A method and apparatus for setting profiles are provided. The profile setting method Includes receiving, from a first terminal, a profile transfer request message that requests transfer of a first profile or portion thereof from a first secure element to a second secure element; sending, to the first terminal, a request message requesting the first profile or portion thereof; receiving, from the first terminal, the first profile or portion thereof; configuring a second profile using the received first profile or portion thereof; and sending, to a second terminal, the configured second profile.