Choosing the correct JAMB subject combination for Business Administration is one of the most important steps toward gaining admission into any Nigerian university to study this highly competitive management course. Every year, thousands of candidates lose admission opportunities simply because they selected the wrong UTME subjects during registration.

In this article, you’ll learn the approved JAMB subject combination for Business Administration, O’Level requirements, Direct Entry qualifications, universities offering the course, and expert tips to maximise your admission chances for the 2026/2027 academic session.

What Is the JAMB Subject Combination for Business Administration?

The approved JAMB subject combination for Business Administration consists of four UTME subjects:

• English Language (compulsory for all courses)

• Mathematics

• Economics

• One other relevant subject (Commerce, Government, Accounting, or Business Studies)

This subject structure aligns with the academic foundation required for management and business-related programmes in Nigerian universities.

In JAMB UTME, English is mandatory for all candidates, while the remaining three subjects must be directly relevant to your chosen course of study.

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Why These Subjects Are Required for Business Administration

Universities select UTME subjects based on the knowledge and skills needed for success in the course. Here’s why each subject matters:

English Language

Business Administration involves communication, report writing, and management correspondence. Strong English skills are essential for leadership and organisational roles.

Mathematics

Mathematics supports accounting, financial analysis, statistics, budgeting, and quantitative decision-making in business environments.

Economics

Economics provides understanding of markets, demand and supply, pricing systems, and economic policy—core concepts in business operations.

Commerce / Government / Accounting / Business Studies

These subjects introduce commercial activities, governance structures, bookkeeping, and organisational systems relevant to business management.

O-Level Requirements for Business Administration

In addition to the UTME subject combination, candidates must meet WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB O’Level requirements.

Required O’Level Subjects

You must have at least five (5) credit passes in:

• English Language

• Mathematics

• Economics

• Any two of: Commerce, Accounting, Government, Business Studies, or Marketing

These credits should be obtained in not more than two sittings.

Some competitive universities may require a single sitting for merit admission.

Direct Entry Requirements for Business Administration

Candidates applying through Direct Entry (DE) into 200-level must possess any of the following qualifications:

• National Diploma (ND) in Business or related field

• Higher National Diploma (HND)

• National Certificate in Education (NCE) with merit

• Relevant A-Level passes

These qualifications allow candidates to skip the UTME entry level and begin from the second year.

How many years is a Business Administration Degree in Nigeria

The duration for Business Administration degree depends on the admission mode:

• UTME candidates: 4 years

• Direct Entry candidates: 3 years

After completion, graduates receive a Bachelor’s Degree (B.Sc or BBA) in Business Administration.

Universities Offering Business Administration in Nigeria

Business Administration is widely available across federal, state, and private universities in Nigeria.

Federal Universities

Examples include:

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)

• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

• University of Benin (UNIBEN)

• University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

State Universities

Examples include:

• Lagos State University (LASU)

• Delta State University (DELSU)

• Ekiti State University (EKSU)

• Rivers State University (RSU)

Private Universities

Examples include:

• Covenant University

• Babcock University

• Bowen University

• Afe Babalola University

Business Administration is offered in management, commerce, or business faculties across Nigerian universities.

JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Business Administration

While subject combination determines eligibility, your JAMB score determines competitiveness.

Typical cut-off ranges:

• Federal universities: 200 – 250+

• State universities: 180 – 220

• Private universities: 160 – 200

Highly competitive schools like UNILAG or UNN may require 230+ for Business Administration admission.

Can I Study Business Administration Without Commerce?

Yes, commerce is not compulsory.

You can substitute it with:

• Government

• Accounting

• Business Studies

Any of these satisfies the UTME requirement as long as Mathematics and Economics are included.

Can I Change a Wrong JAMB Subject Combination?

If you selected incorrect subjects during registration:

• You cannot change subjects after UTME registration closes

• You may change course/institution after the results are released

However, admission into Business Administration will only be possible if your UTME subjects match the approved combination.

Is Business Administration a Good Course in Nigeria?

Yes. Business Administration is one of the most versatile and marketable courses in Nigeria because it prepares graduates for multiple career paths, including:

• Banking and finance

• Marketing and sales

• Human resource management

• Entrepreneurship

• Public administration

• Corporate management

Graduates can work in private companies, government agencies, NGOs, or start their own businesses.

Difference Between Business Administration and Business Management

Many students confuse these two related courses.

• Business Administration: broader focus on organisational operations and management functions

• Business Management: emphasis on leadership, strategy, and decision-making

Most Nigerian universities treat them similarly at the undergraduate level.

Tips to Gain Admission into Business Administration

Choose Correct UTME Subjects

Ensure you register:

English + Mathematics + Economics + one relevant subject

Aim for a High JAMB Score

Competitive universities require 220+.

Score Well in Post-UTME

Many schools combine UTME and screening scores.

Have Strong O’Level Results

Credits in Maths, English, and Economics are essential.

Apply to Realistic Universities

Consider schools with a cut-off matching your score.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the four JAMB subjects for Business Administration?

English Language, Mathematics, Economics, and one of Commerce, Government, Accounting, or Business Studies.

Is Mathematics compulsory for Business Administration?

Yes. Mathematics is mandatory in both UTME and O’Level.

Can I use Government instead of Commerce?

Yes. Government is an accepted alternative subject.

Can I study Business Administration without Economics?

No. Economics is required in both UTME and O’Level.

How many years is Business Administration in Nigeria?

4 years via UTME and 3 years via Direct Entry.

Conclusion

When applying for any course in the University, selecting the correct JAMB subject combination for the course is the first and most crucial step toward securing admission into Nigerian universities.  The approved JAMB subjects Combination for Business Administration is English Language, Mathematics, Economics, and one relevant commercial or social science subject such as Commerce, Government, Accounting, or Business Studies.

Aside from choosing the appropriate subjects, candidates must also meet O-Level credit requirements, achieve competitive JAMB scores, and perform well in Post-UTME screening. Because Business Administration remains one of Nigeria’s most popular and versatile courses, proper preparation and accurate subject combination significantly improve admission chances.

Before completing your JAMB registration, always confirm requirements through the official JAMB brochure or your chosen university, as the requirements might vary for some institutions.

If you have questions to ask, please drop them in the comment box. Our team will respond to you immediately.