes?
No, each correction type has its own fee.
9. Can I change state of origin after getting admission?
Yes, but it must be updated before final school clearance.
10. What happens if I don’t correct errors?
You may face admission rejection, NYSC disqualification, or document mismatch issues later.
Conclusion
Correcting errors in your JAMB profile is not just about convenience — it is a requirement for smooth academic and career progression. Wrong details in your profile can cost you admission, scholarships, or even NYSC participation.
If you have noticed mistakes in your name, date of birth, or state of origin, do not delay. Visit the nearest JAMB office or accredited CBT center with the right documents and payment to correct your profile.
By taking this step early, you secure your admission process, future mobilization, and long-term opportunities.