Are you planning to study Biochemistry in a Nigerian university for the 2026/2027 academic session? One of the first things you need to get right is your JAMB and WAEC subject combination.
Biochemistry is a science-based course that combines Biology and Chemistry and involves the study of chemical processes in living organisms. Because of the nature of the course, universities generally require candidates to have good results in relevant science subjects.
Choosing the wrong JAMB subjects or failing to obtain the required O’Level credits can affect your admission chances. It is therefore important to know the requirements before registering for UTME.
In this article, you will find the JAMB subject combination for Biochemistry 2026/2027, WAEC requirements, important O’Level subjects, JAMB score information, Direct Entry requirements, and answers to common questions.
Important: Admission requirements can vary from one university to another. JAMB’s IBASS Eligibility Checker allows candidates to select their institution, programme, O’Level subjects and UTME combination to check eligibility. Always confirm the requirement for your preferred university before registration.
What Is Biochemistry?
Biochemistry is the study of the chemical substances and processes that take place in living organisms.
The course combines concepts from Biology and Chemistry and may cover areas such as:
- Molecular biology
- Cell biology
- Genetics
- Enzymology
- Metabolism
- Biotechnology
- Microbiology
- Nutrition
- Immunology
- Pharmaceutical research
Students who enjoy Biology, Chemistry, laboratory work and scientific research may find Biochemistry a suitable course.
JAMB Subject Combination for Biochemistry 2026/2027
The general JAMB UTME subject combination for Biochemistry is:
Use of English + Biology + Chemistry + Physics
Therefore, candidates who want to study Biochemistry should select:
- Use of English
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
However, candidates should understand that some universities may provide slightly different alternatives. For example, the current admission requirements of Ambrose Alli University list the UME subjects for Biochemistry as English Language, Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics.
Similarly, some institutions may accept Physics or Mathematics as an alternative depending on their programme requirements. This is why checking JAMB IBASS for your particular institution is essential.
The safest general combination
For most candidates, the safest general combination to prepare for is:
English Language, Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
This combination gives candidates the standard science subjects commonly associated with Biochemistry admission.
Why Biology Is Important for Biochemistry
Biology is a major subject for anyone interested in studying Biochemistry.
Biochemistry deals with biological processes at the molecular and cellular levels. Students therefore need a good understanding of living organisms before entering the university.
Secondary-school Biology provides a foundation for topics such as:
- Cells
- Tissues
- Genetics
- Nutrition
- Reproduction
- Enzymes
- Microorganisms
- Metabolism
- Human physiology
Students should therefore take Biology seriously when preparing for JAMB.
Why Chemistry Is Important for Biochemistry
Chemistry is another extremely important subject for Biochemistry.
The course involves the study of chemical reactions and molecules found in living organisms. At university level, students may study proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, enzymes, nucleic acids and other biochemical substances.
A strong Chemistry background can make it easier to understand university Biochemistry.
Important areas to study include:
- Atomic structure
- Chemical bonding
- Organic chemistry
- Acids and bases
- Chemical reactions
- Stoichiometry
- Equilibrium
- Energy changes
- Hydrocarbons
- Functional groups
Candidates should not study Chemistry merely because it is required for admission. It is also an important foundation for the course itself.
Why Physics Is Important for Biochemistry
Physics is part of the standard JAMB combination for Biochemistry in many universities.
Although Biochemistry focuses mainly on Biology and Chemistry, Physics helps students develop scientific and analytical skills.
It can help students develop:
- Logical thinking
- Problem-solving skills
- Quantitative reasoning
- Measurement skills
- Scientific analysis
Physics may also be useful in laboratory applications and other areas of scientific research.
Is Mathematics Required for Biochemistry?
Yes, Mathematics is generally an important O’Level requirement for Biochemistry.
Although Mathematics is not normally one of the four standard UTME subjects for Biochemistry, candidates should make sure they have the required Mathematics credit in their WAEC, NECO or equivalent result.
For example, the Federal University Lokoja lists Biochemistry as requiring five O’Level credit passes including English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Biology. Its UTME combination is English Language, Biology, Chemistry and Physics/Mathematics.
Other universities may use slightly different wording, so candidates should check the specific institution.
WAEC Subject Combination for Biochemistry 2026/2027
The safest WAEC subject combination for a candidate intending to study Biochemistry is:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
These five subjects cover the major requirements commonly requested for Biochemistry.
