JAMB Subject Combination for English Language
A complete, up-to-date guide to the JAMB UTME subject combination and O-Level requirements for studying English Language in Nigerian universities.
English Language is one of the most popular and versatile Arts courses in Nigerian universities. A degree in English opens doors to teaching, journalism, broadcasting, content writing, public relations, publishing and the civil service. Before you can be admitted, though, you must register the correct JAMB UTME subject combination and meet the required O’Level credits. This guide explains everything you need to know.
JAMB UTME Subject Combination for English Language
Every UTME candidate sits for four (4) subjects. To study English Language, your four subjects must be:
- Use of English — compulsory for all candidates
- Literature in English — compulsory for this course
- Two (2) other subjects chosen from the Arts or Social Sciences
The two remaining subjects give you some flexibility. A clear breakdown is shown below:
| UTME Subject | Status |
|---|---|
| Use of English | Compulsory |
| Literature in English | Compulsory |
| One of: Government, History, CRS/IRS, Economics | Choose 1 |
| One of: Government, History, CRS/IRS, Economics, French, Geography or a Nigerian Language | Choose 1 |
In short: Use of English + Literature in English + two Arts or Social Science subjects. The most popular choices are Government, Christian or Islamic Religious Studies, History and Economics.
O’Level Requirements for English Language
You need at least five (5) credit passes in your SSCE (WAEC, NECO or NABTEB), obtained in not more than two sittings. These five must include:
- English Language
- Literature in English
- Three other relevant subjects, such as Government, History, Economics, CRS/IRS or Mathematics
A credit in Literature in English is essential — most universities will not offer admission for English Language without it.
Direct Entry Requirements
If you are applying through Direct Entry, you typically need one of the following, in addition to the O’Level credits above:
- Two A’Level passes, including Literature in English; or
- NCE with credit or merit passes in English and a second teaching subject; or
- A relevant National Diploma (ND) or first degree.
Universities That Offer English Language
English (also listed as English Language, English and Literary Studies, or English Studies) is offered at nearly every Nigerian university, including the University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Nigeria Nsukka, and many state and private universities. Always confirm the exact course title used by your preferred institution.
Career Opportunities in English Language
- Teaching and lecturing
- Journalism, broadcasting and the media
- Content writing, copywriting and editing
- Public relations and communications
- Publishing and authorship
- Law (through a conversion programme)
- Diplomacy and the civil service
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Literature in English compulsory for English Language?
Yes. Both in the UTME and at O’Level, Literature in English is a required subject for anyone who wants to study English Language.
How many subjects do I register in JAMB for English Language?
Four: Use of English (compulsory), Literature in English, and any two other subjects from the Arts or Social Sciences.
What is the cut-off mark for English Language?
There is no single fixed cut-off mark. It varies from one university to another and changes every year, so check your chosen school’s departmental cut-off after the UTME.
Tip: Requirements can differ slightly between institutions. Always cross-check the current JAMB Brochure and the admission guidelines of your preferred university before registering.
