Every JAMB candidate writes four subjects: Use of English (compulsory) plus three subjects related to the course. For example, Medicine and Nursing usually need Biology, Chemistry and Physics; Engineering needs Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry; Law usually needs Literature in English plus two arts or social science subjects. Always confirm the exact combination for your course and school in the JAMB brochure before registering.
Choosing the wrong subject combination is one of the most painful JAMB mistakes. You can score 320 and still be ineligible for your course. Here's how combinations work, with the usual requirements for popular courses.
How do JAMB subject combinations work?
You write four subjects in the UTME:
- Use of English: compulsory for everyone (60 questions)
- Three other subjects that your chosen course requires (40 questions each)
Each subject is scored out of 100, for a total out of 400. Your three subjects must match what your course and institution ask for, so check before you pay for registration.
Usual combinations for popular courses
These are the combinations most Nigerian universities ask for. Some schools differ, especially for the fourth subject, so treat this as a starting point and confirm in the brochure.
| Course | Usual UTME subjects (plus English) |
|---|---|
| Medicine & Surgery | Biology, Chemistry, Physics |
| Nursing | Biology, Chemistry, Physics |
| Pharmacy | Biology, Chemistry, Physics (some schools accept Mathematics) |
| Engineering (most branches) | Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry |
| Computer Science | Mathematics, Physics, plus one science or social science (varies) |
| Law | Literature in English, plus two arts or social science subjects (often Government, CRS/IRS or History) |
| Accounting | Mathematics, Economics, plus one of Accounting, Commerce or Government |
| Economics | Mathematics, Economics, plus one social science |
| Mass Communication | Literature in English, plus two arts or social science subjects |
| Agriculture | Chemistry, Biology or Agricultural Science, plus Mathematics or Physics |
How do I choose between two possible combinations?
When a course allows options (for example, the fourth subject for Computer Science), pick the subject where your mock scores are highest. A subject you score 75 in is worth more than a "more relevant" one you score 50 in, as long as both are accepted.
What if I'm not sure of my course yet?
Pick the combination that keeps the most doors open. Biology, Chemistry and Physics, for example, covers Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy and many other science courses. Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry covers Engineering and most physical sciences. Then use weekly mocks to see where you're strongest.
Practise in exactly your four subjects
Once your combination is fixed, practise in exactly those four. 2Wise sets up your mocks and daily drills around your four UTME subjects, scored out of 400, so every minute of practice counts towards the real thing. Next, read how to score 300 in JAMB.
Frequently asked questions
Is English compulsory in JAMB?
Yes. Use of English is compulsory for every UTME candidate, whatever course you choose. It's 60 questions and is scored out of 100, like your other three subjects.
Can I change my JAMB subjects after registration?
Subject combination is chosen at registration. JAMB has in past years allowed some corrections through its portal for a fee during a correction window, but don't count on it. Get the combination right before you register.
Where do I check the correct subject combination for my course?
In the JAMB brochure (on the JAMB e-facility portal at jamb.gov.ng), which lists the UTME subject requirements for each course at each institution. Requirements can differ between universities for the same course.
What subjects do I need for Medicine in JAMB?
Use of English, Biology, Chemistry and Physics is the standard combination for Medicine and Surgery in Nigerian universities.
Last checked 22 October 2026. JAMB changes dates and rules from year to year. Always confirm on jamb.gov.ng.