If you are planning to study Optometry in Nigeria, one of the most important steps is making sure you choose the correct subject combination for Optometry in your JAMB UTME. Many students make the mistake of picking the wrong subjects, which can cost them admission, even if they score high marks. In this post, we will walk you through the exact JAMB subject combination for Optometry, the requirements for different universities, and tips to improve your chances of getting admitted in the 2026/2027 academic session.
JAMB Subject Combination for Optometry 2026
To study Optometry in any Nigerian university, the approved JAMB subject combination is:
- English Language (compulsory for all candidates)
- Physics
- Biology
- Chemistry
O’Level Requirements for Optometry
In addition to your JAMB subject combination, your WAEC/NECO/NABTEB results must include at least five (5) credits in:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Direct Entry Requirements for Optomery
To be eligible for Direct Entry into an Optometry program, you must have one or more of the following:
- Two (2) A-Level passes in science subjects: Biology/Zoology, Physics, and/or Chemistry.
- NCE (National Certificate in Education) with at least merit in relevant science subjects.
- OND or HND (Ordinary or Higher National Diploma) in disciplines like Science Laboratory Technology, Biomedical Science, or related fields, usually with upper credit.
Duration to Study Optometry
The duration to study Optometry in Nigeria is six (6) years for students entering through the JAMB UTME route. This includes:
- Five (5) years of academic and clinical training at the university level
- One (1) year of mandatory internship in an approved clinical or hospital setting
For candidates entering through Direct Entry (DE), the duration may be reduced to five (5) years, depending on the university and your prior qualifications. However, the final year of clinical internship remains compulsory for all graduates.
Top Universities to Study Optometry in Nigeria 2026
| S/N | Nigerian Universities to Study Optometry |
| 1 | Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) |
| 2 | University of Lagos (UNILAG) |
| 3 | University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) |
| 4 | Imo State University (IMSU) |
| 5 | University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) |
| 6 | Bayero University Kano (BUK) |
| 7 | Madonna University, Elele |
| 8 | University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) |
| 9 | Abia State University (ABSU) |
| 10 | University of Benin (UNIBEN) |
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Mathematics is not accepted as a substitute for Physics or Chemistry in the JAMB subject combination for Optometry. You must have Biology, Physics, and Chemistry alongside English Language.
Yes, Mathematics is required at the O’Level. You must have at least five (5) credit passes in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
Yes, many universities accept Direct Entry (DE) candidates into 200 level for Optometry, provided you have the relevant A-Level passes, OND, HND, NCE, or a BSc in a related field such as Biology, Anatomy, or Physiology
Yes, many universities accept two sittings for O’Level results. However, some top universities may prefer or strictly require one sitting, especially for competitive courses like Optometry. Check the specific university’s requirements.
Yes, most Nigerian universities accept combined results from WAEC and NECO, provided all required subjects are present and passed with credit grades.
