Preparing for JAMB Biology? The right textbook helps you study the topics JAMB actually tests. This page gives you the full list of JAMB recommended Biology textbooks for 2026/2027, and shows you how to use them.
There are 7 recommended textbooks for JAMB Biology (full list below). You don’t have to buy all of them, so pick one or two that match the syllabus and that you understand well.
What is Jamb Syllabus?
The JAMB syllabus is a list of the topics JAMB can ask in the exam for each subject. In other words, it tells you what to study and what to skip.
JAMB updates its syllabus through its IBASS portal, so confirm your subject’s syllabus there before you buy any book. Before you buy any book, check the current Biology syllabus on JAMB’s official IBASS portal (ibass.jamb.gov.ng). JAMB can revise topics, so what you read should match the latest version.
JAMB Recommended Textbooks For Biology (2026/2027)
| No. | Textbook | Author(s) | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Senior Secondary School Biology, Books 1-3 | Ndu, F.O.C., Ndu, A. and Aina, J.O. (2001) | Longman, Lagos |
| 2 | Essentials of Biology | Odunfa, S.A. (2001) | Heinemann, Ibadan |
| 3 | Biology for Senior Secondary Schools, Books 1-3 | Ogunniyi, M.B., Adebisi, A.A. and Okojie, J.A. (2000) | Macmillan |
| 4 | Modern Biology, SS Science Series (New Edition) | Ramalingam, S.T. (2005) | AFP |
| 5 | Biology for Senior Secondary Schools (Revised Edition) | STAN (2004) | Heinemann, Ibadan |
| 6 | Biology for West African Schools | Stone, R.H. and Cozens, A.B.C. (1982) | Longman |
| 7 | Handbook of Practical Biology (2nd Edition) | Usua, E.J. (1997) | University Press Limited |
How To Study your Biology With these textbooks
1. Start with the syllabus. First, download the Biology syllabus and tick off each topic as you finish it.
Pick one main textbook.
2. Then, use a second book only when a topic is unclear. Study by topic, not by page. For example, finish “Cell Biology” before you move to “Genetics.”
3. Make short notes. Write key definitions, diagrams, and processes in your own words.
Practise past questions.
4. After each topic, test yourself so you know what stuck. You can use our JAMB past questions.
5. . Review your mistakes. Go back to the textbook for every question you miss.
Do the Practical Jamb Biology Book and Diagrams matter?
Yes. Even though JAMB is computer-based, understanding practicals and diagrams helps you answer questions on structure, experiments, and processes. The Handbook of Practical Biology helps most here.\
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Biology
- Buying all seven books and finishing none
- Using a book that doesn’t match the current syllabus
- Reading for hours without testing yourself
- Skipping diagrams and practical topics
- Starting too late, because Biology covers many topics
Frequently asked questions
Which Biology textbook is best for JAMB?
Any book from the list that covers the full syllabus and explains topics in a way you understand. Check the contents page against the syllabus before you buy.
Are JAMB recommended textbooks compulsory?
No. It isn’t compulsory to get all of them, but they are the safest guide to the syllabus.
Do I need more than one textbook?
One main textbook is enough for most candidates. Use a second only to clear up difficult topics.
Can I pass JAMB Biology without the recommended textbooks?
Yes, if the material you use covers the whole syllabus and is accurate. However, the recommended books reduce the risk of missing topics.
When should I start reading?
As early as possible. Biology has many topics, so spread them over several weeks instead of cramming.
Where can I get the JAMB Biology syllabus?
Check JAMB’s official channels, including its IBASS portal, so you use the current version.
Keep studying
Now pick your textbook, open the syllabus, and start with one topic today. Then test yourself with past questions. Join our WhatsApp channel for education news and JAMB updates. Have a question about this post? Drop it in the comments and we will try to help.
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2 Comments
Are we required to make use of the whole listed textbooks or just one of them?
Yes, Nkedugists advise you to start answering questions on the textbook. If you have actually use two different textboks to study.