So you’re eyeing Optometry in 2026? 👀
Love science, curious about vision, and low-key interested in becoming the go-to eye expert? Cool — but before you lock in that dream, let’s talk JAMB subject combination, because this part can make or break your admission.
I won’t rush the answer. Let’s really break it down so you understand why each subject matters — and where you may have options.
Why Subject Combination Matters for Optometry (No Skips Here)
Optometry is a medical/health science course. Universities expect you to come in already comfortable with:
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human biology 🧠
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chemical processes 🧪
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light, lenses, and vision mechanics 🔬
That’s why JAMB is strict here. One wrong subject and — painful truth — even a high UTME score won’t save you.
Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board only tests four subjects, but for courses like Optometry, three are non-negotiable.
Let’s identify those first.
🔒 Core Subjects for Optometry (These Are Mandatory)
These subjects are the foundation. You don’t debate them. You don’t swap them.
✅ Core Subjects (Always Required)
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Use of English (compulsory for all courses)
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Biology
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Chemistry
Why these three?
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Biology → human eye anatomy, physiology, vision science
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Chemistry → drugs, solutions, lenses, and lab work
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English → communication, patient interaction, academic work
No Optometry department jokes with these.
🔄 The 4th Subject: This Is Where Choice Comes In
JAMB requires four subjects, not three.
So after locking in the core subjects above, you must add ONE more science subject — and this is where candidates usually ask:
“Is Physics compulsory?”
“Can I use Mathematics instead?”
Let’s answer that properly 👇
🎯 Accepted Optional Subjects for Optometry (Choose ONE)
🟢 Option 1: Physics (Highly Preferred)
This is the most accepted and safest option.
Why?
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Optometry deals heavily with light, lenses, refraction, and optics
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Many universities explicitly prefer or require Physics
If your Physics is solid → pick this and move on.
🟡 Option 2: Mathematics (Accepted by Some Schools)
Some universities accept Mathematics as an alternative, especially if:
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your Physics result is weak
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the school’s requirements are more flexible
Math helps with:
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measurements
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calculations
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data interpretation
⚠️ Important: Not all universities accept Math instead of Physics. Always confirm with the school you’re applying to.
✅ Final JAMB Subject Combinations for Optometry (2026)
Here’s the clean summary you can screenshot 📸
✔️ Standard & Safest Combination
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Use of English
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Physics
✔️ Alternative (School-Dependent)
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Use of English
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Mathematics
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid (People Mess This Up Every Year)
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❌ Using Agricultural Science instead of Chemistry
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❌ Using Geography or Economics
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❌ Dropping Biology (this one is fatal)
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❌ Assuming all schools accept Mathematics
One wrong move = automatic disqualification. No appeal. No pity.
Pro Tip (Smart Candidates Do This)
Before final submission:
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Check the JAMB brochure
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Confirm your first-choice university’s Optometry requirements
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Choose the most widely accepted option, not the easiest
Optometry is competitive — play it smart.