Choosing the right JAMB subjects is one of the most important steps in securing admission into your dream course in Nigeria. For the 2025/2026 academic session, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released an updated list of approved subjects and their correct combinations for both Science and Arts courses. This guide provides you with the complete list, ensuring you make the right choice and avoid costly mistakes during registration.
1. List of Approved JAMB UTME Subjects
Every candidate must register for four (4) subjects—Use of English is compulsory, accompanied by any three subjects relevant to their intended course. Here are the approved subjects:
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Use of English
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Agricultural Science
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Arabic
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Art (Fine Art)
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Christian Religious Knowledge
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Commerce
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Computer Studies
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Economics
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French
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Geography
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Government
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Hausa
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History
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Home Economics
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Igbo
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Islamic Studies
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Literature in English
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Mathematics
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Music
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Physical and Health Education
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Physics
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Principles of Accounts
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Yoruba
2. Subject Combinations for Science-Based Courses
To be eligible for science, engineering, or medical-related programs, you must choose course-specific subject combinations. Here are several key examples:
| Course | Subject Combination |
|---|---|
| Medicine & Surgery | Use of English, Biology, Physics, Chemistry |
| Computer Science | Use of English, Mathematics, Physics, plus one of Biology/Chemistry/Agric Sci/Economics/Geography |
| Engineering (Civil/Mechanical/etc.) | Use of English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry |
| Pharmacy / Nursing / Biochemistry | Use of English, Biology, Physics, Chemistry |
| Geology / Biological Sciences | Use of English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics |
| Mathematics | Use of English, Mathematics, and any two of Physics, Chemistry, Economics, Biology, Agricultural Science |
| Food Science & Technology | Use of English, Chemistry, (Mathematics or Physics), Agriculture Science |
| Surveying & Geoinformatics | Use of English, Physics, Mathematics, plus any one of Chemistry, Geography, Art, Biology, Economics |
3. Subject Combinations for Arts & Social Sciences Courses
Here’s a quick guide for arts and social science-related programs:
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Law: Use of English, Literature in English, Government or History, plus any other Arts subject
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Mass Communication: Use of English, any three subjects from Arts or Social Sciences
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Economics / Business Admin / Accounting / Public Admin: Use of English, Mathematics (or Economics/Government), Economics (if applicable), plus any other relevant Arts or Social Science subject
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Political Science / Sociology / Psychology / Philosophy: Use of English, Government or History (depending on course), plus additional Social Science or Arts subjects
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Fine/Theatre/Linguistics: Use of English + core subject (Fine Art, Literature, etc.) + two other Arts or Social Science subjects.
4. Need-to-Know for Hybrid Streams (Advanced Courses)
Some advanced educational systems like Junior Colleges (JCs) offer hybrid streams—a mix of sciences and arts subjects (e.g., PCME: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Economics). It’s essential to know the specific combinations allowed:
“Hybrid stream is just 2 sciences and 2 arts subjects. Examples include CLEM and PMEG.”
“Hybrid combinations are subject combis with 2 arts subjects and 2 sci subjects.”
These hybrids are usually permitted if you enter through the appropriate stream (arts or science).
5. YouTube Video Guide
Conclusion
Selecting the right JAMB subject combination is critical for UTME eligibility. Whether you're into medicine, engineering, social sciences, or arts, following the approved subject combinations ensures you remain eligible and competitive.
