If you made a wrong choice of institution during JAMB registration, changed your mind about your preferred school, or need to make another institution your first choice for admission, you may be able to use the JAMB Change of Institution service.
The process is officially known as Change of Course/Institution, and it is handled through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). It allows eligible candidates to update the institution they selected during their UTME or Direct Entry registration.
This guide explains the JAMB Change of Institution requirements, cost, application process, important things to check before applying, and common mistakes candidates should avoid.
Important: JAMB policies, fees, deadlines, and available institutions can change. Always confirm the current information on the official JAMB portal before making payment or submitting an application. JAMB currently lists Correction of Data for Institution/Course at ₦2,500, with a separate CBT service charge where applicable.
What Is JAMB Change of Institution?
JAMB Change of Institution is a correction service that allows a candidate to change the institution selected during JAMB registration.
For example, imagine that you selected University A as your first choice but later discovered that your score, course requirements, location, or admission prospects may be more suitable at University B. If the service is available for your examination year and situation, you can apply to change your institution through JAMB rather than registering for another UTME.
The service is different from simply changing your mind about where you want to study. Your JAMB record must be officially updated so that the new institution can properly process your admission through JAMB’s admission system.
JAMB’s official instructions state that candidates can select the Change of Course/Institution service under Correction of Data and then submit their preferred institution and course choices after payment.
Why Do Candidates Change Their JAMB Institution?
There are several reasons a candidate may want to change their institution.
One common reason is choosing the wrong school during registration. With thousands of candidates completing UTME registration within a limited period, mistakes can happen.
Another reason is a change in admission strategy. A candidate may initially select a highly competitive university but later decide to consider another institution where their UTME score and O’level qualifications may give them a more realistic opportunity.
Candidates may also discover that their chosen institution does not offer their preferred course, has different subject requirements, or has a specific admission policy that does not suit them.
Other possible reasons include:
- Changing to a school that offers the desired course.
- Choosing an institution with a more suitable admission requirement.
- Moving a preferred school to first choice where necessary.
- Correcting an error made during JAMB registration.
- Responding to changes in admission opportunities.
- Selecting an institution that better matches the candidate’s academic qualifications.
However, changing institution does not automatically guarantee admission. The new institution must still consider the candidate based on its admission requirements, available spaces, screening process, course requirements, and other applicable conditions.
JAMB Change of Institution Requirements
Before starting the application, make sure you have the information needed to complete the process correctly.
1. Your JAMB Registration Number
Your JAMB registration number is important because the Change of Institution application is connected to your existing JAMB record.
Do not create another UTME registration simply because you want to change your institution. JAMB advises candidates who make registration errors to seek correction rather than submit duplicate applications.
2. Your JAMB Profile
You need access to your JAMB profile to use the relevant post-registration service.
Keep your login details and other JAMB security information private. JAMB has warned candidates against allowing other people to transact on their profiles because unauthorized access can lead to unwanted changes.
3. Your Examination Year
You may be required to provide the year in which you took the examination when completing the Change of Course/Institution process.
JAMB’s official procedure specifically instructs candidates to provide the examination year and JAMB registration number after payment.
4. Your Preferred Institution and Course
Think carefully before submitting your new choice.
Check that the institution offers your desired course and that you meet the relevant admission requirements. You should also check whether the institution accepts candidates for the admission year in question.
Changing to a school without checking its requirements can create another problem instead of solving the first one.
5. Relevant O’level Requirements
Your WAEC, NECO, NABTEB or other acceptable O’level qualifications may be important when determining whether you qualify for your chosen course.
JAMB’s 2026 published entry requirements state that degree candidates generally need at least five credit passes, including English and other relevant subjects, obtained in not more than two sittings, while specific programmes may have additional requirements.
Always check the specific course and institution because requirements can vary.
How Much Is JAMB Change of Institution?
