One of the most common mistakes JAMB candidates make is choosing the wrong subject combination for their desired course. With UTME 2026/2027 registration set to begin, it is important to get things right from the start. If you are an aspiring Chemical Engineering student, now is the perfect time to double-check the correct subject combination and other essential admission requirements. Making the right choices during registration can save you from unnecessary setbacks later.
JAMB Subject Combination for Chemical Engineering 2026
For you to gain admission into Chemical Engineering, you must register for the following four subjects in your JAMB UTME:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
O’Level Requirements for Chemical Engineering
As a Chemical Engineering aspirant, gaining admission through JAMB requires meeting all necessary requirements. One of the key criteria is having a minimum of five (5) credit passes in your SSCE—this could be WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, GCE, or any other recognised equivalent. These credit passes must include the following subjects:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- One other Science subject (e.g., Biology, Further Mathematics, or Technical Drawing).
Qualifications for Direct Entry Candidates
Candidates applying through direct entry should ensure that they meet any of the following requirements:
- A-Level: Passes in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.
- ND or HND: A diploma in a related engineering or science discipline with a good grade.
- B.Sc.: A first degree in a related science or engineering field can also be accepted.
Duration of Chemical Engineering Program 2026
The Chemical Engineering program typically spans five (5) years, culminating in the award of a Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.) degree. After graduation, students usually proceed to internships or participate in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, or sometimes both, before fully entering the workforce or pursuing further studies.
Top Universities Offering Chemical Engineering in Nigeria 2026
| S/N | Nigerian Universities to Study Chemical Engineering |
| 1 | Niger Delta University (NDU), Wilberforce Island |
| 2 | University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) |
| 3 | University of Benin (UNIBEN) |
| 4 | University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) |
| 5 | Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife |
| 6 | University of Uyo (UNIUYO) |
| 7 | University of Lagos (UNILAG) |
| 8 | University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) |
| 9 | Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) |
| 10 | Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No, Chemistry is a core subject for Chemical Engineering, both in UTME and O’Level. Without it, you would not meet the basic requirements for the course.
Yes, most universities in Nigeria accept two sittings for O’Level results. However, it is best to check the specific requirements of the university you are applying to, as policies may differ.
No, Chemical Engineering is a science-based course, so you must have a science background in secondary school and relevant science subjects in your O’Level and UTME.
The cut-off mark is 220 and above, depending on competition and departmental quotas
Yes, most universities require you to sit for their Post-UTME screening after JAMB. The format and subjects usually align with your UTME combination.
No, it is not compulsory, but it is highly recommended and gives you an advantage—especially for schools that prioritize strong mathematical backgrounds.
Yes, many universities accept combined results (e.g., WAEC + NECO) as long as the required subjects are present and passed at credit level.
