2026 JAMB Syllabus Guide: Complete Subject Topics, Tips & Strategies for UTME Success

1. Introduction to JAMB 2026

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for 2026 is a computer-based test that assesses candidates seeking admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions. The examination consists of four subjects, with Use of English being compulsory for all candidates.

Key Facts:

• Examination Format: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
• Number of Subjects: Four (4) – Use of English plus three others
• Total Score: 400 marks (100 marks per subject)
• Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes)
• Questions per Subject: 40-60 questions depending on the subject

---

2. Use of English Language (Compulsory)

Topics and Subtopics

A. Comprehension/Summary

• Reading passages for main ideas and supporting details
• Summarizing lengthy texts
• Drawing inferences and conclusions
• Identifying author’s purpose and tone

B. Lexis and Structure

• Vocabulary development (synonyms, antonyms, homophones)
• Idiomatic expressions and phrasal verbs
• Sentence structure and patterns
• Grammar rules (tenses, concord, parts of speech)
• Punctuation and spelling

C. Oral Forms

• Vowel and consonant sounds
• Stress patterns in words
• Intonation in sentences
• Rhymes and sound identification

Weightage and Focus Areas

Comprehension typically carries the highest weight (30-40%), followed by Lexis and Structure (40-50%), and Oral Forms (10-20%).

Sample Questions

Example 1 (Comprehension): After reading a passage about climate change, identify the author’s main argument.

Example 2 (Lexis): Choose the word closest in meaning to “ubiquitous”: (A) Rare (B) Omnipresent (C) Limited (D) Scarce

Example 3 (Oral Forms): Identify the word with a different stress pattern: CONtent, conTENT, PROject, proJECT

Study Tips

• Read newspapers, novels, and academic journals daily
• Practice past JAMB comprehension passages
• Build vocabulary with at least 10 new words daily
• Master common grammatical rules and exceptions
• Listen to BBC or CNN for proper pronunciation

3. Mathematics

Topics and Subtopics

A. Number and Numeration

• Number bases and conversions
• Fractions, decimals, and percentages
• Approximations and standard form
• Indices and logarithms

B. Algebra

• Simplification and factorization
• Linear and quadratic equations
• Simultaneous equations
• Inequalities and word problems
• Sequences and series (AP, GP)

C. Geometry and Trigonometry

• Angles and polygons
• Circles and constructions
• Mensuration (areas and volumes)
• Trigonometric ratios (sine, cosine, tangent)
• Bearings and distances

D. Calculus

• Differentiation (first principles, rules)
• Integration (basic concepts)
• Application to maxima and minima

E. Statistics and Probability

• Mean, median, mode
• Range and standard deviation
• Probability calculations
• Data representation (bar charts, pie charts, histograms)

Weightage and Focus Areas

Algebra (30%), Geometry/Trigonometry (25%), Statistics (15%), Number and Numeration (15%), Calculus (15%).

Sample Questions

Example 1: Solve for x: 3x + 7 = 22

Example 2: Find the area of a circle with radius 7cm (Take π = 22/7)

Example 3: If P(A) = 0.6 and P(B) = 0.4, find P(A and B) if events are independent.

Study Tips

• Master basic operations before advancing to complex topics
• Practice at least 20 mathematics questions daily
• Memorize important formulas for quick recall
• Time yourself during practice sessions
• Focus heavily on past questions—JAMB often repeats question patterns

4. Physics

Topics and Subtopics

A. Mechanics

• Motion (speed, velocity, acceleration)
• Newton’s laws of motion
• Work, energy, and power
• Machines and mechanical advantage
• Equilibrium of forces

B. Heat and Thermodynamics

• Temperature scales
• Heat transfer methods
• Specific heat capacity
• Gas laws
• Thermal expansion

C. Electricity and Magnetism

• Electric fields and charges
• Current electricity (Ohm’s law, resistance)
• Electromagnetism
• Simple circuits and electrical devices
• Electromagnetic induction

D. Waves

• Wave properties (wavelength, frequency, amplitude)
• Sound waves
• Light waves (reflection, refraction, dispersion)
• Electromagnetic spectrum

E. Modern Physics

• Atomic structure
• Radioactivity
• Nuclear energy
• Electronics and semiconductors

Weightage and Focus Areas

Mechanics (25%), Electricity (25%), Waves (20%), Heat (15%), Modern Physics (15%).

Sample Questions

Example 1: Calculate the kinetic energy of a 2kg object moving at 5m/s.

Example 2: State Ohm’s Law and apply it to calculate current when V=12V and R=4Ω.

Example 3: Explain the principle of electromagnetic induction.

