Medicine and Surgery is one of the most competitive courses in Nigeria. Every year, many students score high in WAEC but still loose admission because they selected the wrong subject combination. If you want to study Medicine and Surgery, this WAEC Subjects Combination for Medicine and Surgery 2026/2027 guide will show you the correct WAEC subjects, compulsory requirements, common mistakes, and answers to frequently asked questions.
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Selecting the right WAEC subject combination is one of the most important academic decisions every Senior Secondary School student will make. That is why this article is carefully written to guide students, parents, teachers, and school counselors, using clear explanations, updated information, and practical advice.
Understanding WAEC Student Categories
In the WAEC system, Senior Secondary School students are grouped into three major academic categories based on their strengths and interests:
Science Students – for those strong in science and technical subjects
Art Students – for students strong in languages, humanities, and social sciences
Commercial Students – for students interested in business, finance, and economics
These categories help schools and examination bodies guide students toward subjects that align with their abilities and future academic goals.
WAEC Subjects Combination for Medicine and Surgery
What it means to be a Medicine and Surgery Student?
Medicine and Surgery is a professional course that focuses on:
i. Diagnosing illnesses
ii. Treating diseases
iii. Preventing health problems
iv. Saving lives
Graduates can become:
Medical doctors
Surgeons
Medical researchers
Public health professionals
NOTE Because of its nature, Medicine and Surgery is a pure science course with very strict subject requirements.
Compulsory 2026/2027 WAEC Subjects Combination for Medicine and Surgery
To study Medicine and Surgery, you must have ALL the following subjects:
1. English Language (Compulsory)
English Language is compulsory for all WAEC candidates, including art students.
Why English Language Is Important:
It is the official language of instruction
Required for admission into all tertiary institutions
Essential for communication, writing, and comprehension
English Language tests:
Essay writing
Comprehension
Summary
Grammar and oral English
A credit pass in English is non-negotiable for higher education in Nigeria and other WAEC-participating countries.
2. Mathematics (Compulsory)
Although many art students find Mathematics challenging, it remains compulsory in WAEC.
Importance of Mathematics for Art Students:
Required for university admission
Develops logical and analytical thinking
Supports courses like Economics, Law, and Education
WAEC Mathematics focuses on:
Basic arithmetic
Algebra
Statistics
Problem-solving
A pass or credit in Mathematics is required by most institutions.
3. Biology (Compulsory)
Forms the foundation of Medicine
Covers human anatomy, physiology, and living organisms
4. Chemistry (Compulsory)
Important for understanding drugs, reactions, and body chemistry
5. Physics (Compulsory)
Required for medical equipment, energy, and diagnostics
📌 Missing any of these subjects can disqualify you automatically.
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Why English Language and Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics Are Mandatory
English Language and Mathematics have remained core subjects from primary to secondary education.
For art students:
English supports communication and writing-based careers
Mathematics builds logic and problem-solving skills
- Biology Covers human anatomy, physiology, and living organisms
- Chemistry Important for understanding drugs, reactions, and body chemistry
- Physics Required for medical equipment, energy, and diagnostics
No WAEC result is considered complete without these two subjects, that is why WAEC candidates are advised to ensure they pass the Core subjects
Recommended Supporting Subjects (Optional)
If you are offering more than five subjects, many times the WAEC Subjects Combination for Medicine and Surgery may require more than 5 subjects, these cones below can be substituted:
Further Mathematics
Health Science
Agricultural Science (in some cases)
NOTE These are not compulsory but can strengthen your academic background.
Subjects You Should NOT Combine with Medicine
Avoid these mistakes:
i. Replacing Physics with Economics
ii. Dropping Chemistry for Geography
iii. Mixing arts subjects with core sciences
NOTE Medicine does not accept arts-based combinations.
Common Mistakes Medical Aspirants Make
❌ Skipping Physics
Some students think Physics is optional. This is wrong.
❌ Weak Science Foundation
Medicine requires strong understanding of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
❌ Ignoring University-Specific Requirements
Some schools may have additional conditions.
WAEC vs JAMB Subject Requirements for Medicine
WAEC Requirements:
English
Mathematics
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
JAMB Subject Combination:
English Language
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
📌 Your WAEC and JAMB subjects must align perfectly.
Minimum WAEC Grades Required for Medicine
At least 5 credit passes
Credits in English, Maths, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
Competitive universities prefer strong grades (A–B)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Study Medicine Without Physics?
No. Physics is compulsory for Medicine and Surgery.
Is Mathematics Compulsory for Medicine?
Yes. Mathematics is required by almost all universities.
Can I Combine Medicine with Agricultural Science?
Agricultural Science may be accepted as an extra subject, but not as a replacement.
Is Further Mathematics Required?
Further Mathematics is not compulsory, but it can be an advantage.
Final Advice for Medical Aspirants
Medicine and Surgery requires:
Correct subject combination
Strong science background
Early preparation
Before registering for WAEC:
Confirm your university requirements
Stick strictly to science subjects
Avoid unnecessary electives
Choosing the right subjects early increases your chance of admission and saves you time.
CONCLUSION
Correct subject combination improves both WAEC results and future academic opportunities. Candidates are advised to read carefully the WAEC Subjects Combination for Medicine and Surgery2026/2027 before embarking on WAEC Registration as any mistake made cannot be corrected. For More information Visit the Official WAEC Portal https://www.waeconline.org.ng/ For Updated information.