JAMB currently lists ₦2,500 as the fee for Correction of Data for Institution/Course. The Board also lists a CBT service charge of ₦100 for Correction of Data services.
However, candidates should not assume that the total amount they will pay in every situation will remain unchanged. Fees and service arrangements can be reviewed by JAMB.
Before making payment, check the amount displayed on the official JAMB platform or at an approved centre.
Avoid sending money to individuals who claim they can change your institution unofficially.
How to Apply for JAMB Change of Institution
The application process is straightforward when you follow the official procedure carefully.
Step 1: Visit the JAMB Portal
Start by accessing the official JAMB website and entering the appropriate e-Facility or post-registration service.
Use the official JAMB platform rather than an unknown website or social media link.
Step 2: Log Into Your JAMB Profile
Sign in with your JAMB account details.
If you are a new user of the relevant portal, JAMB’s instructions provide for profile creation using information such as your email address, name, phone number, state and local government area. Existing users can log in with their credentials.
Step 3: Select Correction of Data
After logging in, look for the Correction of Data option.
Select it to reveal the available correction services.
Step 4: Select Change of Course/Institution
Choose Course/Institution from the available Correction of Data options.
This is the service used when you want to change your JAMB institution or course.
Step 5: Generate Your Transaction ID
A transaction ID is generated for the service.
Keep this information because it can be useful when tracking or referring to your transaction.
JAMB’s official instructions state that the transaction ID is displayed on the confirmation page and sent to the candidate’s registered email address.
Step 6: Make Payment
Select the available payment gateway and complete the payment process.
After payment, check your payment status before continuing.
Do not assume that a failed or interrupted transaction has been completed simply because money was deducted. Confirm the transaction status through the appropriate JAMB platform before attempting another payment.
Step 7: Enter Your Examination Details
After successful payment, you will be asked to provide your examination year and JAMB registration number.
Enter the details carefully.
An incorrect registration number can prevent you from accessing the correct candidate record.
Step 8: Select Your New Institution
The available options for preferred institutions and courses will be displayed based on what is available through the system.
Choose your new institution carefully.
Before clicking submit, confirm:
- Institution name
- Course
- Course combination where applicable
- First-choice institution
- Other available choices
- Examination year
- JAMB registration details
Step 9: Submit the Application
Once you have checked the information, submit the application.
JAMB’s official procedure states that the Board will process the request and, if approved, update the candidate’s details as requested.
Do not repeatedly submit applications because you are waiting for an update.
Can I Change My Institution More Than Once?
Candidates should not assume that they can make unlimited changes.
The availability of a change and the conditions attached to it may depend on the examination year, JAMB’s current policy, and the status of the service.
If you have already made a change and believe another correction is necessary, check the current JAMB portal or contact JAMB through its official support channels before paying for another application.
It is also important not to create multiple UTME registrations to solve a correction problem. JAMB specifically advises candidates who make errors during registration to seek correction rather than obtain another application.
Does JAMB Change of Institution Guarantee Admission?
No.
Changing your institution does not mean the new school must give you admission.
The change only updates your JAMB choice. Admission remains dependent on the requirements and admission process of the institution.
For example, a candidate may change to a university but still fail to gain admission if the candidate does not meet the required UTME score, O’level subjects, course requirements, screening conditions, or other admission criteria.
JAMB’s Central Admissions Processing System, commonly known as CAPS, is used to support and automate the admission process into tertiary institutions.
Therefore, after changing your institution, continue monitoring your JAMB profile and follow the admission instructions of the new institution.
What Should I Check Before Changing My Institution?
Do not change your institution simply because someone tells you that a particular school is giving admission.
Take a few minutes to verify the important details.
Check the Institution’s Admission Requirements
Find out whether you meet the institution’s requirements for your intended course.
Check Your UTME Score
Compare your score with the institution’s published admission expectations and current requirements.
