If you’re thinking of studying Soil Science in 2026, pause for a second before rushing into JAMB registration. This is one of those courses where one wrong subject choice can quietly ruin your chances — even if you score high.
So let’s slow things down and break it properly.
Soil Science isn’t just about dirt. It sits at the heart of agriculture, food security, climate sustainability, and environmental management. Universities take it seriously, and that reflects in the subject requirements.
This guide walks you through:
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what Soil Science really involves
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why certain subjects are compulsory
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where flexibility comes in
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and how to avoid common JAMB mistakes in 2026
No rushing. No guessing.
What Soil Science Really Is (And Why JAMB Cares)
Soil Science deals with:
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soil formation and classification
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soil fertility and plant nutrition
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land use and conservation
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water movement in soils
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environmental impact on soil systems
Because of this, universities expect candidates to already have a science-based foundation. JAMB subject combinations are designed to test whether you’re prepared for that level of study.
That’s why some subjects are non-negotiable, while others are flexible.
Understanding Core vs Optional Subjects in JAMB
For JAMB, every candidate must register four subjects:
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Use of English (compulsory for all courses)
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three other subjects related to your course
For Soil Science, those three are divided into:
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core subjects (must be included)
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optional subjects (you choose based on strength or school preference)
This is where many candidates get confused — and disqualified.
Core JAMB Subjects for Soil Science (Non-Negotiable)
These subjects form the backbone of Soil Science. You must have them.
1. Use of English (Compulsory)
This is automatic. No matter the course, JAMB requires it. No debate here.
2. Chemistry (Core)
Chemistry is essential because Soil Science deals heavily with:
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nutrient cycles
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soil reactions
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fertilizers and soil chemistry
Without Chemistry, most universities will not consider you at all.
3. Biology or Agricultural Science (Core)
This is where many candidates relax too early.
Universities usually accept either:
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Biology
or -
Agricultural Science
Both work because Soil Science connects plant growth, microorganisms, and soil life.
However:
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some universities prefer Agricultural Science
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some accept both equally
If you’re coming from a strong agricultural background, Agricultural Science gives you an edge.
Optional Subjects You Can Choose From (Pick One)
After English, Chemistry, and Biology/Agricultural Science, you now need one more subject to complete your four.
This is where JAMB gives flexibility.
Commonly Accepted Optional Subjects
You can choose one of the following, depending on your strength and university choice:
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Physics
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Mathematics
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Geography
Why these are accepted:
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Physics helps with soil mechanics, water movement, and land measurement
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Mathematics supports calculations, statistics, and data analysis
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Geography connects soil to land use, climate, and environment
You do not need to register all of them. One is enough.
Recommended JAMB Subject Combinations for Soil Science (2026)
Here are safe and commonly accepted combinations:
Option 1 (Most Popular):
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Use of English
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Chemistry
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Agricultural Science
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Physics
Option 2 (Math-friendly candidates):
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Use of English
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Chemistry
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Biology
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Mathematics
Option 3 (Environment-focused):
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Use of English
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Chemistry
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Agricultural Science
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Geography
All three combinations meet standard university requirements for Soil Science in Nigeria.
Subjects You Should Avoid
Some candidates make the mistake of adding unrelated subjects just to “complete four”.
Avoid combinations that include:
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Economics
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Government
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Literature in English
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CRS / IRS
These subjects do not align with Soil Science and may get your application rejected automatically.
Final Warning for JAMB 2026 Candidates
Once your subjects are submitted, Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board does not correct mistakes lightly. Many candidates lose admission every year not because they failed JAMB — but because they chose the wrong subjects.
Before registering:
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check your preferred university requirements
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confirm flexibility in Biology vs Agricultural Science
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choose an optional subject you can actually score high in
Quick Recap
Core subjects for Soil Science:
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Use of English
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Chemistry
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Biology or Agricultural Science
Optional subjects (choose one):
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Physics
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Mathematics
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Geography