For example, the Federal University Lokoja currently lists five O’Level credits for Biochemistry in English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Biology.
The University of P.M.B. also lists five relevant O’Level credits including Physics, Chemistry, Biology, English Language and Mathematics for its admission requirements.
WAEC requirements at a glance
| Subject | Importance |
|---|---|
| English Language | Required |
| Mathematics | Required |
| Biology | Required |
| Chemistry | Required |
| Physics | Required or commonly required |
Having credits in all five subjects gives candidates a strong foundation for applying to Biochemistry programmes.
Can I Study Biochemistry Without Physics?
You should not assume that you can.
Physics is included in the general UTME combination for Biochemistry and is commonly required at O’Level.
However, individual universities may have alternatives. For example, some institutions specify Physics or Mathematics in their UTME requirements.
If your O’Level result does not contain Physics, check your chosen university’s current requirements before applying.
Can I Study Biochemistry Without Biology?
Biology is one of the major subjects for Biochemistry and is part of the general UTME combination.
It is also commonly required at O’Level.
Some universities may permit a specified alternative such as Agricultural Science, but candidates should not assume that every institution accepts such an alternative.
If you are still preparing for WAEC, Biology is strongly recommended for anyone planning to study Biochemistry.
Is Chemistry Compulsory for Biochemistry?
Chemistry is a core subject for Biochemistry.
It is part of the standard UTME combination:
English Language + Biology + Chemistry + Physics
It is also commonly required at O’Level.
Students should therefore devote enough time to Chemistry during both JAMB and WAEC preparation.
Is Computer Studies Required for Biochemistry?
Computer Studies or Computer Science is generally not a core admission requirement for Biochemistry.
However, computer skills can be useful to Biochemistry students because modern scientific research involves computers, data analysis, digital laboratory systems and research databases.
Candidates should still prioritize the subjects required by their chosen university.
Is Further Mathematics Compulsory for Biochemistry?
Further Mathematics is generally not compulsory for Biochemistry.
Ordinary Mathematics is the important O’Level subject candidates should ensure they have.
Further Mathematics may be useful for developing analytical and mathematical skills, but it should not be used as a replacement for a compulsory subject unless the university specifically permits it.
How Many O’Level Credits Do I Need for Biochemistry?
Most universities require five relevant O’Level credit passes for admission into Biochemistry.
A common combination is:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
For example, Federal University Lokoja specifies five credits in these subjects and allows them in not more than two sittings.
However, some universities may have one-sitting requirements or allow particular alternatives.
Candidates should therefore check their institution before assuming that a particular combination or number of sittings will be accepted.
Can I Combine Two WAEC Results?
This depends on the university.
Some institutions accept two O’Level sittings, while others may require certain programmes to have the required credits in one sitting.
For example, Federal University Lokoja allows its listed Biochemistry O’Level requirements in not more than two sittings.
Candidates with two results should therefore check their preferred university’s admission requirements before applying.
JAMB Score Required to Study Biochemistry
There is no single JAMB score that guarantees admission into Biochemistry in every Nigerian university.
The national minimum tolerable admission score for universities for the 2026 admission cycle is 150, but this should not be regarded as the departmental cut-off mark for Biochemistry.
Individual universities can set higher requirements based on their admission policies and the competitiveness of the programme.
Your admission chances can depend on:
- JAMB score
- O’Level results
- Post-UTME performance where applicable
- Number of applicants
- Available admission spaces
- University admission policy
Therefore, candidates should aim for a strong JAMB score instead of simply targeting the national minimum.
Difference Between JAMB and WAEC Requirements for Biochemistry
The JAMB and WAEC combinations are not exactly the same.
JAMB
The general combination is:
Use of English + Biology + Chemistry + Physics
WAEC
The safest general five subjects are:
English Language + Mathematics + Biology + Chemistry + Physics
The major difference is Mathematics.
Mathematics is generally an important O’Level requirement even though it is not normally included among the four standard UTME subjects for Biochemistry.
Biochemistry JAMB and WAEC Combination Summary
| Category | Subjects |
|---|---|
| JAMB Subject 1 | Use of English |
| JAMB Subject 2 | Biology |
| JAMB Subject 3 | Chemistry |
| JAMB Subject 4 | Physics |
| WAEC Subject 1 | English Language |
| WAEC Subject 2 | Mathematics |
| WAEC Subject 3 | Biology |
| WAEC Subject 4 | Chemistry |
| WAEC Subject 5 | Physics |
This is the safest general combination for candidates planning to study Biochemistry.
