If you’re planning to study Crop Science in 2026, this is one of those courses where getting your JAMB subject combination right matters just as much as your UTME score.
A lot of candidates assume Crop Science is “just agriculture” and casually pick subjects, only to realize later that their combination doesn’t meet the requirements of their chosen university. Let’s slow things down, break it properly, and make sure you don’t fall into that trap.
This guide is written to help you understand the logic behind the subjects, not just memorize them.
What Is Crop Science Really About?
Crop Science focuses on:
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Crop production and improvement
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Soil management and fertility
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Pest and disease control
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Sustainable farming practices
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Food security and agricultural innovation
So, universities are not just looking for “any science student.” They want candidates who already have a foundation in biological and chemical processes, because that’s what the course is built on from year one.
That foundation is exactly what JAMB tests through subject combinations.
Why JAMB Is Strict About Crop Science Subjects
Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board designs subject combinations to:
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Ensure you can cope academically with the course
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Reduce failure and carry-over rates in higher institutions
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Match UTME knowledge with university curriculum
That’s why Crop Science has core subjects you must take, plus optional science subjects you can choose from.
Core JAMB Subjects for Crop Science (Non-Negotiable)
These subjects are compulsory across Nigerian universities:
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Use of English
This is compulsory for every JAMB candidate, regardless of course. -
Biology
Crop Science is deeply rooted in plant biology — growth, reproduction, genetics, and disease resistance. Without Biology, you’re already at a disadvantage. -
Chemistry
Soil nutrients, fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, and plant metabolism all depend on chemistry. This is why Chemistry is a core requirement.
These three form the academic backbone of Crop Science.
The Fourth Subject: Where Many Candidates Get Confused
This is where JAMB gives you options, and you are expected to choose one based on strength and university preference.
Accepted Optional Subjects for Crop Science
You must choose one of the following:
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Agricultural Science
This is the most direct option and is highly recommended. It aligns perfectly with Crop Science and is accepted by all institutions. -
Physics
Useful for understanding farm machinery, irrigation systems, and environmental factors affecting crops. -
Mathematics
Helps with data analysis, yield calculations, research statistics, and field measurements.
Not all universities rank these options equally, but Agricultural Science is the safest choice if you have it.
Official JAMB Subject Combination for Crop Science (2026)
After all explanations, here is the correct structure:
Core Subjects (Compulsory):
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Use of English
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Biology
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Chemistry
One Optional Subject (Choose One):
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Agricultural Science
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Physics
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Mathematics
That makes a total of four subjects, as required by JAMB.
Best Subject Combination to Choose (Smart Advice)
If you want the highest acceptance compatibility across federal, state, and private universities:
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Use of English
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Agricultural Science
This combination aligns best with:
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University course content
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Faculty of Agriculture requirements
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Admission screening expectations
Physics or Mathematics should only be chosen if:
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You did not offer Agricultural Science in secondary school, or
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You are significantly stronger in those subjects.
Common Mistakes Crop Science Aspirants Make
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Replacing Biology with Agricultural Science
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Choosing Commerce, Economics, or Geography
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Assuming “any science subject” is acceptable
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Not checking university-specific requirements
One wrong subject can silently disqualify you, even with a high JAMB score.
Final Notes for JAMB 2026 Candidates
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Always confirm your combination using the JAMB brochure before final submission
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Some universities may have slight preferences, but they never remove Biology or Chemistry
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Polytechnics may be more flexible, but universities are not
If you’re serious about Crop Science, your subject choices should already reflect that seriousness.