Chemistry is one of the most popular and competitive courses in Nigeria. As a branch of science, it deals with the study of the structure, composition, properties, and reactions of matter. Beyond its core applications, Chemistry plays a key role in many other fields, such as medicine, pharmacy, engineering, agriculture, and education.
If you’re planning to study Chemistry or any related course at a Nigerian university, it’s essential to know the JAMB subject combination for Chemistry in 2025/2026. In this post, we’ll cover the JAMB subject combination, the O’level requirements, and the direct entry requirements for Chemistry. Additionally, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions to help you on your journey.
JAMB Subject Combination for Chemistry 2025/2026
To study Chemistry at a Nigerian university, you must register for the following subjects in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME):
- Use of English (Compulsory for all courses)
- Chemistry (Required for Chemistry-related courses)
- Two subjects from Physics, Biology, or Mathematics
For example, if you want to pursue a career in medicine, your combination should include Physics and Biology. If you are more interested in agricultural engineering, then you would need Mathematics and Physics.
It is important to note that some universities may have specific requirements for their Chemistry program, so always refer to the JAMB brochure for accurate details related to your preferred institution.
O’Level Requirements for Chemistry 2025/2026
The O’level requirements are the minimum qualifications you must meet in your Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) or its equivalent. These are the grades you must have to be considered for admission:
- Five credit passes in SSCE or its equivalent in no more than two sittings.
- The five credits should include English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, and either Biology or Agricultural Science.
Some universities may accept a pass in Biology or Agricultural Science if you have a credit in Physics, while others may accept a pass in Physics if you have a credit in Biology or Agricultural Science.
Accepted O’level qualifications include:
- West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE)
- National Examination Council (NECO)
- General Certificate of Education (GCE)
- National Business and Technical Examination Board (NABTEB)
- International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE)
You may also combine two different exam results from the same examination body, like WASSCE and GCE or NECO and GCE.
Direct Entry Requirements for Chemistry 2025/2026
For candidates applying for direct entry into Chemistry, these are the additional qualifications required to gain admission into the second or third year:
- Two A-Level passes in Chemistry and any one of Physics, Mathematics, or Biology.
- A National Diploma (ND) with at least upper credit in Chemistry or a related course from a recognized institution.
- A Higher National Diploma (HND) with at least lower credit in Chemistry or a related course.
- An NCE with at least merit in Chemistry and one other science subject.
Other qualifications like IJMB, JUPEB, or Cambridge A-Level may also be accepted by some universities. Always check the JAMB brochure for the specific direct entry requirements of your preferred institution.
Nigerian Universities Offering Chemistry in 2025/2026
If you’re interested in studying Chemistry, here are some universities offering the program:
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Lagos (UL)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- University of Benin (UB)
- Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)
- University of Ilorin (UI)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
This list also includes private and state universities like Covenant University (CU), Bowen University (BU), and Ambrose Alli University (AAU). Some institutions offer specialized branches like Industrial Chemistry or Pure and Industrial Chemistry.
Conclusion
Studying Chemistry in a Nigerian university is an excellent choice for anyone passionate about science and its applications. However, meeting the JAMB subject combination for Chemistry 2025/2026, the O’level requirements, and the direct entry requirements is essential for securing admission.
We hope this blog post has provided you with all the information you need to prepare for your JAMB and Chemistry course admission. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below, and we’ll be happy to help. Good luck with your exams and future endeavors!
FAQs
Can I use a combination of WAEC and NECO results to apply for Chemistry?
No, you can only combine results from the same exam body. For example, you can combine WAEC and GCE, but not WAEC and NECO.
What subjects are compulsory for Chemistry in JAMB?
The compulsory subjects for Chemistry are Use of English and Chemistry. You must also select two from Physics, Biology, or Mathematics based on your intended course or university.
Can I study Chemistry without Physics?
While Physics is often required for Chemistry, some universities may accept other subjects like Biology or Agricultural Science. Always check the JAMB brochure for specific requirements.
What is the best combination for someone who wants to study Chemistry and go into education?
The best JAMB combination would be Use of English, Chemistry, Biology, and either Mathematics or Physics, depending on your university’s requirements.