Study Tips

• Understand concepts rather than memorizing
• Draw diagrams for every topic
• Practice numerical problems extensively
• Relate physics concepts to everyday phenomena
• Master formula derivations and applications

5. Chemistry

Topics and Subtopics

A. Atomic Structure and Bonding

• Atomic models and electron configuration
• Periodic table trends
• Chemical bonding (ionic, covalent, metallic)
• Intermolecular forces

B. Chemical Reactions

• Types of reactions (synthesis, decomposition, displacement)
• Balancing equations
• Redox reactions
• Reaction rates and equilibrium

C. Stoichiometry

• Mole concept
• Empirical and molecular formulas
• Concentration calculations
• Volumetric analysis

D. Acids, Bases, and Salts

• Properties and uses
• pH scale
• Neutralization reactions
• Salt preparation methods

E. Organic Chemistry

• Hydrocarbons (alkanes, alkenes, alkynes)
• Functional groups (alcohols, acids, esters)
• Polymers and petrochemicals
• Isomerism

F. Thermochemistry

• Enthalpy changes
• Hess’s law
• Energy diagrams

Weightage and Focus Areas

Organic Chemistry (25%), Stoichiometry (20%), Chemical Reactions (20%), Atomic Structure (20%), Acids/Bases (15%).

Sample Questions

Example 1: Balance the equation: Fe + O₂ → Fe₂O₃

Example 2: Calculate the number of moles in 44g of CO₂ (Molar mass = 44g/mol)

Example 3: Differentiate between saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons with examples.

Study Tips

• Create a periodic table cheat sheet
• Practice writing and balancing equations daily
• Use mnemonics for remembering element properties
• Master mole calculations thoroughly
• Study organic chemistry systematically by functional groups

6. Biology

Topics and Subtopics

A. Cell Biology

• Cell structure and organelles
• Cell division (mitosis and meiosis)
• Osmosis and diffusion
• Active and passive transport

B. Genetics

• Mendelian inheritance
• DNA structure and function
• Mutations and variations
• Genetic disorders

C. Evolution and Classification

• Darwin’s theory of evolution
• Natural selection
• Classification systems
• Taxonomy

D. Ecology

• Ecosystem components
• Food chains and webs
• Energy flow in ecosystems
• Environmental conservation

E. Human Biology

• Nutrition and digestion
• Respiratory system
• Circulatory system
• Excretory system
• Reproductive system
• Nervous and endocrine systems

F. Plant Biology

• Photosynthesis and respiration
• Plant structure and function
• Reproduction in plants
• Plant responses to stimuli

Weightage and Focus Areas

Human Biology (30%), Ecology (20%), Cell Biology (20%), Genetics (15%), Plant Biology (15%).

Sample Questions

Example 1: Explain the process of photosynthesis with a balanced equation.

Example 2: What is the difference between mitosis and meiosis?

Example 3: Describe Mendel’s law of segregation with an example.

Study Tips

• Draw and label biological diagrams
• Understand processes, not just definitions
• Study human systems thoroughly—highly tested
• Practice genetic cross problems
• Use flashcards for memorizing scientific names

7. Economics

Topics and Subtopics

A. Basic Economic Concepts

• Scarcity and choice
• Opportunity cost
• Production possibility curve
• Economic systems

B. Theory of Demand and Supply

• Law of demand and supply
• Elasticity (price, income, cross)
• Market equilibrium
• Consumer and producer surplus

C. Theory of Production

• Factors of production
• Law of diminishing returns
• Economies and diseconomies of scale
• Production costs

D. Market Structures

• Perfect competition
• Monopoly
• Oligopoly
• Monopolistic competition

E. National Income

• GDP, GNP, and national income accounting
• Inflation and deflation
• Unemployment
• Economic growth and development

F. Money and Banking

• Functions of money
• Central banking
• Commercial banking
• Monetary policy

G. International Trade

• Terms of trade
• Balance of payments
• Exchange rates
• Trade policies

Weightage and Focus Areas

Demand and Supply (25%), National Income (20%), Production (15%), Market Structures (15%), International Trade (15%), Money and Banking (10%).

Sample Questions

Example 1: Define opportunity cost and provide a practical example.

Example 2: Explain how price elasticity affects total revenue.

Example 3: Differentiate between GDP and GNP.

Study Tips

• Understand graphs and their interpretations
• Relate economic concepts to current Nigerian economy
• Master calculation questions (elasticity, national income)
• Read business news regularly
• Practice drawing demand-supply curves

8. Government

Topics and Subtopics

A. Basic Concepts

• Definition of government
• Types of government
• Power and authority
• Legitimacy and sovereignty

B. Nigerian Government

• Pre-colonial political systems
• Colonial administration
• Post-independence constitutions
• Federal system in Nigeria
• Local government administration

C. Political Institutions

• Legislature (functions and types)
• Executive (presidential vs. parliamentary)
• Judiciary (court systems)
• Public service
• Electoral systems

D. Political Ideologies

• Capitalism
• Socialism
• Communism
• Fascism
• Democracy

E. International Relations

• Foreign policy
• International organizations (UN, AU, ECOWAS)
• Diplomacy
• Globalization

Weightage and Focus Areas

Nigerian Government (30%), Political Institutions (25%), International Relations (20%), Basic Concepts (15%), Ideologies (10%).

