JAMB Subject Combination for Nursing Science in Nigeria: 2026/2027 Requirements

If you're aiming for Nursing Science in Nigeria, the first thing you need to get right is your JAMB subject combination. For 2026/2027, the UTME combination for Nursing is English Language, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. That's the standard four-subject combination accepted by most Nigerian universities offering Nursing. But there's more to it than just picking subjects — your O'Level grades, cut-off mark, and how well you prepare all matter. This guide breaks it down clearly for students, parents, and teachers.

What Is the JAMB Subject Combination for Nursing Science?

The JAMB UTME subject combination for Nursing Science in Nigeria is:

• English Language (compulsory for all courses)
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics

This combination is used by virtually every Nigerian university offering Nursing — whether federal, state, or private. Some institutions may accept Mathematics in place of Physics, but this is rare and varies by school. Always confirm with your target university's brochure or departmental requirements before registering.

Why this combination? Nursing is a science-based course. You'll study anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical procedures. Biology gives you the foundation in living systems, Chemistry explains drug interactions and bodily processes, and Physics helps with understanding medical equipment and bodily mechanics. English Language is essential for communication, documentation, and patient interaction.

O'Level Requirements for Nursing Science

Your JAMB combination alone won't get you in. You also need the right O'Level subjects — and the right grades. For Nursing Science, most universities require:

• English Language — Credit (C6 or better)
• Mathematics — Credit
• Biology — Credit
• Chemistry — Credit
• Physics — Credit

That's five credit passes including English and Maths. Some schools also require a credit in Agricultural Science or Further Mathematics, but those are less common. The key point: you cannot afford to fail any of these core subjects.

If you're also preparing for WAEC or NECO, our guide on WAEC subjects for medicine in Nigeria covers the science subject requirements in detail — the overlap with Nursing is significant, so it's worth a read even if you're not going for Medicine.

JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Nursing Science

Nursing is competitive. The JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing Science varies by university, but here's a realistic range:

• Federal universities: 220–260
• State universities: 200–240
• Private universities: 180–220

These are minimum benchmarks. In practice, the actual cut-off for admission is often higher because of the number of applicants. For example, a federal university might set its JAMB cut-off at 220, but the departmental cut-off for Nursing could be 250 or more. Always aim higher than the minimum.

If you're also considering Medicine and Surgery, our article on JAMB cut-off mark for Medicine and Surgery explains how competitive courses set their admission thresholds — the same logic applies to Nursing.

Worked Example: A Real JAMB-Style Question on Subject Combination

Let's walk through a typical JAMB question that tests your understanding of subject combinations — and more importantly, your reasoning.

Question: A student wants to study Nursing Science at the University of Ibadan. Which of the following UTME subject combinations is most appropriate?

A. English Language, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics
B. English Language, Biology, Chemistry, Physics
C. English Language, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics
D. English Language, Biology, Agricultural Science, Physics

Step-by-step breakdown:

1. Identify the course requirements. Nursing Science requires Biology, Chemistry, and Physics as the core science subjects. English Language is compulsory for all courses.
2. Eliminate options that miss a core subject. Option A replaces Physics with Mathematics — not acceptable for most Nursing programmes. Option C misses Biology entirely. Option D uses Agricultural Science instead of Chemistry — also not acceptable.
3. Confirm the correct combination. Option B includes English Language, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics — exactly what Nursing requires.
4. Answer: B.

This type of question tests whether you know the specific subject requirements for your course. It's not enough to know "science subjects" — you need the exact combination. Practising questions like this builds the recall you need for exam day.

Want more practice with UTME-style questions? Our UTME combo guide for Medicine has similar worked examples that sharpen your reasoning for competitive science courses.

How to Prepare for JAMB Nursing Science

Knowing the subject combination is step one. Step two is preparing well. Here's how:

1. Master the Core Subjects

Biology, Chemistry, and Physics are your foundation. Don't just read — practise. Use past questions to test your understanding. For Biology, pay special attention to human anatomy and physiology, since these are directly relevant to Nursing.

2. Don't Neglect English Language

English is compulsory and often underestimated. Comprehension passages, lexis and structure, and oral forms all carry marks. Our guide on how to answer JAMB comprehension passages is a good place to start if English is your weak point.

3. Practise with Mock Exams

Mock exams simulate the real JAMB CBT environment. They help you manage time, reduce exam anxiety, and identify weak topics. At Tueri Prep, you can take subject-specific mocks that mirror the actual JAMB format. The more you practise, the more confident you become.

4. Use the Right Study Materials

Stick to JAMB-recommended textbooks and past questions. Avoid random online summaries that may contain errors. If you're preparing for WAEC or NECO alongside JAMB, our NECO Biology practical guide can help you prepare for the practical aspects of Biology, which also strengthen your JAMB performance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Every year, students make avoidable mistakes that cost them admission. Here are the most common:

• Choosing the wrong subject combination. Double-check your JAMB registration. Once submitted, changes are difficult.
• Ignoring O'Level requirements. A good JAMB score won't save you if you don't have the required credits.
• Not checking university-specific requirements. Some schools have slightly different requirements. Always verify.
• Underestimating the cut-off mark. Aim for 250+ if you're targeting a competitive federal university.
• Leaving preparation to the last minute. Start early. Consistent practice beats cramming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I study Nursing Science without Physics in JAMB?

Most Nigerian universities require Physics for Nursing Science. A few may accept Mathematics in its place, but this is not standard. Check your target university's requirements before registering. If you're unsure, stick with Physics — it's the safer choice.

What is the JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing Science in 2026/2027?

The minimum JAMB cut-off mark for Nursing Science is typically 200 for state universities and 220 for federal universities. However, actual admission cut-offs are often higher due to competition. Aim for 250+ to be competitive.

Do I need to pass Mathematics for Nursing Science?

Yes. Most universities require a credit pass in Mathematics at O'Level, even though Mathematics is not part of the JAMB UTME combination for Nursing. Don't neglect it in your WAEC or NECO preparation.

How can I practise for JAMB Nursing Science?

Use JAMB past questions, take mock exams, and focus on Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Tueri Prep offers subject-specific mocks that simulate the real CBT environment. Sign up at prep.tueri.ng to start practising.

Ready to test your readiness? Take a free mock on Tueri Prep and see exactly where you stand before exam day. Your JAMB score doesn't define you — but consistent practice helps you improve your readiness.