Make effective preparation with JAMB Biology CBT Questions and Answers here. Studying JAMB Biology for final exams is not limited to reading up definitions and browsing round for “sure questions”. Adequate preparation for the exams are based on the official JAMB Biology syllabus for the exams, adequate knowledge of concepts in Biology and constant assessment with objectives questions.
This guide contains 40 new original practice Biology questions in JAMB CBT pattern (answers and explanations provided) for JAMB Biology, which will be supplemented with the syllabus, some preparation tips, common mistakes, ways to verify a question and many more practice questions for you.
Important Note: All questions on this website were written for academic practice. JAMB questions on this website are not JAMB past questions, JAMB predicted questions nor are they any of JAMB Board questions. Candidates should cross check all JAMB examination details, syllabus and requirements from JAMB Board official website.
JAMB Biology Questions and Answers at a Glance
Biology is one of the approved UTME subjects and is commonly selected by candidates applying for programmes in biological, agricultural, health, environmental and related sciences. Whether Biology is appropriate for a particular course depends on the institution and programme requirements, so candidates should confirm their individual subject combinations through JAMB’s official eligibility resources.
JAMB Biology syllabus is grouped into major areas that candidates are tested on their knowledge and application in relation to diversity and unity of life, continuity of life and application of biological principles in daily life and society.
JAMB Official Biology Syllabus and What to Study
The official syllabus should be the starting point for every serious candidate. JAMB’s Biology syllabus outlines both the topics candidates are expected to study and the learning objectives associated with those topics.
Main Areas Covered in JAMB Biology
The official syllabus covers broad areas that include:
- Variety of organisms
- Form and functions in plants and animals
- Ecology
- Heredity and variation
- Evolution
- Biology and everyday life
Candidates should use the detailed objectives in the official syllabus to guide their revision rather than relying solely on lists of “important topics.” The syllabus includes areas such as cells and levels of organisation, classification and evolution, nutrition, transport, reproduction, ecological relationships, inheritance, adaptation and environmental issues.
JAMB Biology General Objectives
According to the official syllabus, the examination is intended to assess candidates’ ability to understand:
- The diversity, interdependence and unity of life.
- Continuity of life through processes including reproduction, inheritance and evolution.
- The application of biological principles to everyday life, the environment, community health and economic activities.
How to Use the Official Syllabus
A practical approach is to:
- Download or consult the official Biology syllabus.
- Turn each syllabus topic into a revision checklist.
- Study the concepts before attempting questions.
- Practise questions from each topic.
- Review every incorrect answer and identify the underlying concept.
The official JAMB website provides access to the Integrated Brochure and Syllabus System (IBASS), which candidates can use alongside the eligibility checker for programme requirements.
JAMB Biology Objectives Questions and Answers
The following questions are original practice questions written to test knowledge of concepts commonly covered by the JAMB Biology syllabus. They should not be represented as official or leaked JAMB examination questions.
Variety of Organisms and Cell Biology
Question 1
Which of the following is a characteristic of living organisms?
A. Rusting
B. Respiration
C. Burning
D. Freezing
Answer: B. Respiration
Explanation: Living organisms carry out life processes. Respiration releases energy from food for cellular activities. Rusting and burning are chemical processes but are not characteristics of life.
Question 2
The organelle responsible for controlling most activities of a cell is the
A. mitochondrion
B. ribosome
C. nucleus
D. vacuole
Answer: C. Nucleus
Explanation: The nucleus contains genetic material and coordinates many cellular activities.
Question 3
Which structure is present in a plant cell but absent in an animal cell?
A. Cell membrane
B. Cytoplasm
C. Cell wall
D. Nucleus
Answer: C. Cell wall
Explanation: Plant cells have a cellulose cell wall that provides support and protection. Animal cells do not have cell walls.
Question 4
The smallest unit capable of carrying out the basic processes of life is the
A. tissue
B. organ
C. cell
D. organ system
Answer: C. Cell
Explanation: The cell is the basic structural and functional unit of life.
Question 5
An organism made up of one cell is described as
A. multicellular
B. unicellular
C. colonial
D. complex
Answer: B. Unicellular
Explanation: Unicellular organisms consist of a single cell that performs all essential life functions.
