JAMB Updates Subject Combinations for Medical Courses: Breaking News for 2026 UTME
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially released and reaffirmed the approved subject combinations for medical and health-related courses in Nigerian universities. This announcement, made ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), is extremely important for candidates aspiring to study medical courses.
Choosing the wrong subject combination can automatically disqualify a candidate from admission, regardless of UTME score. In this comprehensive guide, we break down all approved JAMB subject combinations for medical courses, explain why they matter, and show you how to prepare correctly.
JAMB Updates Subject Combinations for Medical Courses
JAMB has maintained clear subject requirements for medical and health-related programs. While some courses have slight variations, English Language is compulsory for all courses, alongside relevant science subjects.
Below are the official JAMB-approved subject combinations for major medical courses in Nigeria.
JAMB Subject Combinations for Medicine and Surgery
Approved Subject Combination for Medicine and Surgery:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
Starting from the 2026 UTME, Mathematics is now compulsory for Medicine and Surgery candidates due to the growing role of data analysis and medical research.
JAMB Subject Combinations for Pharmacy
Approved Subject Combination for Pharmacy:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
This combination reflects the strong scientific and analytical foundation required for pharmaceutical studies.
JAMB Subject Combinations for Medical Laboratory Science (MLS)
Approved Subject Combination for Medical Laboratory Science:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Medical Laboratory Science relies heavily on Biology and Chemistry for diagnostics and disease analysis.
JAMB Subject Combinations for Nursing
Approved Subject Combination for Nursing:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
These subjects prepare candidates for patient care, anatomy, drug administration, and clinical practice.
JAMB Subject Combinations for Dentistry and Dental Surgery
Approved Subject Combination for Dentistry:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Dentistry requires strong knowledge of human anatomy, oral biology, dental materials, and clinical equipment.
JAMB Subject Combinations for Physiotherapy
Approved Subject Combination for Physiotherapy:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Physiotherapy focuses on movement, rehabilitation, and human anatomy, making Biology and Physics essential.
Why Did JAMB Set These Subject Combinations for Medical Courses?
1. Strong Scientific Foundation
Medical courses are science-based and require deep understanding of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics.
2. Preparation for Professional Training
Courses like pharmacology, anatomy, diagnostics, rehabilitation, and surgery demand strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
3. Alignment with Global Medical Education Standards
Medical schools worldwide require similar science-based entry qualifications. JAMB’s guidelines ensure Nigerian students remain globally competitive.
How Will This Affect You? How to Prepare for 2026 UTME
If you plan to study any medical course, strict adherence to these subject combinations is mandatory.
1. Choose the Correct UTME Subjects
Ensure your UTME registration reflects the exact subject combination for your chosen course. Any mistake can lead to automatic disqualification.
2. Focus on Core Science Subjects
Biology and Chemistry are central to all medical courses. Medicine additionally requires Mathematics, while most others require Physics.
3. Check University-Specific Requirements
Some universities may set higher cut-off marks or additional O’Level requirements. Always confirm with your preferred institution.
Benefits of Following the Correct JAMB Subject Combination
Improved Admission Chances
Meeting the correct requirements increases your eligibility across multiple universities.
Better Academic Performance
Students admitted with the right subject background cope better with medical school coursework.
Professional Readiness
Medical professions demand precision, logic, and scientific thinking, all of which are built through these subjects.
How to Adapt Successfully: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Confirm Your Course Choice
Decide early whether you want Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing, MLS, Dentistry, or Physiotherapy.
Step 2: Verify JAMB Guidelines
Cross-check your subject combination with official JAMB guidelines before registration.
Step 3: Update Your Study Plan
Allocate more study time to Biology and Chemistry, and include Physics or Mathematics depending on your course.
Step 4: Use the Right Study Materials
Study with updated JAMB syllabi, recommended textbooks, and past questions focused on medical courses.
Conclusion: Secure Your Medical Career by Preparing Correctly
Medical courses are among the most competitive in Nigeria. Understanding and following JAMB’s approved subject combinations is the first and most important step toward success.
To stay ahead:
- Register with the correct UTME subjects
- Focus on relevant science subjects
- Monitor university-specific requirements
- Prepare early and consistently
With the right preparation, you can confidently meet JAMB requirements and begin your journey into the medical profession.
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