Are you interested in studying Forensic Science at a Nigerian university and preparing for the 2026/2027 admission exercise? One of the first things you need to get right is your JAMB subject combination for Forensic Science.
Choosing the correct UTME subjects is important because your subject combination can determine whether you meet the basic admission requirements for your chosen course and university.
For the 2026/2027 academic session, the JAMB subject combination for Forensic Science is:
Use of English + Biology + Chemistry + Physics or Mathematics.
JAMB’s own publication on Forensic Science states that the required UTME subjects are Use of English, Chemistry, Biology and Physics or Mathematics. The JAMB Science brochure also lists Forensic Science among science programmes and provides the relevant admission requirements.
In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about the JAMB subject combination for Forensic Science 2026/2027, O’Level requirements, Direct Entry requirements, universities offering the course, how to check your eligibility, common mistakes to avoid, and answers to frequently asked questions.
JAMB Subject Combination for Forensic Science 2026/2027
The correct JAMB UTME subject combination for Forensic Science is:
- Use of English
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics or Mathematics
Therefore, candidates applying for Forensic Science should select Use of English, Biology, Chemistry, and either Physics or Mathematics for UTME.
English Language is compulsory in the UTME. JAMB’s IBASS system states that English Language is selected by default when candidates configure their UTME subject combination.
The three core science subjects are therefore:
Biology + Chemistry + Physics/Mathematics
Candidates should still verify their exact institution and programme in the official JAMB IBASS Eligibility Checker before finalizing their registration because universities can have institution-specific requirements or approved waiver conditions. JAMB specifically advises candidates to verify programme and UTME requirements before applying.
What Is Forensic Science?
Forensic Science is the application of scientific methods and techniques to the examination of evidence connected with criminal investigations and legal proceedings.
It combines knowledge from different scientific areas, including:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Laboratory science
- Evidence analysis
- Criminal investigation
Forensic scientists may analyze different types of evidence and provide scientific information that can assist investigations and legal processes.
JAMB describes Forensic Science as an interdisciplinary field involving areas such as biology, chemistry, physics, and criminal justice.
Because the course has a strong scientific foundation, students intending to study it should be comfortable with science subjects, especially Biology and Chemistry.
Correct JAMB Subject Combination for Forensic Science
The four UTME subjects are:
| JAMB Subject | Status |
|---|---|
| Use of English | Compulsory |
| Biology | Core subject |
| Chemistry | Core subject |
| Physics or Mathematics | Choose one |
1. Use of English
Use of English is compulsory for UTME candidates.
JAMB’s IBASS system identifies English Language as a default required subject when candidates select their UTME combination.
You should therefore include Use of English in your four UTME subjects.
2. Biology
Biology is one of the core subjects for Forensic Science.
The course can involve the examination of biological evidence and other biological materials, making Biology an important part of the academic foundation for the programme.
3. Chemistry
Chemistry is also a core subject.
Students studying Forensic Science may encounter areas involving chemical analysis, forensic chemistry, toxicology, and laboratory procedures.
JAMB’s published Forensic Science requirements specifically include Chemistry.
4. Physics or Mathematics
For the fourth UTME science subject, candidates can select Physics or Mathematics, subject to the requirement accepted by their chosen institution.
JAMB’s Forensic Science publication explicitly states Physics or Mathematics as the alternative fourth subject.
If your preferred university has a specific requirement, follow that institution’s approved combination.
Can I Choose Physics Instead of Mathematics for Forensic Science?
Yes, the JAMB requirement for Forensic Science allows Physics or Mathematics as the fourth UTME subject.
The standard combination is therefore:
Use of English + Biology + Chemistry + Physics
or
Use of English + Biology + Chemistry + Mathematics.
However, candidates should not assume that every university will treat the alternatives identically. Always check your preferred institution through JAMB IBASS before registration.
Can I Choose Mathematics Instead of Physics?
Yes. Mathematics is listed as an alternative to Physics for the fourth UTME subject for Forensic Science.
