Are you planning to study Animal Science at a Nigerian university for the 2026/2027 academic session? One of the most important things you need to get right during JAMB UTME registration is your subject combination.
Choosing the wrong UTME subjects can create admission problems even when you obtain a good JAMB score. For this reason, candidates should confirm the requirements for their chosen institution and course before completing their JAMB registration.
For Animal Science, the commonly accepted UTME combination under agriculture-related programmes is:
- Use of English
- Chemistry
- Biology or Agricultural Science
- Physics or Mathematics
However, Animal Science requirements can vary by university and by the way a particular institution structures the programme. JAMB’s official IBASS Eligibility Checker allows candidates to select their institution and programme and check the applicable UTME and O’Level requirements.
This article explains the JAMB subject combination for Animal Science 2026/2027, O’Level requirements, Direct Entry requirements, how to avoid common mistakes, and important things candidates should know before registering for UTME.
What Is Animal Science?
Animal Science is an agricultural and biological discipline concerned with the production, management, nutrition, breeding and general improvement of livestock and other domesticated animals.
Students studying Animal Science may learn about areas such as:
- Animal nutrition
- Livestock production
- Animal breeding
- Animal physiology
- Animal genetics
- Dairy production
- Poultry production
- Pig production
- Ruminant production
- Feed formulation
- Animal management
- Livestock research
- Reproductive management
The course combines agricultural knowledge with biological and chemical principles. This explains why subjects such as Biology, Chemistry and Agricultural Science are important for prospective students.
JAMB Subject Combination for Animal Science 2026/2027
The commonly accepted JAMB UTME subject combination for Animal Science is:
| JAMB Subject | Status |
|---|---|
| Use of English | Compulsory |
| Chemistry | Required |
| Biology or Agricultural Science | One |
| Physics or Mathematics | One |
Therefore, a candidate may register subjects such as:
Use of English + Chemistry + Biology + Physics
or, where accepted by the institution:
Use of English + Chemistry + Agricultural Science + Mathematics
The official JAMB Agriculture brochure shows agriculture-related programmes using combinations built around Chemistry, Biology/Agricultural Science and either Physics or Mathematics, although individual institutions may specify variations.
Important: Check Your University’s Requirement
Although the combination above is widely applicable to Animal Science and related agriculture programmes, candidates should not assume that every university uses exactly the same combination.
JAMB’s official IBASS Eligibility Checker is designed to allow candidates to select their institution, programme, O’Level subjects and UTME subjects before checking eligibility.
This is especially important if you already have a particular university in mind.
Is English Language Compulsory for Animal Science in JAMB?
Yes. Use of English is compulsory in the UTME.
JAMB requires candidates to take Use of English as part of the UTME subject selection, and the official IBASS Eligibility Checker displays English Language as selected by default.
Therefore, an Animal Science candidate should not replace English Language with another subject.
Is Biology Compulsory for Animal Science?
Biology is highly relevant to Animal Science because the programme deals extensively with living organisms, animal anatomy, physiology, genetics, reproduction and nutrition.
However, the Agriculture brochure shows that some agriculture programmes accept Biology/Agricultural Science, depending on the institution’s stated requirements.
Therefore, candidates should check whether their chosen university accepts:
- Biology
- Agricultural Science
- or both
before finalizing their UTME registration.
If you have already selected a university, use the official JAMB IBASS Eligibility Checker to verify the exact requirement.
Is Chemistry Required for Animal Science?
Chemistry is an important subject for Animal Science and is included in the standard agriculture-related combination.
Chemistry is useful because Animal Science students study areas connected with:
- Animal nutrition
- Feed composition
- Digestion
- Metabolism
- Biochemical processes
- Feed formulation
- Minerals and nutrients
The official JAMB Agriculture brochure lists Chemistry alongside Biology/Agricultural Science for agriculture programmes.
Candidates should therefore take Chemistry seriously when preparing for the UTME.
Can I Use Agricultural Science Instead of Biology?
In some institutions, yes.
JAMB’s Agriculture brochure uses Biology/Agricultural Science in the relevant subject requirements for agriculture programmes.
However, the fact that Agricultural Science is accepted for one institution does not automatically mean that every university offering Animal Science will accept exactly the same combination.
Always verify the requirement for the specific university you intend to attend.
Can I Use Mathematics Instead of Physics?
Some agriculture-related programmes allow Mathematics or Physics as the additional science subject.
The JAMB Agriculture brochure contains institution-specific variations where candidates may use Mathematics or Physics as part of the required UTME subjects.
This means candidates should not make assumptions based solely on what another university accepts.
For example, a combination that works for one university may not necessarily satisfy another institution’s requirements.
Recommended JAMB Combination for Animal Science
If your target university accepts the general agriculture combination, a strong option is:
Use of English + Chemistry + Biology + Physics
This combination gives you four major subjects commonly associated with science-based agricultural programmes.
Another combination may be accepted where the institution permits Agricultural Science and Mathematics:
Use of English + Chemistry + Agricultural Science + Mathematics
The most important point is to confirm the exact combination for your institution before submitting your JAMB registration.