However, always confirm the exact requirement for your institution using JAMB IBASS.
Direct Entry Requirements for Biochemistry
Candidates applying through Direct Entry should check the requirements separately because Direct Entry requirements are different from regular UTME requirements.
Depending on the institution, acceptable qualifications may include relevant:
- A-Level qualifications
- National Diploma
- Higher National Diploma
- NCE
- Other approved qualifications
For example, Trinity University currently lists two A-Level passes in Biology and Chemistry among its Direct Entry requirements for Biochemistry and also provides routes for certain related science qualifications.
The exact qualification and grade required can differ, so Direct Entry candidates should check JAMB IBASS and their university’s current admission notice.
How to Prepare for JAMB Biochemistry
Getting the correct subject combination is only the beginning. You also need to prepare properly.
1. Study the JAMB syllabus
Use the syllabus to identify the areas you need to cover.
2. Focus on Chemistry
Chemistry is central to Biochemistry, so develop a strong understanding of the subject.
3. Practise Biology
Revise biological processes and solve objective questions regularly.
4. Improve your Physics
Understand concepts and practise calculations rather than relying entirely on memorisation.
5. Take English seriously
Use of English is compulsory in UTME, regardless of your chosen course.
6. Practise past questions
Past questions can help you become familiar with the examination format and improve your speed.
7. Check your eligibility
Before finalizing your JAMB choices, use the official JAMB Eligibility Checker to confirm that your O’Level and UTME subjects match your chosen programme.
Common Mistakes Biochemistry Candidates Should Avoid
Choosing the wrong UTME subjects
Do not select subjects based on what your friends are choosing. Your combination should match your intended programme.
Ignoring Mathematics
Even though Mathematics is not usually one of the four UTME subjects for Biochemistry, it is commonly required at O’Level.
Assuming all universities have identical requirements
Universities can have different requirements and alternatives.
Targeting only the minimum JAMB score
Meeting the national minimum does not guarantee admission into a competitive programme.
Waiting until after JAMB to check requirements
Check your eligibility before registration.
Ignoring your O’Level result
Your WAEC, NECO or equivalent result is an important part of your admission requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the JAMB subject combination for Biochemistry 2026/2027?
The general combination is Use of English, Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
What are the WAEC subjects for Biochemistry?
The safest general combination is English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Is Mathematics compulsory for Biochemistry?
Mathematics is generally required at O’Level, although it is not normally one of the four standard UTME subjects.
Is Biology compulsory for Biochemistry?
Biology is a core subject for Biochemistry and is included in the standard UTME combination.
Is Chemistry compulsory for Biochemistry?
Yes. Chemistry is one of the most important subjects for Biochemistry and is included in the standard UTME combination.
Is Physics required for Biochemistry?
Physics is included in the general UTME combination and is commonly required at O’Level.
Can I study Biochemistry without Computer Studies?
Yes. Computer Studies is generally not a core admission requirement for Biochemistry.
Can I combine two WAEC results?
Some universities allow two sittings while others have stricter rules. Check your chosen institution.
What JAMB score do I need for Biochemistry?
There is no universal departmental score. A university can set its own requirements, so candidates should aim for a strong UTME score.
Conclusion
Getting the correct subject combination is one of the most important steps toward studying Biochemistry in the 2026/2027 academic session.
The general JAMB combination is:
Use of English + Biology + Chemistry + Physics
For WAEC or another recognized O’Level qualification, the safest combination is:
English Language + Mathematics + Biology + Chemistry + Physics
These subjects provide a strong foundation for Biochemistry and satisfy the requirements commonly published by Nigerian universities.
However, candidates should remember that admission requirements can differ between institutions. Current university requirements demonstrate that some schools allow specific alternatives in their UTME or O’Level combinations.
Before registering for JAMB, use the official JAMB IBASS Eligibility Checker to confirm the exact requirements for your chosen university and programme.
If Biochemistry is your dream course, start preparing early, take Biology and Chemistry seriously, strengthen your Mathematics and Physics, and aim for a strong JAMB score.
Getting your subjects right from the beginning can help you avoid unnecessary admission problems later.
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