Question 6
Which organelle is mainly associated with aerobic respiration?
A. Chloroplast
B. Mitochondrion
C. Golgi body
D. Lysosome
Answer: B. Mitochondrion
Explanation: Mitochondria are major sites of aerobic respiration and energy release in cells.
Question 7
Which of the following organisms is a fungus?
A. Amoeba
B. Rhizopus
C. Euglena
D. Spirogyra
Answer: B. Rhizopus
Explanation: Rhizopus is a fungus commonly known as bread mould.
Question 8
The movement of water molecules from a region of higher water potential to a region of lower water potential through a selectively permeable membrane is
A. diffusion
B. osmosis
C. transpiration
D. active transport
Answer: B. Osmosis
Explanation: Osmosis specifically involves the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane.
Nutrition and Transport
Question 9
The process by which green plants manufacture food using light energy is
A. respiration
B. transpiration
C. photosynthesis
D. digestion
Answer: C. Photosynthesis
Explanation: During photosynthesis, green plants use light energy to produce carbohydrates from carbon dioxide and water.
Question 10
Which of the following is required for photosynthesis?
A. Oxygen and protein
B. Carbon dioxide and water
C. Nitrogen and fat
D. Starch and oxygen
Answer: B. Carbon dioxide and water
Explanation: Carbon dioxide and water are raw materials used in photosynthesis, while chlorophyll and light are essential conditions.
Question 11
The main function of the xylem is to transport
A. manufactured food
B. water and mineral salts
C. hormones only
D. oxygen only
Answer: B. Water and mineral salts
Explanation: Xylem transports water and dissolved mineral salts mainly from the roots to other parts of the plant.
Question 12
In humans, most absorption of digested food takes place in the
A. stomach
B. small intestine
C. large intestine
D. oesophagus
Answer: B. Small intestine
Explanation: The small intestine is adapted for efficient absorption through structures such as villi, which provide a large surface area.
Question 13
The enzyme that begins the digestion of starch in the mouth is
A. pepsin
B. lipase
C. amylase
D. trypsin
Answer: C. Amylase
Explanation: Salivary amylase begins the breakdown of starch into simpler carbohydrates.
Question 14
A balanced diet is one that contains
A. only carbohydrates and proteins
B. all essential nutrients in appropriate proportions
C. more vitamins than other nutrients
D. only energy-giving foods
Answer: B. All essential nutrients in appropriate proportions
Explanation: A balanced diet provides the nutrients needed by the body in suitable amounts and proportions.
Question 15
The blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart are called
A. veins
B. capillaries
C. arteries
D. venules
Answer: C. Arteries
Explanation: Arteries carry blood away from the heart, although the oxygen content of the blood depends on the particular circulation.
Question 16
Red blood cells are particularly adapted for the transport of oxygen because they contain
A. chlorophyll
B. haemoglobin
C. antibodies
D. insulin
Answer: B. Haemoglobin
Explanation: Haemoglobin combines with oxygen and helps transport it around the body.
Respiration, Excretion and Coordination
Question 17
Anaerobic respiration in human muscles may lead to the production of
A. lactic acid
B. oxygen
C. urea
D. glucose
Answer: A. Lactic acid
Explanation: When oxygen is insufficient during vigorous activity, muscle cells can release energy anaerobically, producing lactic acid.
Question 18
The major organ responsible for the removal of nitrogenous waste from the blood is the
A. heart
B. kidney
C. lung
D. skin
Answer: B. Kidney
Explanation: The kidneys filter the blood, remove metabolic wastes and help regulate water and salt balance.
Question 19
A reflex action is best described as a
A. slow voluntary response
B. rapid automatic response to a stimulus
C. learned behaviour only
D. response controlled exclusively by hormones
Answer: B. Rapid automatic response to a stimulus
Explanation: Reflex actions are rapid and automatic responses that often help protect the body from harm.
Question 20
The part of the nervous system that coordinates many reflex actions is the
A. spinal cord
B. retina
C. cochlea
D. pancreas
Answer: A. Spinal cord
Explanation: Many simple reflex actions are coordinated through the spinal cord, allowing a rapid response.