Therefore, a candidate can have:
English + Biology + Chemistry + Mathematics.
Nevertheless, if your preferred university specifically requires Physics, you should choose Physics rather than relying on the general alternative.
This is one of the reasons checking the institution-specific requirement before JAMB registration is important.
Is Biology Compulsory for Forensic Science in JAMB?
Biology is one of the core UTME subjects listed for Forensic Science.
The JAMB publication gives the combination as:
Use of English, Chemistry, Biology, and Physics or Mathematics.
Candidates should therefore not casually replace Biology with another subject.
Is Chemistry Compulsory for Forensic Science?
Yes, Chemistry is one of the core subjects in the JAMB combination for Forensic Science.
Chemistry is particularly relevant to laboratory-based forensic work and scientific analysis.
Candidates should therefore prepare seriously for Chemistry if they intend to study Forensic Science.
Is Physics Compulsory for Forensic Science?
Physics is one of the approved alternatives for the fourth UTME subject.
The standard combination gives candidates a choice between:
Physics or Mathematics.
However, candidates should check their preferred university because institution-specific requirements can affect which alternative is accepted.
O’Level Requirements for Forensic Science
Getting the JAMB combination right is not enough. Candidates must also satisfy the required O’Level conditions.
The JAMB Forensic Science requirements list five SSCE credit passes including:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Physics
These subjects should be obtained according to the applicable university’s sitting requirements.
This means that a candidate should pay close attention to both UTME and O’Level requirements.
Basic O’Level subjects to prepare for include:
English Language + Mathematics + Biology + Chemistry + Physics
Candidates should also check whether their preferred university accepts one or two sittings.
Can I Study Forensic Science With WAEC?
Yes, candidates can use recognized Senior School Certificate Examination results such as WAEC, provided they satisfy the relevant university’s admission requirements.
Your result should contain the required credit passes for the programme.
For Forensic Science, the standard O’Level requirements include English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
If you are still in secondary school, it is therefore important to take all five subjects seriously.
Can I Use NECO for Forensic Science?
A recognized NECO Senior Secondary Certificate result can be used where accepted by the institution.
However, admission requirements can differ between universities, particularly regarding the number of sittings and combinations of results.
Before submitting your application, confirm the requirements for your chosen institution through JAMB IBASS and the university’s official admission information.
Direct Entry Requirements for Forensic Science
Candidates who already possess relevant qualifications may be able to apply through JAMB Direct Entry (DE) rather than the UTME route, subject to the requirements of their chosen institution.
The JAMB Science brochure lists Direct Entry routes for Forensic Science that include relevant A-Level qualifications and other recognized qualifications in related fields. For example, the general Forensic Science information lists two A-Level passes chosen from subjects including Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, and Biology, alongside relevant ND/NCE/HND qualifications where applicable.
However, Direct Entry requirements can vary considerably between institutions.
A candidate applying through DE should therefore verify:
- Required A-Level subjects
- Required grades
- Acceptable ND/HND qualifications
- Whether NCE is accepted
- Required O’Level credits
- Whether UTME requirements must also be satisfied
Universities Offering Forensic Science in Nigeria
Forensic Science is offered by a number of Nigerian universities and institutions.
The JAMB Science brochure lists institutions associated with the programme, including:
- Admiralty University
- Ave Maria University
- Bayero University
- Chrisland University
- Federal University of Technology, Owerri
- Hensard University
- Hillside University
- Huda University
- Khairun University
- Lead City University
The JAMB brochure should be treated as the authoritative reference for the institutions and programme requirements applicable to the relevant admission cycle.
Some institutions may also use a slightly different programme structure or title, so candidates should confirm the exact programme name before making their choice.
Is Forensic Science a Science Course?
Yes.
Forensic Science is a science-based programme.
It draws from several scientific disciplines, particularly:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Laboratory science
This explains why the UTME combination contains Biology and Chemistry with Physics or Mathematics.
