If you’re aiming for Mechanical Engineering in 2026, this is one of those courses where JAMB does not joke at all. You can score high, but if your subject combination is wrong, admission is not happening. No appeal. No “but I tried”.
So before we even list subjects, let’s slow down and understand why JAMB insists on certain subjects for Mechanical Engineering — and where the flexibility (small as it is) comes in.
Why Mechanical Engineering Has Strict Subject Requirements
Mechanical Engineering is a core engineering discipline. From your first year in school, you’ll deal with:
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Heavy calculations
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Physics-based problem solving
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Materials, forces, motion, heat, and energy
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Advanced mathematics
Because of this, Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board aligns its subject requirements with what universities expect you to survive the course, not just gain admission.
That’s why some subjects are non-negotiable, while others are optional but controlled.
Core Subjects vs Optional Subjects (This Part Matters)
In JAMB, you must register 4 subjects total.
For Mechanical Engineering:
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Some subjects are core → you must take them
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Some subjects are optional → JAMB allows you to choose one from a given list
This is where many candidates mess up:
They either drop a core subject or pick an optional subject that their chosen university does not accept.
Let’s break it down properly.
Core JAMB Subjects for Mechanical Engineering (Compulsory)
These subjects are fixed. No alternatives. No replacements.
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Use of English
This is compulsory for all JAMB candidates, regardless of course. -
Mathematics
Mechanical Engineering is math-heavy. Calculus, algebra, mechanics — all build on this. -
Physics
This is the backbone of Mechanical Engineering. Motion, forces, energy, thermodynamics — all start here.
If you are missing any of the three above, Mechanical Engineering is already off the table.
Optional JAMB Subject for Mechanical Engineering (Choose ONE)
After the core subjects, JAMB allows one more subject to complete the required four.
This is where choice comes in.
Approved Optional Subjects:
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Chemistry (most preferred)
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Further Mathematics (accepted by some institutions)
How This Works in Practice
You do not choose both.
You choose one of them to add to your core subjects.
Most candidates go with Chemistry because:
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It is accepted by almost all universities
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Many schools list it as the recommended option
Further Mathematics, while useful, is:
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Not compulsory
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Not accepted by every institution as a substitute for Chemistry
Recommended JAMB Subject Combination for Mechanical Engineering (2026)
This is the safest and most widely accepted combination:
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Use of English
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Mathematics
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Physics
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Chemistry
If you choose this, you are covered for:
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Federal universities
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State universities
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Most private universities
Alternative JAMB Subject Combination (Where Allowed)
Some institutions may accept:
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Use of English
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Mathematics
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Physics
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Further Mathematics
This is usually fine only if:
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The university explicitly allows it
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Chemistry is not listed as compulsory in their requirements
Always confirm with your chosen institution before using this option.
Common Mistakes Mechanical Engineering Aspirants Make
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Replacing Physics with Chemistry (instant disqualification)
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Using Biology instead of Chemistry or Further Mathematics
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Assuming all universities accept Further Mathematics
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Registering without checking the JAMB brochure
These mistakes are common — and they cost people admission every year.
Final Advice Before You Register
Mechanical Engineering is not flexible with subjects.
If you want peace of mind in 2026, stick with the recommended combination, unless you’ve verified otherwise.