So you want to study Biology in 2026?
Nice choice — Biology is one of those courses that quietly opens doors to medicine, research, biotech, education, and even environmental careers.
But before you start dreaming of lab coats and microscopes, let’s slow down a bit.
Your JAMB subject combination matters more than you think. One wrong subject and JAMB won’t even give your application a second look. Painful, but true.
This guide breaks everything down clearly — no rushing, no confusing jargon, just straight talk.
First Things First: What Biology Really Is (In JAMB’s Eyes)
In higher institutions, Biology isn’t just “studying living things.”
JAMB classifies it as a pure science course, which means:
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It leans heavily on scientific reasoning
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Universities expect candidates to have a strong science background
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Certain subjects are non-negotiable
That’s why JAMB doesn’t joke with the subject requirements for this course.
And remember:
Every JAMB candidate must register FOUR (4) subjects.
One is compulsory for everyone. The other three must align with your course.
The One Subject You Can’t Escape
Let’s get this out of the way 👇
✅ Compulsory for All Courses
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Use of English
No matter your course, no matter your school — this one is fixed.
So we won’t argue about it. It’s already locked in.
Core Subjects for Biology (These Are Non-Negotiable)
Now we’re getting serious.
If you’re applying for Biology, these subjects are considered the core — meaning most universities expect them, and JAMB aligns with this expectation.
🔬 Core JAMB Subjects for Biology
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Use of English
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Biology
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Chemistry
At this point, you’ve selected three subjects.
Why these?
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Biology is obvious — it’s the course itself
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Chemistry supports genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, and lab work
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Universities assume you already understand basic chemical processes in living organisms
So far, so good.
But JAMB needs four subjects, not three.
That’s where the flexibility comes in 👇
Optional Subjects (This Is Where You Choose Wisely)
For the fourth subject, JAMB gives candidates options — but not random ones.
You’re expected to pick ONE from the list below, depending on:
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The university you’re targeting
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Your academic strength
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Long-term career plans
🧠 Accepted Optional Subjects for Biology
You can choose ONE of the following:
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Physics ✅ (most preferred)
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Mathematics
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Agricultural Science
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Geography
Yes — only one of them, not all.
Why Physics Is the Popular Choice
Most universities prefer Physics because:
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It supports lab instruments and measurements
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It aligns with science-based faculties
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It keeps your options open if you later switch courses
That’s why many candidates go with Physics — it’s the safest bet.
Final JAMB Subject Combination for Biology (2026)
After all that explanation, here’s the clean summary 👇
✅ Official JAMB Combination for Biology
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Use of English (Compulsory)
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Biology (Core)
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Chemistry (Core)
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ONE of the following (Optional):
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Physics
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Mathematics
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Agricultural Science
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Geography
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That’s it. Four subjects. Balanced. JAMB-approved.
Common Mistakes Biology Candidates Make (Don’t Be That Person)
Let’s be honest — people mess this up every year.
Avoid these mistakes:
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❌ Choosing Economics or Government
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❌ Replacing Chemistry with CRS or Literature
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❌ Assuming “any science subject” will work
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❌ Not checking university-specific requirements
JAMB won’t correct it for you later. Once registration closes, that’s it.
Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board strictly evaluates subject combinations before institutions even see your score.
Smart Tip 💡
If you’re not 100% sure yet:
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Pick Physics as your optional subject
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It keeps you eligible for more science courses, just in case
Flexibility is underrated.
Final Words
Choosing the right JAMB subject combination for Biology in 2026 isn’t about guessing — it’s about understanding how JAMB and universities think.
Get the subjects right, and you’ve already won half the battle.