Choosing the right JAMB subject combination is one of those steps students underestimate until it’s too late. You can score high, feel confident, and still lose admission simply because one subject was wrong or missing.
If you’re planning to study Agricultural Extension in 2026, this guide breaks everything down calmly, clearly, and properly—no rushing to the subject list without understanding why each subject matters.
Let’s walk through it step by step.
What Is Agricultural Extension Really About?
Agricultural Extension is not just “farming.” It’s the bridge between agricultural research and real farmers. Students in this course learn how to:
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Educate farmers on modern farming techniques
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Improve crop and livestock productivity
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Communicate agricultural innovations to rural communities
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Support food security and rural development
Because of this mix of science, communication, and agriculture, JAMB and Nigerian universities expect candidates to have a solid science foundation—especially in biology-related subjects.
How JAMB Subject Combination Works
According to Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, every UTME candidate must register four subjects:
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One compulsory subject (Use of English)
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Three other subjects related to the chosen course
For Agricultural Extension, there are core subjects that must be present, and optional subjects where candidates or institutions can choose from a list.
This flexibility is where many students get confused—so let’s clear it up properly.
Core JAMB Subjects for Agricultural Extension (Must Be Included)
These subjects form the foundation of the course and are non-negotiable in almost all institutions.
1. Use of English (Compulsory)
This is mandatory for all JAMB candidates, regardless of course. No shortcuts here.
2. Biology (Core Subject)
Biology is the backbone of Agricultural Extension. It covers:
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Plant growth and development
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Animal physiology
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Ecology and environment
Without Biology, most universities will not even consider your application for this course.
Optional but Accepted Subjects (You Choose the Remaining Ones)
After English and Biology, you still need two more subjects to complete your four. JAMB allows flexibility here, but only within approved options.
Commonly Accepted Optional Subjects
You can choose any two from the list below, depending on your strength and the university’s preference:
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Chemistry
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Agricultural Science
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Economics
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Geography
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Physics
Recommended JAMB Subject Combinations (Best Picks)
While JAMB allows options, some combinations are safer and more widely accepted than others.
Most Recommended Combination
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Use of English
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Biology
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Agricultural Science
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Chemistry
This combination aligns perfectly with the course content and is accepted by almost all universities offering Agricultural Extension.
Alternative Acceptable Combinations
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Use of English
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Biology
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Agricultural Science
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Economics
OR
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Use of English
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Geography
These are especially useful if:
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You are stronger in social science subjects
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The institution emphasizes rural development and agricultural economics
Why Subject Choice Still Matters Even When Options Exist
Some candidates assume that because subjects are “optional,” any combination will work. That’s risky thinking.
Here’s why:
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Some universities prefer Chemistry over Economics
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Others prioritize Agricultural Science strongly
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Competitive schools may reject weaker combinations even if JAMB allows them
Always cross-check the specific university requirements in the JAMB brochure before final submission.
Common Mistakes Candidates Make
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Replacing Biology with Agricultural Science (both are not the same)
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Choosing three social science subjects with only English
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Ignoring Chemistry completely when applying to science-based faculties
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Assuming polytechnic requirements are the same as universities
These mistakes are common—and avoidable.
Final JAMB Subject Combination Summary for Agricultural Extension (2026)
Compulsory Subjects:
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Use of English
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Biology
Choose Any Two of the Following:
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Agricultural Science
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Chemistry
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Economics
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Geography
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Physics
That gives you your required four subjects.
Final Advice
Agricultural Extension is a practical, people-focused science course. Your subject combination should reflect both scientific understanding and real-world agricultural application.
If you’re ever unsure, don’t guess—verify. One wrong subject can undo years of effort.