If you’re aiming for Software Engineering in 2026, let’s slow things down a bit and clear the confusion properly — no rushing, no guesswork, no “my friend said so” 😌.
This is one course where one wrong subject choice in JAMB can quietly ruin everything, even if you score high.
So before we list subjects, let’s understand why JAMB and universities insist on certain combinations for Software Engineering.
Why Software Engineering Has Strict JAMB Requirements
Software Engineering isn’t just about coding vibes and laptops. At the university level, it’s a serious blend of logic, mathematics, problem-solving, and science.
From Year 1, students deal with:
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Algorithms and data structures
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Discrete mathematics
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Computer architecture
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Programming logic
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Systems design
Because of this, JAMB and Nigerian universities want candidates who already have:
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Strong numerical thinking
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Basic scientific reasoning
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The ability to handle abstract problem-solving
That’s why some subjects are non-negotiable, while others are flexible.
Understanding Core vs Optional Subjects (Very Important)
For JAMB 2026:
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4 subjects are required
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Use of English is compulsory for everyone
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Software Engineering has core subjects you must take
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Then there are optional subjects, where JAMB allows you to choose one from a list
If you miss a core subject, you’re automatically disqualified.
If you choose a wrong optional subject, some universities may still reject you.
Now let’s break it down properly 👇
✅ Core JAMB Subjects for Software Engineering (Mandatory)
These subjects are fixed. No swapping. No alternatives.
1. Use of English (Compulsory)
This is compulsory for all courses in JAMB, including Software Engineering.
No English = no admission. Simple.
2. Mathematics
This is the most important subject for Software Engineering.
Why?
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Coding is logic
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Logic is mathematics
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Algorithms = applied mathematics
Without Mathematics in JAMB, Software Engineering is impossible.
👉 Mathematics is 100% compulsory.
🔄 Optional Subjects (You Choose One or Two Based on JAMB Rules)
After English and Mathematics, JAMB allows flexibility.
Universities usually want candidates with a science background, so JAMB provides options.
Accepted Optional Subjects Include:
✔ Physics
This is the most preferred optional subject.
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Helps with computer hardware
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Builds analytical thinking
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Many universities quietly favor candidates with Physics
✔ Chemistry
Accepted by many universities, especially when paired with Physics.
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Shows science background
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Often used when Physics is already chosen
✔ Biology
Yes, Biology is allowed.
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Especially accepted by newer universities
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Useful for interdisciplinary tech fields (AI, health tech, bioinformatics)
🧠 So… What Is the Correct JAMB Subject Combination?
Now that you understand the logic, here’s how it comes together 👇
Standard & Safest JAMB Subject Combination for Software Engineering (2026)
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Use of English
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Mathematics
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Physics
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Chemistry
This is the most widely accepted combination across Nigerian universities.
Alternative Accepted Combination (Still Valid)
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Use of English
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Mathematics
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Physics
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Biology
Good option if Chemistry isn’t your strong point.
Another Accepted Variation
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Use of English
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Mathematics
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Chemistry
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Biology
Some universities accept this, but it’s less preferred than Physics-based combinations.
⚠️ Important Warnings for 2026 Candidates
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Do NOT replace Mathematics with anything else
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Do NOT use Economics, Geography, or Commerce
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Do NOT assume “Computer Studies” can replace Physics (it can’t)
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Always confirm with the JAMB brochure and your chosen university
Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board does not correct subject mistakes after registration closes.
Once you submit, that’s it.
Final Advice (Real Talk 💬)
If Software Engineering is your dream:
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Think logic over vibes
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Choose science-based subjects
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Pick the safest combination, not the easiest
A correct subject combination won’t guarantee admission —
but a wrong one guarantees rejection.