Choosing the right NABTEB subjects for Science students in Nigeria is critical for students aiming to study Medicine, Engineering, Nursing, Pharmacy, Biochemistry, Computer Science, or any Science-related course in university.
With many Science students confused about the correct NABTEB subject combination, this comprehensive guide provides the official recommended subjects, compulsory papers, and the most acceptable combinations that align with JAMB and university admission requirements for 2026.
Compulsory NABTEB Subjects for Science Students
All NABTEB candidates must register for the following compulsory subjects:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Civic Education
These three subjects are mandatory and must be passed at credit level for admission into any Nigerian tertiary institution.
Best NABTEB Subject Combination for Science Students
The recommended NABTEB subject combination for Science students in Nigeria is as follows:
Core Science Subjects (Must be taken)
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Best Overall Subject Combination (9 Subjects)
| Subject | Category | Importance for Science Students |
|---|---|---|
| English Language | Compulsory | Very High |
| Mathematics | Compulsory | Very High |
| Civic Education | Compulsory | High |
| Biology | Core Science | Very High |
| Chemistry | Core Science | Very High |
| Physics | Core Science | Very High |
| Geography | Elective | High |
| Further Mathematics | Elective | High |
| Computer Science / ICT | Elective | High |
This combination is widely accepted by universities for competitive Science courses.
NABTEB Subject Combination for Specific Science Courses
| Intended Course | Best NABTEB Subject Combination |
|---|---|
| Medicine & Surgery / Dentistry | English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Civic Education, Further Mathematics, Geography, Computer Science |
| Nursing / Medical Laboratory Science | English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Civic Education, Geography, Economics, Computer Science |
| Engineering (All fields) | English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Civic Education, Further Mathematics, Computer Science, Geography, Technical Drawing |
| Pharmacy | English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Civic Education, Further Mathematics, Economics |
| Computer Science / Cybersecurity | English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Civic Education, Computer Science, Further Mathematics |
| Biochemistry / Microbiology | English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Civic Education, Further Mathematics, Geography |
| Agricultural Science | English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Civic Education, Agricultural Science, Geography, Animal Science |
Subjects Science Students Should Not Register
Science students should avoid registering for the following subjects:
- Literature-in-English
- Government
- Commerce
- Office Practice
- Financial Accounting
- CRS/IRS
These are mainly for Art and Commercial students and add no value to Science courses.