Reproduction and Growth
Question 21
Fertilisation is the fusion of
A. two body cells
B. male and female gametes
C. two embryos
D. two tissues
Answer: B. Male and female gametes
Explanation: Fertilisation occurs when male and female gametes unite to form a zygote.
Question 22
The male reproductive part of a typical flower is the
A. stigma
B. style
C. ovary
D. stamen
Answer: D. Stamen
Explanation: The stamen consists mainly of the anther and filament and produces pollen grains.
Question 23
Asexual reproduction differs from sexual reproduction because it generally
A. involves fusion of gametes
B. involves one parent and no fusion of gametes
C. always produces variation
D. requires fertilisation
Answer: B. Involves one parent and no fusion of gametes
Explanation: Asexual reproduction generally occurs without the fusion of male and female gametes.
Question 24
Growth in living organisms involves a permanent increase in
A. temperature only
B. size and dry mass
C. water content only
D. movement
Answer: B. Size and dry mass
Explanation: Biological growth is a permanent increase in size and usually involves an increase in cellular material or dry mass.
Ecology
Question 25
Organisms of the same species living in the same habitat form a
A. community
B. population
C. ecosystem
D. biosphere
Answer: B. Population
Explanation: A population consists of organisms of the same species living in a particular area at a given time.
Question 26
Green plants occupy which trophic level in a food chain?
A. Producer
B. Primary consumer
C. Secondary consumer
D. Decomposer
Answer: A. Producer
Explanation: Producers manufacture organic food, usually through photosynthesis, and form the foundation of many food chains.
Question 27
An organism that feeds on dead organic matter is commonly called a
A. producer
B. decomposer
C. parasite
D. predator
Answer: B. Decomposer
Explanation: Decomposers break down dead organic material and help recycle nutrients within ecosystems.
Question 28
The interaction in which both organisms benefit is known as
A. parasitism
B. predation
C. mutualism
D. competition
Answer: C. Mutualism
Explanation: In mutualism, both organisms benefit from their association.
Question 29
The ultimate source of energy for most ecosystems is the
A. soil
B. Sun
C. decomposers
D. consumers
Answer: B. Sun
Explanation: Solar energy is captured by photosynthetic organisms and transferred through food chains.
Question 30
Which activity is most directly associated with the destruction of natural habitats?
A. Afforestation
B. Recycling
C. Deforestation
D. Conservation
Answer: C. Deforestation
Explanation: Large-scale removal of forests can destroy habitats and reduce biodiversity.
Heredity and Variation
Question 31
The basic unit of heredity is the
A. chromosome
B. gene
C. nucleus
D. gamete
Answer: B. Gene
Explanation: A gene is a unit of hereditary information that influences particular characteristics.
Question 32
Alternative forms of a gene are known as
A. alleles
B. chromosomes
C. tissues
D. phenotypes
Answer: A. Alleles
Explanation: Alleles are alternative forms of the same gene and may influence variations of a trait.
Question 33
The observable characteristics of an organism are referred to as its
A. genotype
B. phenotype
C. chromosome
D. allele
Answer: B. Phenotype
Explanation: Phenotype refers to observable characteristics resulting from the interaction of genetic and environmental factors.
Question 34
A variation caused primarily by differences in an organism’s genetic makeup is described as
A. hereditary variation
B. acquired injury
C. temporary change
D. ecological succession
Answer: A. Hereditary variation
Explanation: Hereditary variation can be passed from parents to offspring through genetic material.
Question 35
Which process contributes directly to the production of gametes?
A. Mitosis only
B. Meiosis
C. Budding
D. Binary fission
Answer: B. Meiosis
Explanation: Meiosis produces sex cells with half the chromosome number of the parent cell.
Evolution and Adaptation
Question 36
Evolution can be broadly described as
A. the immediate change of an individual organism
B. gradual changes in inherited characteristics of populations over generations
C. growth of an organism during its lifetime
D. movement from one habitat to another
Answer: B. Gradual changes in inherited characteristics of populations over generations
Explanation: Evolution concerns changes in populations across generations rather than changes that occur only during an individual’s lifetime.
Question 37
A feature that improves an organism’s ability to survive and reproduce in its environment is an
A. adaptation
B. accident
C. disease
D. mutation only
Answer: A. Adaptation
Explanation: An adaptation is a characteristic that can improve survival or reproductive success in a particular environment.