JAMB’s 2026 website reports minimum tolerable admission scores approved at the 2026 policy meeting as 150 for universities and 100 for polytechnics, monotechnics, colleges of education, colleges of agriculture and innovation enterprise institutions. These are minimum tolerable scores, not a guarantee that every course or institution will admit candidates at those scores.
Check the Course Requirements
Some courses have specific O’level and UTME subject requirements.
Do not select a course simply because it appears available on the portal.
Check the Institution’s Screening Process
Some institutions may require post-UTME or other screening procedures.
After changing your institution, visit the institution’s official website for its current admission information.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing a School Without Checking Requirements
This is one of the biggest mistakes candidates make.
Before changing your institution, confirm that your subjects and qualifications are acceptable for your preferred course.
Using an Unofficial Website
Scammers often create pages that look similar to official websites.
Always verify that you are using the official JAMB platform before entering personal information or making payment.
Giving Someone Your JAMB Login Details
Your account contains important information about your admission record.
JAMB has specifically cautioned candidates about allowing other people, including friends, tutors, parents or other third parties, to transact on their profiles.
Paying Without Checking the Official Fee
The amount charged for JAMB services can change.
Check the official JAMB payment information before paying.
Selecting the Wrong Institution Again
Take your time before submitting.
A simple spelling or selection mistake can create unnecessary complications.
Assuming Change of Institution Means Automatic Admission
It does not.
You still need to satisfy the new institution’s admission requirements and complete any required screening process.
What Happens After JAMB Change of Institution?
After submitting your application, JAMB processes the request.
If approved, your JAMB record is updated with the new institution or course.
The next step is to monitor your admission status and follow instructions from your new institution.
Candidates should also understand the importance of JAMB CAPS. CAPS is designed to manage the admission process and provide candidates with information about admission offers and choices.
Do not stop checking your JAMB profile after completing the change.
How Long Does JAMB Change of Institution Take?
The processing time can vary.
Candidates should not rely on a fixed number of hours or days unless JAMB has specifically announced a processing timeline for the relevant period.
If your details do not update immediately, check your payment status and application information first. If there is still a problem, use JAMB’s official support channels or visit an approved centre where appropriate.
Keep your transaction information and payment evidence until the process is completely resolved.
Can I Change Institution After JAMB Admission Has Started?
The answer depends on the circumstances and the current JAMB admission cycle.
Candidates should not assume that the Change of Institution service remains available indefinitely.
JAMB states that the Change of Course/Institution service has a time limitation.
If you are already involved in an admission process, check the latest instructions from JAMB and the institution before making a change.
Frequently Asked Questions About JAMB Change of Institution
Is JAMB Change of Institution still available?
Availability depends on the relevant examination year and JAMB’s current schedule. Candidates should check the official JAMB portal to confirm whether the service is currently open.
How much is JAMB Change of Institution?
JAMB currently lists ₦2,500 for Correction of Data for Institution/Course, plus the applicable CBT service charge.
Can I change my JAMB institution online?
Yes. JAMB provides an online process through its post-registration services. Candidates should use the official JAMB platform and follow the instructions displayed for their application.
Will changing my institution give me admission?
No. It only changes your JAMB choice. Admission depends on the institution’s requirements, available spaces, course conditions and other applicable admission procedures.
Can I change both course and institution?
The JAMB service is officially described as Change of Course/Institution, so eligible candidates may be able to change either or both, depending on the options available on the portal.
Do I need to write JAMB again?
Generally, you should not register for another UTME simply because you want to correct your institution choice. JAMB advises candidates with registration errors to seek correction instead of submitting duplicate applications.
Can I use a cybercafé for JAMB Change of Institution?
Be careful when choosing where to process the application. JAMB emphasizes the use of approved centres for its registration activities and warns candidates about unauthorized handling of their profiles.
What if my preferred institution is not showing?
The options displayed through the JAMB system depend on availability and applicable conditions. If your preferred institution does not appear, do not randomly select another school. Confirm the reason and check the current JAMB instructions.