Students who enjoy science subjects and are interested in applying scientific knowledge to investigations may find the course appealing.
What Do Forensic Science Students Study?
The exact curriculum varies between universities, but students may encounter areas related to:
- Forensic Biology
- Forensic Chemistry
- DNA analysis
- Toxicology
- Evidence examination
- Laboratory techniques
- Crime scene investigation
- Scientific methods
- Forensic anthropology
- Digital or cyber forensics
- Criminal justice
- Analytical science
The field is interdisciplinary, which means students may combine scientific knowledge with investigative and legal concepts.
JAMB’s career information on Forensic Science highlights areas such as forensic scientist/technician, crime scene investigation, forensic pathology, forensic anthropology, forensic chemistry, and digital forensic analysis.
Why Biology Is Important in Forensic Science
Biology is important because some forensic investigations involve biological evidence.
Students may study concepts related to:
- Biological samples
- DNA
- Human biology
- Genetics
- Identification
- Biological analysis
A good understanding of Biology can therefore help students understand how biological evidence is examined.
Why Chemistry Is Important in Forensic Science
Chemistry plays an important role in laboratory analysis.
It can be applied to areas such as:
- Chemical identification
- Toxicology
- Forensic chemistry
- Substance analysis
- Laboratory testing
This is one reason Chemistry is a core UTME subject for Forensic Science.
Why Physics or Mathematics Is Required
Physics and Mathematics provide quantitative and analytical skills that can be useful in scientific investigation.
Physics can be relevant to areas involving physical evidence and scientific measurement, while Mathematics can support calculations, data interpretation, statistics, and analytical reasoning.
The JAMB requirement allows candidates to use either Physics or Mathematics as the fourth UTME subject.
How to Check Your Forensic Science JAMB Requirements
The safest way to verify your admission eligibility is to use the official JAMB IBASS Eligibility Checker.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Open the JAMB Eligibility Checker
Use the official JAMB IBASS Eligibility Checker.
Step 2: Select UTME
Choose UTME as your entry mode if you are applying through the regular JAMB examination.
Step 3: Select your institution
Choose the university you intend to attend.
Step 4: Select Forensic Science
Choose Forensic Science from the available programmes.
Step 5: Enter your O’Level subjects
Provide the subjects and grades you have.
Step 6: Check the UTME combination
The system will display the relevant subject requirements for the selected programme and institution.
Step 7: Confirm your eligibility
Review the result before completing your admission application.
JAMB states that its IBASS Eligibility Checker provides candidates with available programmes and the applicable UTME subject combinations and advises candidates to verify requirements before applying.
What JAMB Score Do I Need to Study Forensic Science?
There is no single JAMB score that guarantees admission into Forensic Science in every Nigerian university.
For the 2026 admission exercise, JAMB’s approved minimum tolerable admission score for universities is 150. However, individual institutions can have higher requirements.
Therefore, scoring 150 does not automatically mean that you will gain admission to Forensic Science.
Your admission chances can also depend on:
- Your chosen university
- Your UTME score
- O’Level results
- Post-UTME or screening performance
- Number of available spaces
- Institutional admission policy
- Competition for the programme
For this reason, candidates should aim for a strong UTME score rather than simply targeting the national minimum.
How to Prepare for JAMB Forensic Science
If you have chosen Forensic Science, you should begin preparing early for your four UTME subjects.
1. Study Biology regularly
Revise major Biology concepts and practice objective questions.
2. Take Chemistry seriously
Understand chemical principles rather than relying entirely on memorization.
3. Practice Mathematics or Physics
Whichever fourth subject you select, make sure you understand the syllabus and practice questions regularly.
4. Improve your English
Use of English is compulsory, so do not neglect it simply because Forensic Science is a science course.
5. Use the JAMB syllabus
Study according to the current JAMB syllabus rather than randomly reading topics.
6. Practice CBT questions
Regular computer-based practice can help you become comfortable with answering questions under examination conditions.
