If you’re thinking of studying Forestry in 2026, pause for a second. Before scores, before cut-off marks, before vibes — your JAMB subject combination has to be correct. This is one of those courses where people think they know the subjects… then JAMB quietly says “invalid combination.”
Let’s break it down properly, step by step, so you don’t make a mistake that costs you admission.
What Forestry Really Is (and Why Your Subjects Matter)
Forestry isn’t just about trees and nature walks. In Nigerian universities, Forestry is a science-based course that blends:
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Biology (plants, ecosystems, conservation)
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Chemistry (soil, nutrients, environmental processes)
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Geography and environmental studies
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Applied sciences used in land and forest management
Because of this mix, Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board treats Forestry as a science/agricultural course, not an art or commercial one. That classification is what determines the subjects you’re allowed to combine.
The One Subject You Cannot Escape
No matter the course, no matter the year:
Use of English is compulsory.
That’s non-negotiable. Forestry candidates are not exempt.
So from the four subjects JAMB requires, one slot is already taken.
Understanding Core vs Optional Subjects (This Is Where People Get Confused)
For Forestry, JAMB works with core subjects and optional subjects.
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Core subjects are the ones JAMB expects every Forestry candidate to have.
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Optional subjects are acceptable alternatives — you choose one depending on what your school allows.
If you miss a core subject, you’re out.
If you pick a wrong optional subject, you’re also out.
Let’s now get into the real thing.
Core Subjects for Forestry (Must-Have)
These subjects form the foundation of Forestry and are accepted across Nigerian universities:
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Use of English
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Biology
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Chemistry
Biology is there because Forestry deals heavily with plant life, ecosystems, and environmental biology.
Chemistry matters because of soil science, conservation chemistry, and ecological processes.
These three are non-negotiable core subjects.
Optional Subjects (You Choose One)
This is where JAMB gives flexibility.
After English, Biology, and Chemistry, you will choose one of the following subjects as your fourth subject:
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Physics
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Geography
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Agricultural Science
Any one of these is acceptable, but your final choice should align with:
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The university you’re applying to
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Your academic strength
Official JAMB Subject Combination for Forestry (2026)
After all the explanations, here is the correct and complete combination:
Core Subjects
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Use of English
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Biology
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Chemistry
Optional Subject (Choose ONE)
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Physics OR
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Geography OR
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Agricultural Science
That makes the required four subjects.
Smart Advice Before You Lock It In
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Some universities prefer Physics over Geography or Agricultural Science.
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Colleges of Agriculture and some state universities may favor Agricultural Science.
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Geography is usually accepted but not always preferred.
Always confirm with:
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The JAMB brochure
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Your chosen institution’s admission requirements
Common Forestry JAMB Mistakes to Avoid
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Replacing Biology with Agricultural Science (they are NOT the same)
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Using Economics or Government because “it’s environmental”
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Assuming all science subjects are acceptable
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Copying a friend’s subject combo without checking the course
One wrong subject is enough to disqualify you, even with a high UTME score.
Final Thoughts
Forestry is a solid course with growing relevance in climate change, conservation, and environmental management. But none of that matters if your JAMB subject combination is wrong.
Take your time, choose wisely, and register smart.