Optometry is a healthcare-related course that focuses on eye care, vision correction, and the diagnosis and management of visual disorders. It involves the study of the human eye, optical systems, lenses, and clinical techniques used in detecting and treating eye problems.
Students in this field are trained to examine eyesight, prescribe corrective lenses, detect eye diseases, and provide primary vision care services. Optometry combines elements of biology, physics, and healthcare, making it a highly specialized and professional course.
To gain admission into Optometry for the 2026/2027 academic session, candidates must choose the correct JAMB subject combination and meet all required admission criteria.
JAMB Subject Combination for Optometry 2026/2027
UTME candidates must register and sit for the following four (4) subjects:
- English Language (Compulsory)
- Biology
- Physics
- Chemistry
These subjects are essential because they form the scientific foundation needed for understanding vision science and clinical eye care.
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Nigerian Universities Offering Optometry
Below are universities offering Optometry and their subject combination:
| S/N | INSTITUTIONS | SUBJECT COMBINATION |
| 1 | University of Benin | Use of English, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry |
| 2 | Abia State University, Uturu | Use of English, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry |
| 3 | Imo State University, Owerri | Use of English, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry |
| 4 | University of Ilorin | Use of English, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry |
| 5 | Bayero University, Kano | Use of English, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry |
| 6 | Madonna University, Nigeria | Use of English, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry |
Availability may vary, and some universities offer the programme under different faculties such as Health Sciences.
Admission Requirements for Optometry
O’Level Requirements
Candidates must possess five (5) credit passes in:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Physics
- Chemistry
Results must be obtained in not more than two sittings (WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, or equivalent).
UTME Requirements
To qualify for UTME admission:
- Choose Optometry during JAMB registration
- Sit for English, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry
- Meet the institution’s cut-off mark (usually high due to competitiveness)
- Participate in post-UTME screening (if applicable)
Strong performance in all science subjects significantly improves admission chances.
Direct Entry Requirements
Direct Entry candidates may be admitted into 200-level with:
- Two (2) A’Level passes in Biology, Physics, or Chemistry
- Acceptable IJMB or JUPEB results in relevant science subjects
- ND/HND in Health Sciences, Science Laboratory Technology, or related fields
Candidates must also meet the standard O’Level requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Ques: Is Biology compulsory for Optometry?
Ans: Yes. Biology is a core subject required for both UTME and O’Level.
Ques: Is Physics necessary?
Ans: Yes. Physics is important for understanding optics and vision systems.
Ques: Can I replace Chemistry with another subject?
Ans: No. Chemistry is compulsory for Optometry.
Ques: Is Mathematics required?
Ans: Yes. Mathematics is required at O’Level.
Ques: Can I combine WAEC and NECO results?
Ans: Yes. Most universities accept results from not more than two sittings.
Ques: Does Optometry accept Direct Entry?
Ans: Yes. Candidates with A’Level, IJMB, JUPEB, ND, or HND in related science fields can apply.
Ques: Is Optometry competitive?
Ans: Yes. It is a highly competitive course, and a high UTME score is recommended.
Ques: What career opportunities are available?
Ans: Graduates can work as optometrists, vision care specialists, researchers, or in hospitals and eye clinics.
Ques: Can I switch to Optometry with the wrong subject combination?
Ans: No. Incorrect subject combinations may lead to disqualification.
Ques: Are requirements the same across all universities?
Ans: Not always. Some universities may have slightly higher cut-off marks or additional screening requirements.