The short answer
| Computer Science (BSc) | |
|---|---|
| UTME subjects | Use of English, Mathematics, Physics, and one of Chemistry, Biology or another science |
| National minimum (universities, 2026/27) | 150 |
| A safe target at a competitive federal university | 240+ |
| O'level | Five credits including English Language, Mathematics and Physics, plus two other sciences |
The target is our guidance, not an official figure. Departmental cut-offs are set by each institution every year, and many state and private universities admit well below it. Always confirm your combination in the JAMB brochure and on your chosen institution's admission page.
JAMB subject combination for Computer Science
Use of English, Mathematics and Physics, plus one more science. Chemistry is accepted everywhere, so it is the safest third elective. Many universities also accept Biology, and some accept Economics, Geography or Agricultural Science.
Mathematics and Physics are not optional. Candidates who choose Biology and Chemistry because they want to keep a medical course open find themselves shut out of Computer Science.
JAMB cut-off mark for Computer Science
The minimum JAMB set for universities for the 2026/2027 session is 150. For Computer Science that number tells you very little: it only means you are allowed to apply.
Computer Science is now one of the most applied-for courses in Nigeria. Popular federal universities receive many more qualified applicants than they have places, so the departmental cut-off sits well above the national floor.
Set your own target: take last year's departmental cut-off at the institution you want, add 20 to 30 marks as a buffer, and divide by four. That is your per-subject average to train for. How cut-offs work explains the three different numbers involved.
O'level requirements
Five credits including English Language, Mathematics and Physics, plus two other sciences, usually at no more than two sittings. Some institutions insist on one sitting for competitive courses. Your O'level is checked separately from your UTME, so a strong JAMB score does not rescue a missing credit.
How to prepare for Computer Science in JAMB
- Mathematics is your main subject. It is the subject most Computer Science applicants think they are good at and then lose marks in under time. Start with the topics that keep coming back.
- Physics calculations repeat. Motion, electricity and waves make up a large share. See where the questions come from.
- Watch careless errors. Maths-heavy papers are where careless mistakes cost the most.
Questions people ask
What is the JAMB subject combination for Computer Science?
Use of English, Mathematics, Physics, and one other science. Chemistry is accepted everywhere; many universities also accept Biology, and some accept Economics, Geography or Agricultural Science.
What is the JAMB cut-off mark for Computer Science?
The national minimum for universities in 2026/27 is 150. Computer Science at popular universities needs far more. Aim for 240 or above, and check your institution's departmental cut-off.
Can I study Computer Science without Physics?
At most Nigerian universities, no. Mathematics and Physics are both core requirements.
What O'level subjects do I need for Computer Science?
Credits in English Language, Mathematics and Physics, plus two other subjects, usually sciences.
Know how far off 240 you are. Sit a timed UTME mock and get your score out of 400, with the topics costing you most. Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Biology are all in the JAMBUDDY question bank. Free for 14 days, inside Telegram. Open @jamb_buddy_bot.