JAMB Subject Combination for Banking and Finance – 2026/2027 Complete Guide

Banking and Finance is one of the most popular courses in Nigeria, attracting thousands of candidates every year. The course focuses on financial management, banking operations, investment analysis, economics, and accounting principles. However, many students lose admission opportunities not because of low JAMB scores, but because they select the wrong JAMB subject combination or fail to meet university requirements.

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the JAMB subject combination for Banking and Finance, including O’Level requirements, Direct Entry qualifications, JAMB cut-off marks, top universities, and proven strategies for gaining admission.

With the right knowledge, you can avoid common mistakes and increase your chances of being admitted into a reputable Nigerian university offering Banking and Finance.

What Is Banking and Finance?

Banking and Finance is a professional course that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for managing financial institutions, analyzing investment opportunities, managing funds, and making informed economic decisions. Graduates work in commercial and investment banks, insurance companies, stock markets, financial consultancies, multinational corporations, and public sector institutions.

Students in Banking and Finance learn about:

• Financial accounting and reporting

• Micro and macroeconomics

• Financial markets and institutions

• Risk management

• Business law and ethics

• Investment analysis and portfolio management

The course combines theory with practical skills, ensuring graduates are ready to meet the demands of Nigeria’s dynamic financial sector.

Why Choosing the Correct JAMB Subject Combination Matters

Universities in Nigeria have strict policies regarding JAMB subject combinations. Choosing incorrect subjects during UTME registration can automatically disqualify a candidate from being considered for admission.

For Banking and Finance, universities require subjects that provide a solid foundation in mathematics, accounting, and economic reasoning. Using unrelated subjects such as Biology or Chemistry will prevent you from gaining admission, regardless of your JAMB score.

Official JAMB Subject Combination for Banking and Finance

The correct JAMB subject combination for Banking and Finance is:

1. Use of English (Compulsory for all courses)

2. Mathematics

3. Economics

4. Any one of the following:

   • Accounting

   • Commerce

This combination ensures that students have strong analytical, numerical, and economic skills necessary for success in the course.

Why These Subjects Are Required

Mathematics

Mathematics forms the backbone of financial analysis, statistics, and accounting calculations. It is critical for solving numerical problems and making informed financial decisions.

Economics

Economics equips students with knowledge about market operations, financial policies, supply and demand, and resource allocation. A strong grasp of economics is essential for financial decision-making.

Accounting/Commerce

Accounting introduces students to financial record keeping, auditing, and reporting. Commerce provides knowledge of business operations, trade, and finance. Either subject is relevant for developing practical skills for Banking and Finance.

English

English ensures effective communication, report writing, and comprehension—vital for banking professionals who interact with clients and stakeholders.

O’Level Requirements for Banking and Finance

To study Banking and Finance in Nigeria, candidates must have at least five (5) credit passes at O’Level (WAEC, NECO, or GCE) in:

• English Language

• Mathematics

• Economics

• Accounting

• Any other relevant subject

Important notes:

• Results can be from one or two sittings, depending on the university.

• Top universities prefer candidates with all credits in one sitting.

• Strong grades in Mathematics and English are especially important.

Direct Entry Requirements for Banking and Finance

Candidates applying through Direct Entry (DE) must meet one of the following criteria:

• A-Level passes in Mathematics, Economics, and Accounting/Commerce

• ND or HND in Banking, Finance, Accounting, or related courses with Upper Credit

• NCE in Economics, Accounting, or Business-related subjects

Direct Entry students may start at 200 Level, allowing them to complete the course in fewer years than UTME candidates.

Duration of the Course

The standard duration of Banking and Finance in Nigerian universities is:

• 4 years for UTME candidates

• 3 years for Direct Entry candidates

The program includes:

• Core theoretical courses

• Practical sessions and workshops

• Internship programs in banks and financial institutions

• Research projects and financial case studies

Upon graduation, students are well-equipped for both local and international financial markets.

