JAMB and WAEC Subject Combination for Biochemistry | JAMB CBT EXAM 2025
To access the updated JAMB CBT APP | Software 2025, which includes the latest JAMB novel “The Lekki Headmaster,” click the link below: https://www.examscholars/download.
Studying Biochemistry in Nigeria is a dream for many, but it remains one of the most competitive fields. Although the journey to becoming a Biochemist is challenging, it is achievable if you follow the right steps. One of the key things to get right is selecting the correct subject combination for JAMB and WAEC while also understanding the entry requirements for direct entry.
If you are planning to study Biochemistry, this guide is for you. It provides details on the JAMB and WAEC subject combinations, direct entry qualifications, and some of the top Nigerian universities offering Biochemistry programs.
What is the JAMB Subject Combination for Biochemistry?
The first step towards becoming a Biochemist in Nigeria is registering for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exam. JAMB is a computer-based test designed to evaluate your knowledge in specific subjects.
For Biochemistry, the required JAMB subjects are:
- English Language (compulsory for all students)
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Either Physics or Mathematics
Looking for the perfect app to score over 300 in JAMB? Click the link below to download it now: https://www.examscholars.com/download.
These four subjects are essential for registration and must be taken in the JAMB exam. Scoring between 200 and 280 out of 400 significantly improves your chances of gaining admission. However, keep in mind that different universities may have varying cut-off marks, so it is crucial to check each institution’s specific requirements.
WAEC Subject Combination for Biochemistry
After taking JAMB, you must also fulfill the requirements for your O’level exams, typically conducted by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC). Other exam bodies like NECO, GCE, and NABTEB are also acceptable.
Looking for the perfect app to excel in WAEC? Click the link below to download it now: https://www.examscholars.com/download/waec.
To qualify for admission into a Biochemistry program, you need at least five credits in your O’level exams. The required subjects are:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Physics
Some universities may accept a credit in Agricultural Science in place of Biology, but it is important to verify the specific requirements of the university you are applying to before registering for the UTME.
Biochemistry Duration and Structure
The duration of a Biochemistry program in Nigeria is four (4) years for UTME candidates and three (3) years for direct entry candidates. The program is divided into eight (8) semesters, with each semester lasting approximately 15 weeks.
The courses are grouped into various areas of specialization, such as:
- General Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
- Tissue Biochemistry
- Physical Biochemistry
- Nutritional Biochemistry
- Metabolism
- Plant Biochemistry
- Pharmacological Biochemistry
- Biochemical Methods
- Seminar/Project
Students are required to take courses from these areas according to their university’s curriculum. They must also undergo practical training in laboratories and industrial settings, as well as complete and defend a research project during their final year.
Direct Entry Requirements for Biochemistry in Nigeria 2025/2026
If you have completed higher-level qualifications such as A-Levels, National Diploma (ND), or NCE, you can apply for direct entry into a Biochemistry program. Below are the main qualifications for direct entry:
- A minimum of three (3) A-Level passes in Chemistry, Biology, and either Physics or Mathematics in a single sitting.
- A merit pass or higher in ND or HND in relevant courses, such as Science Laboratory Technology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Chemistry, or Biology from recognized institutions.
- A credit pass or higher in NCE in relevant courses, such as Chemistry, Biology, or Integrated Science from recognized institutions.
- A minimum of nine (9) points in the Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB) examination in relevant subjects, such as Chemistry, Biology, and either Physics or Mathematics.
Direct entry provides a convenient option for students who have completed these programs and wish to skip the UTME process.
Degree-Awarding Institutions Offering Biochemistry
Below are some universities in Nigeria known for their Biochemistry programs:
- Abia State University
- Achievers University
- Adekunle Ajasin University
- Adeleke University
- Afe Babalola University
- Ahmadu Bello University
- Ajayi Crowther University
- Al-Hikmah University
- Ambrose Alli University
- Anambra State University
- Babcock University
- Bauchi State University
- Bayero University Kano
- Bells University of Technology
- Benson Idahosa University
- Bingham University
- Bowen University
- Caleb University
- Caritas University
- Chrisland University
- Covenant University
- Crawford University
- Crescent University
- Cross River State University of Technology
- Delta State University
- Ekiti State University
- Elizade University
- Enugu State University Of Science And Technology
- Evangel University
- Federal University Gashua
- Federal University Gusau
- Federal University Of Agriculture, Makurdi
- Federal University of Technology Akure
- Federal University of Technology Minna
- Federal University of Technology, Owerri
- Federal University, Birnin Kebbi
- Federal University, Dutsin-ma
- Federal University, Lafia
- Federal University, Lokoja
- Federal University, Ndufu-alike
- Federal University, Otuoke
- Federal University, Oye-ekiti
- Federal University, Wukari
- Fountain University
- Godfrey Okoye University
- Gombe State university
- Gregory University, Uturu
- Hallmark University
- Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University
- Imo State University
- Joseph Ayo Babalola University
- Kaduna State university
- Kano University Of Science And Technology
- Kebbi State University Of Science And Technology
- Kings University
- Kogi State University
- Kwara State University
- Lagos State University
- Landmark University
- Lead City University
- Madonna University
- McPherson University
- Michael Okpara University of Agriculture
- Micheal and Cecilia Ibru University
- Modibbo Adama University of Technology
- Mountain Top University
- Nasarawa State University
- Niger Delta University
- Nigerian Police Academy, Wudil, Kano State
- Northwest University, Kano
- Novena University
- Obafemi Awolowo University
- Obong University
- Oduduwa University
- Olabisi Onabanjo University
- Ondo State University of Science and Technology
- Osun State University
- Plateau State University
- Redeemer’s University
- Renaissance University
- Rhema University
- Rivers State University of Science and Technology
- Salem University
- Samuel Adegboyega University
- Sokoto State University
- SouthWestern University
- Tansian University
- Umaru Musa Yar’adua University
- University of Agriculture, Abeokuta
- University of Benin
- University of Ilorin
- University of Lagos
- University of Maiduguri
- University Of Mkar
- University of Nigeria
- University of Port-Harcourt
- Usman Dan Fodio University
- Wesley University Of Science And Technology
- Western Delta University
These institutions maintain high academic standards, but each has unique admission requirements. Always check the specific criteria for your preferred university.
Conclusion
Studying Biochemistry in Nigeria starts with selecting the correct subject combinations for JAMB and WAEC. For JAMB, you will need English Language, Chemistry, Biology, and Physics/Mathematics, while WAEC requires English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, and Physics. If you already have advanced qualifications, direct entry is a great option.
Although the journey to becoming a Biochemist is demanding, with dedication and proper preparation, you can achieve your dream.
Was this post helpful? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!