Sample Questions

Example 1: Outline the functions of the Nigerian legislature.

Example 2: Differentiate between unitary and federal systems of government.

Example 3: Explain the concept of separation of powers.

Study Tips

• Study Nigerian political history thoroughly
• Understand the structure of government at all levels
• Keep up with current political events
• Master constitutional provisions
• Practice essay-type answers for better understanding

9. Literature in English

Topics and Subtopics

A. Literary Devices and Terms

• Metaphor, simile, personification
• Imagery and symbolism
• Irony, paradox, oxymoron
• Alliteration, assonance, onomatopoeia

B. Prose Analysis

• Plot, setting, and characterization
• Theme and message
• Point of view and narrative techniques
• Analyzing prescribed novels

C. Poetry Analysis

• Types of poetry
• Poetic devices
• Rhythm and rhyme
• Interpretation of prescribed poems

D. Drama Analysis

• Elements of drama
• Tragic and comic elements
• Stage directions
• Character development
• Analyzing prescribed plays

E. Prescribed Texts (2026)

• “The Lekki Headmaster” by Kabir Alabi Garba (Novel)
• Other texts as announced by JAMB

Weightage and Focus Areas

Prescribed Texts (40%), Literary Devices (30%), Poetry (15%), Drama (15%).

Sample Questions

Example 1: Analyze the theme of corruption in “The Lekki Headmaster.”

Example 2: Identify and explain the literary device: “Her smile was sunshine.”

Example 3: Discuss the character of the protagonist in the prescribed novel.

Study Tips

• Read prescribed texts multiple times
• Make character maps and plot summaries
• Practice identifying literary devices in passages
• Join literature discussion groups
• Watch movie adaptations of prescribed plays

10. Christian Religious Studies (CRS)

Topics and Subtopics

A. Creation to the Patriarchs

• Creation narratives
• The fall of man
• Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob
• Joseph in Egypt

B. The Exodus and Conquest

• Moses and the liberation
• Ten Commandments
• Wilderness wanderings
• Joshua and the conquest of Canaan

C. The Kingdom Period

• Saul, David, and Solomon
• Division of the kingdom
• Prophets (Elijah, Elisha, Isaiah, Jeremiah)

D. Life and Ministry of Jesus

• Birth and early life
• Teachings and parables
• Miracles
• Crucifixion and resurrection

E. The Early Church

• Pentecost and the apostles
• Paul’s missionary journeys
• Teachings of the epistles
• Christian living and ethics

Weightage and Focus Areas

Life of Jesus (30%), Old Testament Narratives (30%), Early Church (20%), Christian Ethics (20%).

Sample Questions

Example 1: Describe the significance of the Last Supper.

Example 2: Explain three parables of Jesus and their meanings.

Example 3: Discuss the conversion experience of Paul.

Study Tips

• Read the Bible passages directly
• Memorize key verses and their references
• Understand the context of biblical events
• Practice writing answers in essay format
• Relate biblical teachings to modern life

11. Geography

Topics and Subtopics

A. Physical Geography

• Landforms (mountains, plateaus, plains)
• Weather and climate
• Water bodies (rivers, lakes, oceans)
• Rocks and minerals
• Weathering and erosion

B. Human Geography

• Population distribution and density
• Migration patterns
• Settlement types (rural and urban)
• Urbanization challenges
• Transportation and communication

C. Economic Geography

• Agriculture (types and practices)
• Industries and manufacturing
• Mining and energy resources
• Trade and commerce

D. Map Reading and Interpretation

• Map scales and measurements
• Contour lines and relief
• Map symbols and conventional signs
• Latitude and longitude

E. Environmental Issues

• Deforestation and desertification
• Pollution (air, water, land)
• Conservation strategies
• Climate change impacts

Weightage and Focus Areas

Physical Geography (30%), Human Geography (25%), Map Reading (20%), Economic Geography (15%), Environmental Issues (10%).

Sample Questions

Example 1: Calculate distance on a map with scale 1:50,000.

Example 2: Explain the causes and effects of rural-urban migration.

Example 3: Describe three methods of soil conservation.

