JAMB Subject Combination for Biomedical Engineering in 2026

So you’re thinking of Biomedical Engineering in 2026?
Nice choice. You’re basically aiming for that sweet spot where engineering meets medicine — machines that save lives, tech that supports doctors, and systems that make hospitals smarter. Big brain move 🧠⚙️

But before visions of MRI machines and prosthetics start dancing in your head, there’s one gate you must pass through first: your JAMB subject combination.

And yeah… this is where many people mess up.

Let’s slow it down, break it properly, and make sure you don’t accidentally block your own admission.

Arewacampus Contents

What Biomedical Engineering Really Demands (Academically)

Biomedical Engineering is not a “manage am” course.
Universities expect you to be solid in science and math because you’ll be dealing with:

Human biology (organs, systems, tissues)
Physics (signals, electricity, mechanics)
Chemistry (materials, reactions, biomaterials)
Mathematics (models, calculations, logic)

So JAMB doesn’t joke with the subject requirements here.

That’s why there are core subjects you cannot escape, and then optional subjects where JAMB allows some flexibility.

The Core Subjects (Non-Negotiable)

These are the subjects every serious university expects, no debate:

Use of English (compulsory for all courses)
Mathematics
Physics

Let’s be clear:
If you miss Mathematics or Physics, Biomedical Engineering is already out of reach. Full stop.

These three form the foundation of the course.

The Flexible / Optional Science Subjects

This is where candidates usually get confused.

JAMB allows you to choose ONE subject from a group of sciences to complete your four subjects.

Depending on the university, you can add any one of the following:

Chemistry ✅ (most preferred)
Biology
Further Mathematics (accepted by some schools)

Why Chemistry is Strongly Advised

Most universities prefer Chemistry because Biomedical Engineering involves:

Biomaterials
Chemical reactions in the human body
Drug-device interactions

So while Biology sounds logical (because of “bio”), Chemistry is often the safer bet.

Official JAMB Subject Combination (2026)

Now let’s put everything together clearly 👇

✅ Core Subjects

Use of English
Mathematics
Physics

➕ Choose ONE of the following (Optional Science Subject)

Chemistry
OR
Biology
OR
Further Mathematics

➡️ Total subjects = 4, as required by JAMB.

Best Combination (If You Want to Be Extra Safe)

If you want to reduce risk and keep almost all universities open to you, go with:

Use of English
Mathematics
Physics
Chemistry

This combination aligns perfectly with what most Nigerian universities list in the JAMB brochure and internal requirements.

Common Mistakes Candidates Make ❌

Let’s save you from heartbreak:

❌ Replacing Physics with Biology
❌ Offering only one science subject besides Maths
❌ Assuming “any science subject” automatically works
❌ Not checking university-specific preferences

Remember: a high JAMB score cannot fix a wrong subject combination.

Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board will not adjust it for you later.

Final Advice (Real Talk)

Biomedical Engineering is competitive and technical. Universities want candidates who already show serious science strength from UTME.

So choose smart, not emotional.