JAMB Subject Combination for Biotechnology in 2026

If you’re eyeing Biotechnology in 2026, let’s slow things down and do this properly — no rush, no guesswork, no “my friend said so” 😌.

Biotechnology is one of those courses where subject combination matters a LOT. You can score high in JAMB and still get blocked if your subjects don’t align. So before we list anything, let’s break why certain subjects are required and how JAMB and universities think.

Arewacampus Contents

What Biotechnology Is Really About (Why Subjects Matter)

Biotechnology sits at the intersection of:

Biology (living organisms, cells, genetics)
Chemistry (biochemical reactions, lab processes)
Technology & applied science (using science to solve real-life problems)

You’ll deal with things like:

DNA manipulation
Microorganisms
Enzyme reactions
Lab-based research

So JAMB doesn’t just randomly pick subjects — they choose what proves you can survive the course academically.

That’s why some subjects are non-negotiable (core), while others are optional but strategic.

How JAMB Subject Combination Works (Quick Reality Check)

For JAMB UTME:

You must register 4 subjects
Use of English is compulsory for everyone
The remaining 3 subjects must match your course
Some courses (like Biotechnology) allow options — you choose one from a list

This flexibility is where many candidates mess up 😬.

Core Subjects for Biotechnology (Non-Negotiable)

These subjects are mandatory for Biotechnology in 2026. No shortcuts here.

1. Use of English (Compulsory)

This is automatic. You don’t debate it. JAMB includes it for all courses.

2. Biology

Biotechnology without Biology is like coding without a computer.
Biology proves you understand:

Cells
Genetics
Microorganisms
Living systems

👉 Biology is a core subject. No Biology = no Biotechnology.

3. Chemistry

Biotechnology is deeply rooted in biochemistry.
Chemistry prepares you for:

Chemical reactions in living systems
Lab experiments
Drug and enzyme processes

👉 Chemistry is also a core subject.

So at this point, we already have three fixed subjects:

Use of English
Biology
Chemistry

Now comes the choice part 👇

Optional Subject (You Must Choose ONE)

This is where JAMB gives you room — but only within limits.

You are expected to choose ONE subject from the options below, depending on what you’re strongest in or what your chosen university prefers.

Option 1: Physics (Most Preferred)

Physics helps with:

Laboratory equipment understanding
Energy, waves, and instrumentation
Scientific measurements

Many universities prefer Physics for Biotechnology because it supports lab and technical skills.

Option 2: Mathematics

Mathematics is accepted by some institutions because it supports:

Data analysis
Research calculations
Scientific reasoning

However, Math is usually second choice, not first.

⚠️ Important:
You do not need to take both Physics and Mathematics.
JAMB allows only one of them to complete your four subjects.

Final JAMB Subject Combination for Biotechnology (2026)

After all the explanations, here’s the clean, correct combination 👇

✅ Core Subjects (Fixed)

Use of English
Biology
Chemistry

🔁 Optional Subject (Choose ONE)

Physics OR
Mathematics

👉 Total subjects = 4

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Replacing Chemistry with Agricultural Science ❌
Choosing Government or Economics ❌
Picking both Physics and Mathematics (wastes a slot) ❌
Assuming all universities accept the same option ❌

Always cross-check with the official brochure from
Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board and your preferred school.

Smart Tip

If you passed Physics better than Math in SSCE, choose Physics.
If Math is your strength and Physics scares you — Math can still work for some schools.

But when in doubt?
👉 Biology + Chemistry + Physics is the safest combo.