JAMB Subject Combination for Cybersecurity 2026 & O’Level Requirements (Full Guide)
JAMB Subject Combination for Cybersecurity 2026 & O’Level Requirements (Full Guide)
Let’s be honest for a second. Everyone wants to be a “tech bro” or “tech sis” right now. The idea of stopping hackers, protecting data, and earning a fat salary is attractive. But before you start dreaming of working remotely for a US company from your room in Lagos or Abuja, you have a hurdle to cross.
That hurdle is getting admitted.
A lot of bright students mess up their admission not because they aren’t smart, but because they chose the wrong subjects during registration. You don’t want to be that student who scores 280 but gets rejected because they didn’t write Physics. To help you avoid that “had I known” feeling, here is the correct JAMB Subject Combination for cybersecurity 2026.
The Core JAMB Subject Combination for Cybersecurity 2026
Straight to the point. If you are filling out your form, these are the four subjects you need to pick. No gambling.
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Use of English (Compulsory for everyone).
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Mathematics (You cannot dodge this; Cybersecurity is math-heavy).
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Physics (This is the backbone of computer hardware and signals).
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Biology, Chemistry, or Economics (This depends on the school, but Science students usually pick Chemistry or Biology).
My Advice? Stick to the “Safe 4”: English, Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.
Why this specific combo? Most federal and state universities in Nigeria are strict. While a few private universities might accept Economics instead of Chemistry, federal schools like FUTA or UNILORIN generally prefer the pure science route. If you are still figuring out the basics of registration, check out the price of JAMB form 2026 official cost breakdown registration guide so you can budget properly.
O’Level Requirements (WAEC/NECO): The “Must-Haves”
Your JAMB score is only half the battle. If your WAEC result is shaky, your 300 in JAMB won’t save you.
For Cybersecurity, you need at least 5 Credit passes in your O’Level result (WAEC, NECO, or GCE) in not more than two sittings.
Here are the compulsory credits:
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English Language
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Mathematics
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Physics
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Chemistry
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Biology or Agricultural Science
Notice something? It’s almost identical to the requirements for Computer Science. That’s because Cybersecurity is essentially a specialized branch of Computer Science.
Why This Combination Matters
You might be wondering, “Why do I need Chemistry to stop hackers?”
It’s about how universities classify the course. In Nigeria, Cybersecurity falls under the Faculty of Science or the School of Computing. This means the academic foundation is scientific. It’s not just about coding; it’s about understanding logic, systems, and signals.
If you struggle with Biology, don’t worry too much. It’s mostly for the O’Level requirement. However, for JAMB, if you choose Biology as your fourth subject, you need to be prepared. We actually broke down the JAMB syllabus 2026 for Biology topics you must read to score high in another guide. It’s worth a look if that’s your elective.
Top Nigerian Universities Offering Cybersecurity
Not every school offers this course yet. It’s relatively new in the Nigerian university curriculum. Here are some top contenders you should consider:
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Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) – Very competitive.
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Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) – Known for tech.
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University of Ilorin (UNILORIN).
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Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Kaduna.
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Covenant University (If you have the budget).
Always double-check the specific requirement for your preferred school using the Official JAMB IBASS Brochure. It’s the only place to get the 100% official confirmation for school-specific waivers.
Real Talk: How Competitive is it?
I won’t lie to you—it’s tough.
Because “Cybersecurity” sounds cool and modern, thousands of students are rushing it. This means the cut-off marks are skyrocketing. A score of 200 is technically a “pass,” but it likely won’t get you admitted into a school like FUTA or UNILORIN for this course.
Target 250 and above.
If you are aiming for a top federal school, you need to be hitting high numbers in Math and Physics. Start practicing past questions now. Don’t wait until the JAMB registration starting date 2026 official timeline deadline approaches before you start reading. The earlier, the better.
Common Mistakes That Cost Students Admission
I’ve seen too many smart students stay at home for an extra year because of simple errors. Here is how to avoid them:
1. Wrong Subject Combination Some students pick “Computer Studies” in JAMB because they want to study Cybersecurity. Don’t do this. Most universities do not accept Computer Studies as a JAMB subject for admission yet. Stick to Math, Physics, and Chemistry.
2. Relying on “Awaiting Result” Without Uploading You can register with awaiting results, but you must upload them immediately after they are out. If you forget this step, you lose the admission.
3. Ignoring the Profile Code Issues Technical issues happen. Sometimes your NIN doesn’t link, or the code doesn’t generate. If you face this, don’t panic. We have a guide on JAMB registration issues and solutions fix profile code NIN errors fast that walks you through the fix.
Wrapping Up
Getting into Cybersecurity in 2026 is totally possible, but you have to be deliberate. Don’t just follow the crowd. Pick the right subjects—English, Math, Physics, Chemistry—and study hard to smash that cut-off mark.
Also, keep your eyes open for university updates. Admissions processes change, and staying informed is your best weapon. You can check the official JAMB website regularly for press releases and updates.
What school are you aiming for? Are you scared of the Physics aspect? Drop a comment below let’s talk about it. I reply to everyone!
