Choosing the right JAMB subject combination for Home Science in 2026 is one of those decisions that looks simple… until it isn’t. A lot of candidates assume “anything science-related” will work, only to find out later that their combination quietly disqualified them.
Let’s slow it down, break it properly, and make sure you’re choosing subjects that actually align with how Home Science is structured in Nigerian higher institutions.
First, what exactly is Home Science?
Home Science (sometimes called Home Economics, Human Ecology, or Family and Consumer Sciences depending on the school) is a science-based course with strong practical and human-focused components.
You’ll be dealing with areas like:
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Food and nutrition
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Clothing and textiles
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Family life and resource management
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Consumer education
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Health and home management
So yes, it’s practical. But it’s also scientific. That balance is exactly why JAMB is picky about the subjects.
And as always, Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board requires four subjects total — no shortcuts.
Understanding how JAMB expects you to choose
Before jumping into the subjects, here’s the logic JAMB uses for Home Science:
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There are core subjects you must have
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There are supporting science subjects
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There are optional subjects, where JAMB (or the university) allows flexibility
This is where many candidates get confused — because you don’t pick everything, you choose strategically.
Core Subjects (Non-Negotiable)
These are the subjects that must appear in your JAMB registration, no matter the institution.
1. Use of English
This is compulsory for every JAMB candidate. No explanation needed here — it’s automatic.
2. Biology
Home Science is deeply connected to:
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Human nutrition
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Health
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Growth and development
Biology provides the foundation for all of that. Without it, the course simply doesn’t make sense, and JAMB knows this.
If Biology is missing, Home Science is off the table.
Supporting Science Subjects (Where the real thinking starts)
Now we move into the subjects that strengthen your combination and make it acceptable across most universities.
3. Chemistry
Chemistry matters because:
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Food composition is chemistry
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Cooking reactions are chemistry
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Nutrition science is chemistry
Most universities prefer or outright require Chemistry for Home Science. It’s one of the safest subjects you can add after Biology.
At this point, your solid core looks like:
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Use of English
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Biology
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Chemistry
That’s three subjects locked in.
Optional Subjects (You choose ONE here)
This is where JAMB allows flexibility. You don’t take all of these — you pick one based on what your target institution accepts.
4. Choose ONE of the following:
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Physics
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Agricultural Science
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Economics
Let’s quickly explain why each one works.
Physics
Accepted because it supports scientific reasoning, measurements, and applied processes, especially in textiles and home technology.
Agricultural Science
Very relevant for food production, nutrition, and raw materials used in Home Science.
Economics
This connects strongly to:
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Home management
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Consumer education
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Resource allocation
Some universities actually prefer Economics if the Home Science program leans more toward management and family studies.
Final JAMB Subject Combination for Home Science (2026)
Core Subjects (Always Required):
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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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Physics or
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Agricultural Science or
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Economics
That gives you the required four subjects.
Common mistakes candidates make
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Replacing Biology with Agricultural Science
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Choosing CRS or Government because “it’s easier”
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Ignoring Chemistry entirely
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Assuming all universities accept the same combination
Remember: JAMB may allow a combination, but your chosen university still has the final say.
Smart advice before you register
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Always cross-check your course in the JAMB brochure
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If you’re applying to multiple schools, choose the most widely accepted combination
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When in doubt, Biology + Chemistry + Physics is the safest science path