If you’re eyeing Metallurgical Engineering in 2026, you’re probably already thinking ahead — which is good. This course sits deep in the engineering/science space, and JAMB does not joke with subject combinations here. One wrong subject and your admission chances can disappear quietly, even with a strong UTME score.
So instead of rushing to list subjects, let’s slow down and break this down properly — the way JAMB actually expects candidates to understand it.
What Metallurgical Engineering Is Really About (and Why Subjects Matter)
Metallurgical Engineering focuses on:
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Metals and alloys
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Extraction of metals from ores
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Heat treatment and material behavior
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Industrial and manufacturing applications
Because of this, universities expect candidates to already be strong in core physical sciences before admission. Your JAMB subjects are meant to prove that foundation.
This is why JAMB structures the requirements around non-negotiable core subjects, then allows some flexibility with optional supporting subjects.
How JAMB Subject Combinations Work (Quick Reality Check)
For UTME, JAMB requires:
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Exactly 4 subjects
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Use of English is compulsory
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The remaining 3 subjects must align with your course
For engineering courses like Metallurgical Engineering, JAMB usually defines:
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Core subjects (must be chosen)
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Optional subjects (you choose one or more, depending on the rule)
You don’t get to freestyle this part.
Core JAMB Subjects for Metallurgical Engineering (Non-Negotiable)
These subjects are mandatory across virtually all Nigerian universities offering Metallurgical Engineering:
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Use of English
This is compulsory for every JAMB candidate, regardless of course. -
Mathematics
Metallurgical Engineering is calculation-heavy. From thermodynamics to material strength, math is unavoidable. -
Physics
Physics connects directly to material behavior, energy, heat, and mechanical properties — all core to metallurgy.
These three subjects form the core foundation. You cannot replace or skip any of them.
The Flexible Part: Optional JAMB Subjects (Where Candidates Choose)
After the three core subjects above, JAMB allows one more science subject, and this is where candidates get options.
Acceptable Optional Subjects for Metallurgical Engineering:
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Chemistry (most preferred and widely accepted)
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Further Mathematics (accepted by some universities)
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Biology (accepted by a limited number of institutions)
How This Works in Practice
You only need one of the optional subjects to complete your four JAMB subjects.
However:
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Chemistry is the safest choice
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Further Mathematics is useful but not universally preferred
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Biology should only be chosen if you’ve confirmed your target school accepts it
Recommended JAMB Subject Combination for Metallurgical Engineering (2026)
The most widely accepted and safest combination is:
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Use of English
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Mathematics
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Physics
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Chemistry
This combination aligns with:
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JAMB brochure expectations
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Federal and state universities
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Most engineering faculties in Nigeria
If you’re unsure which university you’ll end up applying to, this is the combination that gives you the widest safety net.
Alternative (But Riskier) Combinations
Depending on the institution, some candidates may be allowed to use:
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Use of English
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Mathematics
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Physics
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Further Mathematics
Or in fewer cases:
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Use of English
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Mathematics
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Physics
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Biology
These are not universally accepted, so they should only be used if you’ve checked your preferred university’s requirements in the JAMB brochure.
Common Mistakes Candidates Make Every Year
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Assuming all engineering courses accept the same subjects
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Dropping Chemistry without confirming acceptance
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Choosing Biology just because it was easier in secondary school
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Forgetting that Physics is compulsory for engineering
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Relying on advice from friends instead of the official brochure
Once registration closes, Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board does not allow subject corrections.
Final Advice for 2026 Candidates
If Metallurgical Engineering is your goal:
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Lock in the core subjects first
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Choose Chemistry unless you have a strong reason not to
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Always confirm your university’s requirements before registering
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Don’t gamble with subject combinations — JAMB doesn’t reward experiments