Did you know that choosing the correct JAMB subject combination is one of the most important steps for students who want to study Biochemistry in any Nigerian university? This is because many candidates lose admission opportunities due to selecting the wrong UTME subjects during JAMB registration, and you do not want to make the same mistake. Biochemistry is a science-based course that combines Biology and Chemistry to study living organisms, chemical reactions in the body, drugs, diseases, genetics, and laboratory research.
The course is highly practical and laboratory-oriented; universities require specific science subjects for admission. If you do not want to make any mistakes, this article will serve as a guide showing you the approved JAMB subject combination for Biochemistry for the 2026/2027 academic session, O’Level requirements, Direct Entry qualifications, universities offering the course, and important admission advice for candidates. Ensure to read this information until the end to understand and make the right choices to secure your spot.
What is Biochemistry?
Biochemistry is a branch of science that studies the chemical processes that occur in living things. It combines concepts from Biology, Chemistry, Molecular Science, Genetics, and Physiology. Students studying Biochemistry learn about:
- Human metabolism
- Drug development
- Disease mechanisms
- Biotechnology
- Food and nutrition science
- DNA and genetics
- Laboratory research techniques
Biochemistry graduates can work in hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, food industries, biotechnology firms, and research laboratories.
What is the Approved JAMB Subject Combination for Biochemistry 2026/2027?
Candidates applying for Biochemistry must register and sit for the following four UTME subjects:
- English Language (Compulsory)
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
These subjects are compulsory in almost all Nigerian universities offering Biochemistry.
Why the Correct Subject Combination Matters
Choosing the right JAMB subject combination for Biochemistry plays a major role during admission screening. This is because even if you score very high in UTME, using the wrong subject combination can lead to disqualification.
Note: Choosing Physics in place of Agricultural Science may affect admission, and replacing Biology with Mathematics is not accepted. Candidates should therefore confirm the correct subjects before completing JAMB registration.
O’Level Requirements for Biochemistry
To study Biochemistry in Nigeria, candidates must have at least five (5) credit passes in WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB. The required subjects are:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Most universities accept results from not more than two sittings.
UTME Requirements for Biochemistry
To qualify for admission through UTME, candidates must:
- Choose Biochemistry during JAMB registration
- Sit for the correct four UTME subjects
- Meet the required JAMB cut-off mark
- Participate in Post-UTME or screening exercises
- Upload O’Level results on JAMB CAPS
Biochemistry is competitive in many universities, which is why candidates with higher scores usually have better admission chances.
Direct Entry Requirements for Biochemistry
Candidates can also gain admission into Biochemistry through Direct Entry. Accepted qualifications may include:
- A-Level results
- IJMB
- JUPEB
- OND
- HND
- Science Laboratory Technology certificates
Most universities require:
- Two A-Level passes in Chemistry and Biology or Physics
- Relevant ND/HND qualifications with good grades
All Direct Entry applicants must still meet the standard O-Level requirements.
List of Nigerian Universities Offering Biochemistry
Biochemistry is offered in many federal, state, and private universities across Nigeria. The course is available under faculties such as Biological Sciences, Pure and Applied Sciences, or Basic Medical Sciences, depending on the institution. Below is a list of universities in Nigeria known to offer Biochemistry:
Federal Universities:
- Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University
- Ahmadu Bello University
- Bayero University Kano
- Federal University Gashua
- Federal University of Petroleum Resources
- Federal University of Technology, Akure
- Federal University of Technology, Minna
- Federal University of Technology Owerri
- Federal University Dutse
- Federal University Dutsin-Ma
- Federal University Kashere
- Federal University Lafia
- Federal University Lokoja
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University
- Federal University Otuoke
- Federal University Oye-Ekiti
- Federal University Wukari
- Federal University Birnin Kebbi
- Michael Okpara University of Agriculture
- Modibbo Adama University
- National Open University of Nigeria
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University
- Obafemi Awolowo University
- University of Abuja
- Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta
- University of Agriculture Makurdi
- University of Benin
- University of Calabar
- University of Ibadan
- University of Ilorin
- University of Jos
- University of Lagos
- University of Maiduguri
- University of Nigeria
- University of Port Harcourt
- University of Uyo
- Usmanu Danfodiyo University
- Nigerian Maritime University
- Air Force Institute of Technology
- Nigerian Army University
- Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo
- Federal University of Agriculture, Zuru
- Federal University of Technology, Babura
- Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi
- Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare
- Federal University of Health Sciences Ila-Orangun
State Universities:
- Ekiti State University
- Delta State University
- Lagos State University
- Rivers State University
- Benue State University
- Kogi State University
- Ebonyi State University
- Ambrose Alli University
- Enugu State University of Science and Technology
- Imo State University
- Olabisi Onabanjo University
- Kaduna State University
- Abia State University
- Osun State University
- Akwa Ibom State University
Private Universities:
- Covenant University
- Babcock University
- Bowen University
- Afe Babalola University
- Igbinedion University
- Madonna University
- Caleb University
- Lead City University
- Achievers University
- Redeemer’s University
- Joseph Ayo Babalola University
- Gregory University
- Novena University
- Benson Idahosa University
Career Opportunities for Biochemistry Graduates
Biochemistry graduates can work in several industries, including:
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Hospitals and laboratories
- Food and beverage industries
- Cosmetic companies
- Biotechnology firms
- Environmental agencies
- Research institutes
- Universities and colleges
Some graduates also proceed to postgraduate studies in Medicine, Molecular Biology, Toxicology, and related fields.
Important Note for Applicants
Before choosing any university for Biochemistry, candidates should:
- Confirm the course is available for the current admission session
- Check the school’s departmental cut-off mark
- Verify Post-UTME requirements
- Confirm accreditation status through the appropriate admission portal
Note: Admission requirements may vary slightly from one university to another.
We believe you found this article about the JAMB subject combination for Biochemistry helpful. Biochemistry remains one of the best science courses for students interested in research, healthcare, laboratory science, and biotechnology. However, gaining admission requires proper preparation and the correct subject combination.
Candidates are strongly advised to check their preferred university requirements carefully before applying to avoid mistakes during admission screening. Keep visiting this website for more updates, share this guide with friends, and if you have any questions, do not hesitate to visit the comment section to be guided with the right information to prepare to study Biochemistry in Nigeria.
Leave a Comment