The first step is to choose the correct JAMB subject combination for Nursing for candidates seeking admission into Nigerian universities to study Nursing Science. Over the year, a lot of UTME candidates lose admission opportunities simply because they selected the wrong subjects during JAMB registration.

If you carefully read this article, you’ll learn the approved JAMB subject combination for Nursing, O’Level requirements, admission tips, and frequently asked questions. If you plan to study Nursing in Nigeria, this article will help you avoid costly mistakes and improve your admission chances.

What Is the JAMB Subject Combination for Nursing?

The official JAMB subject combination for Nursing Science consists of four UTME subjects required by Nigerian universities and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.

Approved UTME Subjects for Nursing

To study Nursing in any accredited Nigerian university, you must register for the following subjects in JAMB:

• English Language (compulsory for all courses)

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Physics

These four subjects are mandatory because Nursing is a health science course that requires strong knowledge of life sciences, chemistry, and medical physics principles.

Selecting any subject outside this combination (for example, Agricultural Science or Mathematics in UTME) can disqualify you from Nursing admission, even if your JAMB score is high.

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What Subjects Are Required for Nursing and Why

Universities use subject combinations to ensure candidates have the academic foundation needed for professional healthcare training.

Biology – Foundation of Human Health Sciences

Biology covers anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and genetics, which form the core of Nursing education. It helps students understand the human body and disease processes.

Chemistry – Basis of Pharmacology and Biochemistry

Chemistry is essential for understanding drugs, metabolism, and biochemical reactions in the body. Nursing students study medication administration and biochemical processes extensively.

Physics – Medical Technology and Patient Care

Physics explains medical equipment operation, radiation, pressure, and body mechanics, which are important in clinical practice.

English Language – Communication and Medical Documentation

English is compulsory because nurses must communicate clearly with patients and healthcare teams and understand medical terminology.

O’Level Requirements for Nursing Admission

In addition to the UTME subject combination, candidates must meet specific WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB requirements to qualify for Nursing admission.

Required O’Level Subjects

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

• English Language

• Mathematics

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Physics

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

Some competitive institutions may require all credits in one sitting, especially for Nursing and other health-related programmes.

Direct Entry Requirements for Nursing

Candidates applying through Direct Entry (DE) instead of UTME must meet higher academic qualifications.

Accepted Direct Entry Qualifications

Common Direct Entry requirements for Nursing include:

• Registered Nurse (RN) certificate

• ND/HND in related health fields

• IJMB or JUPEB with Biology, Chemistry, Physics

• A-Level passes in Biology, Chemistry, Physics

Universities may also require professional licensing or clinical training evidence before admission.

Universities Offering Nursing in Nigeria

Many federal, state, and private universities offer Nursing Science programmes accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).

Federal Universities Offering Nursing

Examples include:

• University of Ibadan (UI)

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)

• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

• University of Benin (UNIBEN)

• University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

Federal universities are highly competitive and usually require higher JAMB scores.

State Universities Offering Nursing

Examples include:

• Lagos State University (LASU)

• Delta State University (DELSU)

• Ebonyi State University (EBSU)

• Abia State University (ABSU)

• Rivers State University (RSU)

State universities also maintain competitive admission standards.

Private Universities Offering Nursing

Examples include:

• Babcock University

• Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)

• Bowen University

• Igbinedion University

• Redeemer’s University

Private universities may have slightly lower JAMB cut-off marks, but still require the same subject combination.

Can I Change JAMB Subject Combination After Registration?

Yes. JAMB allows candidates to correct subject combinations after registration through the JAMB correction portal.

However:

• Corrections require payment

• Deadline applies

• Not all universities accept late corrections

It is safer to choose the correct Nursing subject combination during initial registration.

JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Nursing

Meeting the subject combination requirement alone does not guarantee admission. Candidates must also meet the Nursing cut-off mark.

Typical JAMB Score Range for Nursing

• Minimum eligibility: 180–200

• Competitive universities: 220–260+

• Top federal schools: 240+

Higher scores significantly improve admission chances because Nursing is highly competitive.

How to Increase Your Chances of Nursing Admission

Meeting subject requirements is only the first step. Candidates should also strengthen their academic profile.

Aim for High UTME Scores

Competitive Nursing schools admit candidates with strong JAMB performance. Target 240+ for federal universities.

Prepare for Post-UTME Screening

Many universities conduct Post-UTME tests or screening. Strong performance boosts aggregate scores.

Secure Excellent O’Level Results

Credits in one sitting give an advantage, especially in top universities.

Choose Less Competitive Schools Strategically

If your score is moderate, consider state or private universities offering Nursing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the four JAMB subjects for Nursing?

The required subjects are English Language, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

Is Mathematics required in JAMB for Nursing?

No. Mathematics is required in O’Level but not part of the UTME subject combination.

Can I study Nursing without Physics in JAMB?

No. Physics is compulsory for Nursing admission in Nigerian universities.

Can I use Agricultural Science instead of Biology?

No. Biology is mandatory and cannot be replaced.

Importance of Choosing the Correct JAMB Subject Combination

Choosing the right subjects determines eligibility before universities even consider scores.

Candidates with wrong combinations:

• Are automatically disqualified

• Cannot be considered for Nursing

• May need to change course

Correct subject selection ensures your UTME result is valid for Nursing admission screening.

Final Advice for Nursing Aspirants 2026/2027

If you plan to study Nursing Science in Nigeria:

• Select English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics in JAMB

• Obtain five O’Level science credits

• Aim for high JAMB scores

• Prepare for Post-UTME

• Verify university requirements

These steps position you strongly in the competitive Nursing admission process.

Conclusion

The approved JAMB subject combination for Nursing is English Language, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. This combination is compulsory for all candidates seeking admission into Nursing Science programmes in Nigerian universities.

Alongside correct subject selection, candidates must also meet O’Level requirements and competitive JAMB cut-off marks to secure admission. Because Nursing remains one of Nigeria’s most sought-after health science courses, proper preparation and accurate registration are essential. Always confirm requirements from the JAMB brochure or your chosen university.

If you have questions to ask, please drop them in the comment section, and our team will respond to you immediately.