Top Universities Offering Banking and Finance in Nigeria

Federal Universities

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)

• University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)

• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)

• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

• University of Ibadan (UI)

• Bayero University Kano (BUK)

• University of Benin (UNIBEN)

State Universities

• Lagos State University (LASU)

• Delta State University (DELSU)

• Ekiti State University (EKSU)

• Rivers State University (RSU)

• Osun State University (UNIOSUN)

Private Universities

• Covenant University

• Babcock University

• Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)

• Bowen University

• Madonna University

Each university may have slight variations in cut-off marks and Post-UTME screening procedures.

JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Banking and Finance

The recommended JAMB score for admission into Banking and Finance is:

• Federal Universities: 200 – 250

• State Universities: 180 – 220

• Private Universities: 160 – 200

Higher scores are advantageous, especially in highly competitive federal universities where the departmental cut-off may be higher than the JAMB minimum.

Post-UTME Screening for Banking and Finance

After JAMB, most universities conduct a Post-UTME or screening exam. Candidates are typically tested in:

• Mathematics

• English Language

• Economics

• Accounting/Commerce

Performance in Post-UTME is critical, as universities often calculate the final admission score using a combination of JAMB and Post-UTME results.

Why Banking and Finance Is a Lucrative Career

Banking and Finance offers strong career prospects in Nigeria and globally. Benefits include:

• High earning potential

• Opportunities for advancement in banking and finance industries

• Job security and stability

• Flexibility to work in government, private sector, or multinational organizations

• Skills applicable to entrepreneurship and business management

• Opportunities for international employment

Graduates can also pursue certifications like ICAN, ACCA, CIMA, or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) for career advancement.

Career Opportunities for Banking and Finance Graduates

Graduates in Banking and Finance can pursue careers as:

• Bank officers and managers

• Investment analysts

• Financial consultants

• Accountants and auditors

• Risk management officers

• Stockbrokers

• Insurance professionals

• Entrepreneurs in financial services

The course provides the skills to manage both personal and corporate finance, making it highly versatile.

Tips to Gain Admission for Banking and Finance

1. Choose the Correct JAMB Subjects: English, Mathematics, Economics, and Accounting/Commerce.

2. Score High in JAMB: Aim for 200+ in state universities and 220–250+ for federal universities.

3. Excel in Post-UTME: Strong performance can boost admission chances.

4. Meet O’Level Requirements: Credits in Mathematics, English, Economics, Accounting, and a fifth relevant subject.

5. Research University Requirements: Some universities have specific screening criteria.

6. Prepare for Interviews: Certain universities may interview candidates.

7. Avoid Common Mistakes: Check subject combinations, upload O’Level results, and meet deadlines.

Common Mistakes Students Make When Applying for Banking and Finance

• Selecting incorrect JAMB subjects

• Failing to get credit passes in key O’Level subjects

• Applying to top universities without meeting cut-off marks

• Underestimating Post-UTME preparation

• Ignoring university-specific screening requirements

• Submitting incomplete documents

Avoiding these errors improves the likelihood of admission.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the JAMB subject combination for Banking and Finance?

• English, Mathematics, Economics, and Accounting/Commerce.

Q2: Can I study Banking and Finance without Economics?

• No. Economics is compulsory.

Q3: How many years does Banking and Finance take?

• 4 years for UTME candidates; 3 years for Direct Entry candidates.

Q4: Can art or social science students apply?

• Yes, if they meet the required O’Level subjects.

Q5: Can I combine WAEC and NECO results?

• Yes, if the university allows two sittings.

Read Also: JAMB Subject Combination for Nursing Sciences – 2026/2027 Guide

The JAMB subject combination for Banking and Finance is:

• English (Compulsory)

• Mathematics

• Economics

• Accounting or Commerce

Candidates must also meet O’Level requirements, achieve competitive JAMB and Post-UTME scores, and choose universities wisely. Banking and Finance is a versatile and lucrative course with wide career opportunities in Nigeria and internationally.

With proper planning, the right subject combination, and consistent preparation, aspiring students can successfully gain admission into reputable universities for the 2026/2027 academic session.