Botany is all about the study of plants starting with how they grow to how they interact with the environment. It’s a course that opens doors in research, agriculture, conservation, and environmental management. If you’re aiming to study Botany in Nigeria for the 2026/2027 academic session, the first thing you’ll need is the right JAMB score and admission requirements.
What Is the JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Botany in 2026?
The JAMB cut-off mark set by most institutions for Botany in 2026 starts from 100 for colleges of education. However, university whose general cut-off mark is 140 has the right to increase it based on competition and available space just as detailed below:
| Type of Institution | Cut-Off Range |
|---|---|
| Federal Universities | 180 – 200+ |
| State Universities | 160 – 190 |
| Private Universities | 160 and above |
To be on the safer side, aim for at least 180 or more if you’re targeting top public universities.
Admission Requirements for Studying Botany
To get admitted into a Nigerian university for Botany, you need to meet both UTME and O’Level conditions.
O’Level Subjects (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB)
You must have at least five credit passes in:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Any other science subject (like Physics or Geography)
- English Language (compulsory)
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics or Mathematics
Post-UTME or Screening
Many universities will require you to take a post-UTME exam or undergo a screening process based on your JAMB score and O’Level results.
Nigerian Universities Offering Botany
Several universities in Nigeria run Botany as a standalone course or as part of a related program such as Plant Science or Biological Sciences. Some of the most recognized ones include:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- Federal University of Lafia
- Ekiti State University (EKSU)
These schools have specific departmental cut-off marks, so check the latest details from their admissions offices or websites.
Polytechnics Offering Botany or Related Programs
While most polytechnics in Nigeria don’t offer Botany directly, they do provide related National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) courses in areas like Science Laboratory Technology (SLT) or Agricultural Technology. These can serve as a foundation before transferring to a university.
- Yaba College of Technology – Science Laboratory Technology
- Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti – SLT
- Auchi Polytechnic – SLT
- Federal Polytechnic Ilaro – Agricultural Technology
- Rufus Giwa Polytechnic – Agricultural Technology
JAMB scores of 120 to 150 may be accepted by these institutions, depending on the program.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is 160 enough to study Botany in a university?
A: Some schools accept 160, but higher scores give you better options.
Q: What is the subject combination for Botany in JAMB?
A: English, Biology, Chemistry, and either Physics or Mathematics.
Q: Do I need Physics for Botany?
A: Not always compulsory, but it strengthens your science base.
Q: Can I study Botany without Mathematics?
A: No. Mathematics is required at O’Level and sometimes in UTME.
Q: How many years does it take to study Botany?
A: Typically 4 years for a bachelor’s degree.
Q: Are there job opportunities after studying Botany?
A: Yes, in agriculture, research, conservation, biotech, and teaching.
Q: Can I switch to Botany from another science course?
A: Yes, if you meet the transfer requirements of your school.
Q: Which university is best for Botany in Nigeria?
A: UNN, UI, UNILAG, and OAU are among the best.
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