Not every student has internet access when JAMB releases results. To make it easier, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) introduced a convenient SMS method. With just your phone and a small airtime balance, you can quickly retrieve your UTME result.
This article explains step-by-step how to check your JAMB 2025 result via SMS, common SMS responses you may receive, tips to avoid mistakes, and what to do after checking your result.
Contents
- Why Use the SMS Method?
- Step-by-Step Guide to Checking Your JAMB Result via SMS
- Step 1: Compose a New Text Message
- Step 2: Send the Message
- Step 3: Ensure Sufficient Airtime
- Step 4: Receive Your Result
- Possible SMS Responses from JAMB
- Important Notes for Candidates
- Alternative: Checking Your JAMB Result Online
- What to Do After Checking Your JAMB Result
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why Use the SMS Method?
While many students use the JAMB portal online, the SMS option is especially helpful if:
- You don’t have internet access.
- The JAMB website is down due to heavy traffic.
- You want a quick result notification before printing the slip online.
It’s simple, affordable, and works on any phone that can send text messages.
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking Your JAMB Result via SMS
Follow these instructions carefully to ensure success:
Step 1: Compose a New Text Message
- Open the messaging app on your phone.
- Type: UTMERESULT (make sure it’s in capital letters).
Step 2: Send the Message
- Send the text to 55019 or 66019.
- Very important: Use the same phone number you registered with JAMB. The system will reject messages from other numbers.
Step 3: Ensure Sufficient Airtime
- Before sending, confirm you have at least ₦50 airtime.
- This fee covers the SMS charge. If you don’t have airtime, the message won’t go through.
Step 4: Receive Your Result
- Within a few minutes, JAMB will reply with your result or a status update.
- The SMS will show your subject scores and total score, or inform you of any issue with your registration.
Possible SMS Responses from JAMB
When you use the SMS method, JAMB may send one of the following replies:
- Successful Result Retrieval
- Example: “Dear [Candidate’s Name], your result is as follows…” followed by subject scores.
- Unregistered Phone Number
- “This phone number was not used for registration.”
- This happens if you try using a number different from the one used during JAMB registration.
- Result Withheld
- “Result Withheld.”
- Usually due to suspected malpractice or ongoing investigations.
- Clarification Needed
- “Result withheld pending the upload of clarifications/document required from you.”
- You’ll need to visit JAMB’s official channels to resolve this.
- Candidate Absent
- “CANDIDATE ABSENT.”
- Means you were marked absent for the exam.
- Registration Number Cancelled
- “Registration number cancelled.”
- This is rare and often due to serious irregularities.
- Unauthorized Access
- “Invalid Entrance into the Exam Hall.”
- Suggests malpractice or unauthorized entry.
Each of these responses helps you understand your exam status and the next steps to take.
Important Notes for Candidates
- Use Registered Phone Number Only
Always send the SMS using the phone number linked to your JAMB profile. - Avoid Fraudsters
JAMB does not authorize anyone to upgrade results. Be careful of scams promising “result upgrades” in exchange for money. - Check Early but Be Patient
Sometimes results are uploaded gradually. If your result is not available, wait a day or two and try again. - Official Channels Only
If you face issues, visit JAMB’s official website or the nearest JAMB office.
Alternative: Checking Your JAMB Result Online
If you have internet access, you can also check and print your result online. Here’s how:
- Visit the official JAMB eFacility portal: 👉 https://efacility.jamb.gov.ng/CheckUTMEResults
- Log in with your email and password.
- Click on Print Result Slip.
- Pay the ₦2,000 fee to access your original result slip.
The online slip is especially important for admission screening and school documentation.
What to Do After Checking Your JAMB Result
Once you have your score, the next steps are crucial:
- Compare with Cut-Off Marks
- Each institution has a specific cut-off mark for different courses. Confirm if you qualify.
- Get Ready for Post-UTME
- Most schools conduct post-UTME or screening exercises. Stay alert for registration dates.
- Consider Change of Course or Institution
- If your score is lower than your chosen course requirement, you can apply for a Change of Course or Institution through JAMB.
- Keep Your Documents Safe
- Save your SMS result and also print the online slip once available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use any SIM card to check my result via SMS?
No. You must use the phone number you registered with JAMB.
2. How much does it cost to check the result via SMS?
Each SMS costs ₦50. Ensure you have sufficient airtime.
3. What if I don’t get a reply from JAMB after sending the SMS?
Wait a few hours and try again. If the issue continues, use the online method or visit a JAMB office.
4. Do I need a scratch card?
No. JAMB no longer uses scratch cards for result checking.
5. Can I still check online if I already used SMS?
Yes. The SMS method gives you quick access, while the online portal allows you to print the official slip.
The SMS method makes it easy to check your JAMB 2025 UTME result even without internet access. By following the simple steps and using the correct phone number, you can quickly get your result.
Remember to avoid fraudsters, keep copies of your result, and start preparing for the next stage of your academic journey. Whether your score is high or lower than expected, there are always opportunities ahead—through post-UTME, change of course, or alternative institutions.
Good luck with your admission journey!