O’Level Requirements for Animal Science
Apart from choosing the correct JAMB subjects, candidates must also satisfy the required O’Level subjects.
The Agriculture section of the JAMB brochure generally requires candidates to have credits in relevant subjects including:
- English Language
- Biology/Agricultural Science
- Chemistry
- Mathematics, Physics, Geography or Economics, depending on the institution
The exact O’Level combination can differ between universities.
A candidate should therefore check the institution-specific requirements instead of relying only on a general list.
Typical O’Level Subjects to Prepare For
For Animal Science, candidates should generally expect requirements involving:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Biology or Agricultural Science
- Another relevant science/agricultural subject
Some universities may have additional or different requirements.
Can I Combine WAEC and NECO for Animal Science?
In general, universities may permit candidates to combine O’Level results, but the exact policy depends on the institution and programme.
Some universities may accept two sittings, while others may impose stricter conditions for particular programmes.
Therefore, candidates should check the current admission requirements of their preferred university before assuming that two results will be accepted.
Direct Entry Requirements for Animal Science
Candidates who already possess an acceptable advanced qualification may apply through Direct Entry (DE) instead of starting through UTME.
The JAMB Agriculture brochure lists Direct Entry requirements involving two A-Level passes, including Chemistry and another relevant subject such as Biology, Botany, Zoology, Agricultural Science, Economics, Physics, Geography or related subjects, depending on the programme and institution.
Other qualifications such as ND, NCE or HND may also be considered by particular universities, but the conditions differ.
Direct Entry candidates should therefore check the specific JAMB IBASS requirements for their chosen institution.
What Does an Animal Science Student Study?
Animal Science is broader than simply learning how to rear animals.
Depending on the university and specialization, students may encounter subjects and topics such as:
1. Animal Nutrition
Students learn about the nutrients animals require for proper growth, reproduction and production.
2. Animal Breeding
This area deals with improving desirable characteristics in livestock through appropriate breeding methods.
3. Animal Physiology
Students study how different body systems function in animals.
4. Livestock Production
This involves the management and production of animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and poultry.
5. Animal Genetics
Students learn how characteristics are inherited and how genetics can be applied to livestock improvement.
6. Feed Technology
Students learn about feed ingredients, nutrient requirements and principles involved in preparing suitable animal feeds.
7. Poultry Production
This focuses on the management and production of poultry birds and their products.
These areas demonstrate why a good foundation in Biology, Chemistry and Agricultural Science can be useful for an Animal Science student.
Why You Should Choose the Correct JAMB Subject Combination
Choosing the correct subjects is important because admission is not based on JAMB score alone.
Universities consider several requirements, including:
- UTME subject combination
- JAMB score
- O’Level results
- Institution-specific requirements
- Post-UTME or screening requirements
- Course-specific eligibility
- Admission policies
A candidate with a high UTME score may still experience difficulties if the selected UTME subjects do not satisfy the requirements of the chosen programme.
This is why candidates should verify their eligibility before completing registration.
How to Check the Correct Animal Science Combination on JAMB IBASS
JAMB provides an official Eligibility Checker through IBASS.
You can use it to check the requirements for your specific institution and programme.
Step 1: Open the JAMB Eligibility Checker
Go to the official JAMB Eligibility Checker.
JAMB IBASS Eligibility Checker
Step 2: Select Your Entry Mode
Choose UTME if you are applying through the regular JAMB UTME route.
Step 3: Select Your Institution
Choose the university you want to attend.
Step 4: Select Your Programme
Search for and select Animal Science or the exact related programme offered by the institution.
Step 5: Enter Your O’Level Subjects
Select the credits and passes you have obtained or expect to obtain.
Step 6: Check UTME Subjects
The system allows you to specify your UTME subject combination. English Language is already selected by default.
Step 7: Check Eligibility
Submit the information to determine whether your selected subjects and qualifications satisfy the programme’s requirements.
This is one of the safest ways to avoid relying on outdated admission information.
Common Mistakes Animal Science Aspirants Should Avoid
1. Choosing Subjects Based on Another Student’s Combination
Do not assume that because your friend was admitted with a particular combination, the same combination will automatically work for you.
Admission requirements can vary by university.
2. Ignoring Agricultural Science
Agricultural Science can be relevant to agriculture-based programmes. If your preferred university accepts it, it may be an appropriate subject for Animal Science.
3. Assuming Physics Is Always Compulsory
Physics may be accepted as the additional subject in many agriculture-related combinations, but candidates should verify the exact institutional requirement.
4. Ignoring O’Level Requirements
Getting the JAMB subjects right does not automatically make you eligible. Your WAEC, NECO or NABTEB subjects and grades must also satisfy the university’s requirements.
5. Using an Outdated Subject Combination
Admission requirements can be updated. Avoid relying on an old blog post, social-media comment or advice from a friend without checking the current JAMB information.
6. Focusing Only on JAMB Score
A good JAMB score is important, but admission also depends on course requirements, O’Level results, institutional screening and available admission spaces.
JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Animal Science 2026/2027
There is no single nationwide departmental cut-off mark for Animal Science that guarantees admission into every Nigerian university.
For the 2026 admission exercise, JAMB announced a minimum tolerable score of 150 for university admissions, while individual universities and departments may set higher requirements.
Therefore, scoring 150 does not mean that a candidate is automatically guaranteed admission into Animal Science at every university.
Candidates should check the admission requirements of their preferred institution and monitor its official Post-UTME or screening announcement.
Universities Offering Animal Science in Nigeria
Animal Science and closely related agricultural programmes are offered by various Nigerian universities.
Examples of institutions with Animal Science or related agriculture programmes include:
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
- Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi
- Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- Bayero University Kano (BUK)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Maiduguri
- Federal University Oye-Ekiti
- Other universities with agriculture-related programmes
However, course availability can change, and some institutions may use names such as Animal Production, Animal Production and Health, or related agricultural programme titles.
The JAMB IBASS system should be used to verify whether your preferred institution currently lists the exact programme and what subjects it requires.
Career Opportunities for Animal Science Graduates
An Animal Science degree can provide knowledge useful in several areas of agriculture and livestock production.
Possible career areas include:
- Livestock production
- Poultry management
- Animal feed production
- Animal breeding
- Agricultural extension
- Livestock consultancy
- Agricultural research
- Agribusiness
- Farm management
- Animal nutrition
- Government agricultural agencies
- Feed manufacturing companies
- Agricultural development organizations
- Teaching and education
- Entrepreneurship
Graduates can also develop businesses related to livestock production, feed, poultry and other agricultural activities, subject to applicable regulations and professional requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the JAMB subject combination for Animal Science 2026/2027?
The commonly accepted combination is Use of English, Chemistry, Biology or Agricultural Science, and Physics or Mathematics. However, candidates should verify the exact combination for their chosen university through JAMB IBASS.
Is English compulsory for Animal Science in JAMB?
Yes. Use of English is compulsory in UTME.
Is Chemistry compulsory for Animal Science?
Chemistry is a major subject in the agriculture-related JAMB combination for Animal Science and related programmes.
Can I use Agricultural Science instead of Biology?
Some institutions accept Agricultural Science as an alternative to Biology for agriculture-related programmes. Always confirm your university’s requirement.
Can I use Mathematics instead of Physics?
Some institutions permit Mathematics as the additional subject, while others may specify Physics. Check the institution-specific requirement on JAMB IBASS.
What are the O’Level requirements for Animal Science?
Candidates generally need five relevant O’Level credit passes, including English Language and relevant science/agricultural subjects. The exact combination varies by institution.
Can I study Animal Science without Agricultural Science?
Yes, depending on the university. Some institutions accept Biology instead of Agricultural Science. The important thing is to check the requirement of your preferred institution.
Can I study Animal Science without Physics?
This depends on the institution. Some agriculture programmes allow Mathematics or Physics as the additional subject. Candidates should verify the specific requirement before registration.
Is Animal Science the same as Veterinary Medicine?
No. Animal Science focuses mainly on livestock production, nutrition, breeding, management and related agricultural areas. Veterinary Medicine is a professional medical discipline concerned with diagnosing, preventing and treating diseases and health conditions in animals.
Does Animal Science require Mathematics?
Mathematics is commonly part of the O’Level requirements for agriculture-related programmes, but the exact UTME combination may permit Mathematics or Physics as the additional subject depending on the institution.
How can I confirm my Animal Science JAMB subject combination?
Use the official JAMB IBASS Eligibility Checker and select your institution and programme. The checker allows candidates to review their O’Level and UTME subject eligibility.
Conclusion
If you intend to study Animal Science in the 2026/2027 academic session, do not wait until after JAMB registration to discover that your subjects are unsuitable.
The commonly used combination is:
Use of English + Chemistry + Biology/Agricultural Science + Physics/Mathematics
But the safest approach is to verify the exact combination against your chosen university and programme using JAMB’s official IBASS Eligibility Checker.
Also pay attention to your O’Level subjects, JAMB score, Post-UTME or screening requirements and other admission conditions.
Remember that meeting the subject combination does not automatically guarantee admission. It simply helps ensure that you satisfy one of the important eligibility requirements for consideration.
Before submitting your JAMB registration, double-check your institution, course and UTME subjects. A few minutes of verification can help you avoid an admission problem later.
Quick Summary
| Requirement | Animal Science 2026/2027 |
|---|---|
| UTME Subject 1 | Use of English |
| UTME Subject 2 | Chemistry |
| UTME Subject 3 | Biology or Agricultural Science |
| UTME Subject 4 | Physics or Mathematics |
| O’Level | Relevant credits including English, Mathematics and science/agricultural subjects |
| Direct Entry | Relevant A-Level/ND/NCE/HND qualifications, subject to institution |
| Admission verification | JAMB IBASS Eligibility Checker |
Important: Requirements can vary between universities. Always confirm your specific institution and programme before finalizing your JAMB registration. JAMB’s IBASS Eligibility Checker is the appropriate official tool for this verifications
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