Biology and Everyday Life
Question 38:
Immunisation helps protect an individual mainly by
A. destroying all body cells
B. stimulating the body’s immune response
C. replacing all blood cells
D. stopping respiration
Answer: B. Stimulating the body’s immune response
Explanation: Vaccination exposes the immune system to an antigen or related component, helping the body develop an appropriate immune response.
Question 39
Antibiotics are generally used to treat infections caused by
A. bacteria
B. all viruses
C. genetic traits
D. nutritional deficiencies
Answer: A. Bacteria
Explanation: Antibiotics are designed to act against bacteria and are not generally effective against viral infections.
Question 40
One important role of microorganisms in agriculture is
A. preventing all decomposition
B. contributing to nutrient cycling
C. stopping plant growth
D. eliminating all soil organisms
Answer: B. Contributing to nutrient cycling
Explanation: Microorganisms help break down organic matter and participate in processes that recycle nutrients in ecosystems.
SEE ALSO: JAMB CBT Questions and Answers for all Subjects
How to Approach JAMB Biology Questions
Read the Question Before Looking at the Options
Many Biology questions contain qualifying words such as:
- Most likely
- Mainly
- Best
- Except
- Not
- Correct
These words can change what the question is asking. Read the stem carefully before selecting an answer.
Focus on Concepts, Not Just Definitions
For example, rather than merely memorising that xylem transports water, understand:
- Where xylem is located.
- What it transports.
- The direction of transport.
- How its structure supports its function.
This makes it easier to answer questions that are worded differently from examples you have seen before.
Eliminate Clearly Incorrect Options
If you are uncertain, remove options that are biologically impossible or unrelated to the question. This can improve your ability to identify the most appropriate answer.
Additional JAMB Biology Practice Questions
Try these questions before checking the answers.
Practice Set
Practice Question 1
Which structure increases the surface area for absorption in the small intestine?
A. Alveolus
B. Villus
C. Nephron
D. Tendon
Answer: B. Villus
Practice Question 2
A relationship in which one organism benefits while the other is harmed is called
A. mutualism
B. commensalism
C. parasitism
D. cooperation
Answer: C. Parasitism
Practice Question 3
Which process is primarily responsible for the loss of water vapour from the aerial parts of a plant?
A. Respiration
B. Transpiration
C. Germination
D. Fertilisation
Answer: B. Transpiration
Practice Question 4
The movement of particles from a region of higher concentration to a region of lower concentration is
A. osmosis
B. diffusion
C. active transport
D. translocation
Answer: B. Diffusion
Practice Question 5
Which of the following can introduce new genetic variation into a population?
A. Mutation
B. Digestion
C. Excretion
D. Transpiration
Answer: A. Mutation
Common Mistakes Candidates Make in JAMB Biology
Memorising Without Understanding
Memorisation can help with terminology, but it is not enough for questions that test relationships between structures, processes and functions.
Better approach: Ask yourself why and how a process occurs.
Confusing Similar Biological Terms
Candidates often confuse:
- Diffusion and osmosis
- Mitosis and meiosis
- Arteries and veins
- Genotype and phenotype
- Population and community
- Mutualism and commensalism
Better approach: Learn the distinguishing feature of each pair and practise applying the terms.
Ignoring Diagrams and Practical Contexts
Biology questions may describe experiments, organisms, ecological situations or body structures. Do not limit your preparation to isolated definitions.
Relying on “Expo” or Unverified Questions
Claims of leaked, guaranteed or “100% sure” JAMB questions should be treated with caution. Such materials are not a substitute for studying the official syllabus and practising legitimate questions.
How to Prepare Effectively for JAMB Biology
Create a Syllabus-Based Study Plan
Divide your revision into manageable topics based on the official syllabus. For each topic:
- Read and understand the concept.
- Take notes in your own words.
- Answer practice questions.
- Review your mistakes.
- Return to difficult areas later.
Use Active Recall
After studying a topic, close your book and try to explain:
- The definition.
- The process involved.
- The importance of the process.
- Examples.
This helps reveal gaps in understanding.