7. Check your mistakes
After practicing questions, review the ones you got wrong and understand why.
Common Mistakes Forensic Science Aspirants Should Avoid
Mistake 1: Choosing four science subjects and leaving out English
English Language is compulsory in the UTME.
Mistake 2: Replacing Biology without checking
Biology is a core subject in the Forensic Science combination.
Mistake 3: Assuming Physics is always compulsory
The general JAMB combination allows Physics or Mathematics as the fourth subject, but institution-specific requirements should be checked.
Mistake 4: Ignoring Chemistry
Chemistry is a core UTME subject for Forensic Science.
Mistake 5: Checking only JAMB subjects
Candidates must also satisfy the required O’Level subjects and grades.
Mistake 6: Trusting old admission information
Admission requirements can change. Always check the current JAMB IBASS information and your university’s latest admission notice.
JAMB Subject Combination for Forensic Science vs O’Level Requirements
It is important to understand the difference.
JAMB UTME combination:
Use of English + Biology + Chemistry + Physics or Mathematics
O’Level requirements:
English Language + Mathematics + Biology + Chemistry + Physics
The two lists are not identical.
For example, Mathematics is part of the standard O’Level requirement, while in the UTME combination it is an alternative to Physics.
JAMB’s published Forensic Science information makes this distinction clear.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the JAMB subject combination for Forensic Science 2026/2027?
The combination is Use of English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics.
Is English compulsory for Forensic Science?
Yes. English Language is compulsory in the UTME and is selected by default in JAMB’s IBASS subject-combination system.
Is Biology compulsory for Forensic Science?
Yes. Biology is one of the core subjects in the JAMB combination.
Is Chemistry compulsory for Forensic Science?
Yes. Chemistry is a core UTME subject for the programme.
Can I use Mathematics instead of Physics?
Yes. The general JAMB combination lists Physics or Mathematics as the fourth subject. However, check your chosen university for any institution-specific condition.
Can I use Physics instead of Mathematics?
Yes. Physics is the other approved alternative for the fourth UTME subject.
What are the O’Level requirements for Forensic Science?
The standard requirements include five SSCE credits in English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, and Physics, subject to the specific institution’s conditions.
What is the JAMB cutoff mark for Forensic Science?
There is no single nationwide course-specific cutoff for every university. JAMB’s 2026 national minimum tolerable score for universities is 150, while individual universities may set higher requirements.
Can I study Forensic Science through Direct Entry?
Yes, where the institution offers the DE route and you meet its specific requirements. JAMB’s Science brochure includes Direct Entry requirements for the programme.
Where can I verify my Forensic Science subject combination?
Use the official JAMB IBASS Eligibility Checker and select your preferred institution and programme. JAMB advises candidates to verify requirements before applying.
Conclusion
The correct JAMB Subject Combination for Forensic Science 2026/2027 is:
Use of English + Biology + Chemistry + Physics or Mathematics.
Biology and Chemistry are core subjects, while Physics or Mathematics can serve as the fourth subject under the general JAMB requirement.
Candidates should also remember that the UTME combination is only one part of the admission process. You must meet the required O’Level conditions, satisfy your chosen university’s admission requirements, and meet any additional screening conditions imposed by the institution.
For the 2026 admission exercise, JAMB has approved 150 as the minimum tolerable admission score for universities, but universities can set higher requirements. Therefore, candidates should aim for the best JAMB score possible rather than relying on the national minimum.
Before completing your JAMB registration, use the official JAMB IBASS Eligibility Checker to select your institution and Forensic Science programme and confirm the applicable requirements. This is particularly important because admission requirements and institutional conditions can differ.
If you are serious about studying Forensic Science, start preparing early, pay special attention to Biology and Chemistry, practice your fourth UTME subject consistently, and do not neglect Use of English.
Getting your subject combination correct is an important first step toward achieving your goal of studying Forensic Science in Nigeria in the 2026/2027 academic session.
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