Study Tips

• Practice map reading extensively
• Draw diagrams for physical features
• Study Nigeria’s geography in detail
• Master scale calculations and bearings
• Relate geographical concepts to real-world examples

12. Commerce

Topics and Subtopics

A. Introduction to Commerce

• Meaning and scope of commerce
• Commercial activities
• Aids to trade

B. Trade

• Home trade (retail and wholesale)
• Foreign trade (import and export)
• Trade documents
• Terms of trade

C. Business Organizations

• Sole proprietorship
• Partnership
• Cooperative societies
• Companies (public and private)

D. Transport and Communication

• Modes of transport
• Insurance in commerce
• Warehousing
• Communication systems

E. Banking and Finance

• Types of banks
• Banking services
• Stock exchange
• Sources of business finance

F. Consumer Protection

• Consumer rights
• Advertising
• Market regulations

Weightage and Focus Areas

Trade (25%), Business Organizations (25%), Banking (20%), Transport (15%), Consumer Protection (15%).

Sample Questions

Example 1: Differentiate between wholesale and retail trade.

Example 2: Explain five functions of a commercial bank.

Example 3: List four documents used in foreign trade.

Study Tips

• Understand practical business scenarios
• Memorize key definitions and functions
• Study Nigerian business environment
• Practice identifying trade documents
• Relate commerce to everyday transactions

13. General Study Tips and Strategies

Before the Examination

1. Start Early: Begin preparation at least 6 months before the exam
2. Create a Study Timetable: Allocate specific times for each subject
3. Use the Official JAMB Syllabus: Focus only on topics in the syllabus
4. Practice with CBT Software: Familiarize yourself with the computer interface
5. Join Study Groups: Collaborate with serious students
6. Take Mock Exams: Register for JAMB mock to assess your readiness

During Preparation

1. Study Past Questions: JAMB often repeats question patterns
2. Master Time Management: Practice completing 40 questions in 30-40 minutes per subject
3. Focus on Weak Areas: Dedicate extra time to challenging topics
4. Take Regular Breaks: Study in 45-60 minute intervals with 10-minute breaks
5. Stay Healthy: Get adequate sleep, eat nutritious meals, and exercise

On Examination Day

1. Arrive Early: Get to the CBT center at least 1 hour before time
2. Read Instructions Carefully: Understand the CBT interface navigation
3. Attempt All Questions: There’s no negative marking
4. Manage Your Time: Don’t spend too long on difficult questions
5. Review Your Answers: Use remaining time to check responses
6. Stay Calm: Take deep breaths if you feel anxious

14. Updates and Changes for 2026

Syllabus Status

The 2026 JAMB syllabus has been released and is available for download through the official JAMB portal and various educational platforms. The syllabus maintains consistency with previous years, with minor adjustments in some subject areas.

Key Updates

1. Literature Text: The prescribed novel for 2026 is “The Lekki Headmaster” by Kabir Alabi Garba, which candidates must study thoroughly.
2. New Subject Options: Candidates can now choose Computer Studies or Physical and Health Education as part of their four required subjects, providing more flexibility based on course requirements.
3. Examination Format: The CBT format remains unchanged, with 40-60 questions per subject and a total duration of 2 hours.
4. Registration Requirements: Candidates must be at least 16 years old by September 30, 2026, with specific exemptions for exceptional cases requiring 80% in specified exams.
5. Areas of Concentration: JAMB provides specific areas of concentration for each subject, highlighting topics with higher probability of being tested.

What Remains Unchanged

• Use of English remains compulsory for all candidates
• Four subjects total (English + 3 others)
• 400 maximum score (100 per subject)
• Recommended textbooks and study materials
• Mock examination opportunity before the main exam

Where to Access Official Materials

• Official JAMB Website: www.jamb.gov.ng

YOU CAN DOWNLOAD FREE MATERIALS BELOW:

MATHEMATICS

USE OF ENGLISH

ART

BIOLOGY

PHYSICS

CHEMISTRY

AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE

CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS STUDIES

COMMERCE

MUSIC

COMPUTER STUDIES

ECONOMICS

FRENCH

HAUSA GEOGRAPHY

HISTORY

HOME ECONOMICS

ISLAMIC STUDIES IGBO

PHYSICAL AND HEALTH EDUCATION

PRINCIPLES OF ACCOUNTS

YORUBA

Conclusion

Success in JAMB 2026 requires dedicated preparation, strategic studying, and thorough understanding of the syllabus. Focus on mastering the core topics in your chosen subjects, practice regularly with past questions, and maintain a disciplined study routine. Remember that the syllabus is your roadmap—every question in the examination will be drawn from the topics outlined.

Stay focused, avoid distractions, practice time management, and believe in your ability to succeed. With proper preparation and the right mindset, scoring high in JAMB 2026 is achievable.

You may also like to read: JAMB CBT Practice Mistakes: How to Avoid Them and Maximize Your Score