If you are planning to study Botany at a Nigerian university, it is important to know the correct JAMB subject combination to avoid any issues during the admission process. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has outlined specific subject requirements for each course, and meeting these requirements is a key step toward securing your admission. In this post, we will walk you through the approved JAMB subject combination for Botany for the 2026/2027 academic session. Whether you are just beginning your UTME registration or double-checking your choices, this guide is here to help you make the right decision.
JAMB Subject Combination for Botany 2026
The following subjects has been confirmed by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board to be the correct subject combinations for Botany:
- English Language
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics or Mathematics
Note that some universities may accept Geography instead of Physics or Mathematics for Botany. It is important for candidates to check the specific admission requirements of their chosen school to be sure.
O’Level Requirements for Botany
Candidates must have at least five (5) credit passes in their O’Level results, including:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Any one from Physics, Geography, Agricultural Science, or Further Mathematics
Direct Entry Requirements for Botany
As a direct entry candidate, you are eligible if you have any of the following qualifications:
- A-Level passes in Biology, Chemistry, and either Physics or Mathematics.
- OND, HND, or NCE in relevant science-related courses.
- A recognised B.Sc. degree in a related field, which may qualify you for advanced placement.
Duration of the Botany Program 2026
For UTME Candidates: You will be awarded a Bachelor’s Degree in Botany after completing the full 4-year course.
For Direct Entry Candidates: Since you will be starting from 200 level, it will typically take you about 3 years to complete the program, depending on their qualifications.
Top Nigerian Universities Offering Botany 2026
| S/N | Nigerian Universities to Study Botany |
|---|---|
| 1 | Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) |
| 2 | University of Benin (UNIBEN) |
| 3 | University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) |
| 4 | University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) |
| 5 | University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) |
| 6 | University of Ibadan (UI) |
| 7 | Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife |
| 8 | Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) |
| 9 | University of Lagos (UNILAG) |
| 10 | Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No. Biology is a core requirement for Botany. Agricultural Science is not accepted in place of Biology.
Mathematics is not compulsory but can be used as an alternative to Physics as the fourth subject. However, Biology and Chemistry must be included.
Yes, some universities accept candidates without Physics as long as the other required subjects are complete. However, Physics is still useful and may be required by certain institutions.
180–220 is generally acceptable. Competitive universities may set higher marks, especially if they receive a large number of applicants.
Yes, there is. Botany is the general study of plants, while Plant Science focuses more on plant genetics, biotechnology, and crop production.
Choosing the right subject combination and understanding your course requirements is the first step toward a successful university admission. If Botany is your passion, ensure you are well-prepared and meet all the criteria set by your chosen institution.