Practise Under Timed Conditions
CBT practice can help candidates become comfortable reading questions on a screen and managing time. However, practising quickly should not come before understanding the subject.
Keep an Error Notebook
Record:
- Questions you answered incorrectly.
- Why your answer was wrong.
- The correct biological principle.
- A similar example.
Reviewing your mistakes can be more valuable than repeatedly answering questions you already understand.
Important JAMB Biology Topics to Prioritise
There is no reliable substitute for studying the entire official syllabus. However, candidates should ensure they understand the foundational concepts across all major syllabus areas, particularly:
- Cells and cell functions
- Classification and diversity of organisms
- Nutrition
- Transport systems
- Respiration and gaseous exchange
- Excretion and homeostasis
- Coordination
- Reproduction and growth
- Ecology
- Heredity and variation
- Evolution and adaptation
- Health and biology in everyday life
The appropriate priority should be guided by the official syllabus objectives rather than claims that certain topics are guaranteed to appear.
How to Verify JAMB Biology Questions and Answers
Check Whether the Source Identifies the Material Correctly
A trustworthy educational resource should clearly state whether its questions are:
- Officially released questions.
- Past questions from a legitimate source.
- Independently created practice questions.
- Illustrative examples.
Be cautious when a website labels every question “official” without evidence.
Compare Topics With the Official JAMB Syllabus
If a practice question tests a topic outside the relevant syllabus, investigate before relying heavily on it. The official syllabus is the best reference point for what candidates are expected to study.
Verify Course and Subject Requirements Separately
Studying Biology does not automatically mean it is the correct UTME subject for every course. JAMB advises candidates to use the IBASS Eligibility Checker to confirm programme requirements and UTME subject combinations for their chosen institutions and courses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Biology an official JAMB UTME subject?
Yes, Biology is one of the approved UTME subjects listed in JAMB documentation for candidates. However, the decision as to whether or not a candidate includes this subject among those he writes depends on the UTME subject requirements of the candidate’s course of choice as published by the candidate’s school of choice in JAMB’s Integrated Brochure and Syllabus System (IBASS).
Where can I find the official JAMB Biology syllabus?
This information is contained in JAMB’s Integrated Brochure and Syllabus System (IBASS) as found in JAMB’s website.
Is it possible to pass JAMB Biology just by studying past questions for the exam?
Studying only past questions for JAMB is not advisable. You need to know the concepts and study using a proper textbook or other learning materials that a candidate can read. Study using the official syllabus for JAMB for that subject.
Are “JAMB Biology expo” or guaranteed questions reliable?
Do not rely on unverified sources which promise guaranteed questions or even solutions to JAMB questions even when such seem very convincing.
How can I confirm the correct subject combination for my course?
Visit JAMB’s Integrated Brochure and Syllabus System (IBASS) to use the Eligibility Checker to confirm the subject combination required for the course you wish to gain admission to.
Final Preparation Checklist for JAMB Biology
- Obtain and review the official JAMB Biology syllabus.
- Understand the objectives under each syllabus topic.
- Study concepts instead of memorising answers alone.
- Practise objective questions regularly.
- Review every incorrect answer.
- Learn to distinguish commonly confused biological terms.
- Practise reading questions carefully under timed conditions.
- Confirm your UTME subject combination for your chosen course.
- Avoid unverified claims about leaked or guaranteed questions.
Conclusion
Remember, doing well in JAMB Biology is all about understanding the JAMB syllabus for the exam and practicing all the time with the aid of the 40 questions and answers in this article, while you study the JAMB Biology syllabus for the exam.
Avoid spending time searching for information on ‘leaked’ questions or ‘guaranteed’ answers for JAMB exams. Get information from JAMB official sources, understand the science behind what you read and learn from your mistakes.
Disclaimer
All the contents on this website are independent educational materials that were written and are published by and are solely responsibility of their respective authors. None of the authors are employees, staff, nor agents of Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). Accordingly, JAMB does not knowingly or intentionally endorse or support any part of this website. However, where a JAMB official is quoted in this website, such quote must be strictly within the provisions of the quote as published by JAMB official in his or her official capacity.
JAMB policies, course requirements, online registration and examination information may change. Always check the latest information on JAMB’s official website and IBASS before registration and admission.
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