Are you interested in studying Yoruba in Nigeria? Yoruba is a fascinating language deeply intertwined with the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria. Pursuing a degree in Yoruba not only opens doors to a linguistic journey but also allows you to delve into the heart of Yoruba culture, history, and social dynamics. However, to make this dream a reality, you need to meet the JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) cut-off marks set by Nigerian universities offering this course. In this article, we’ll cover the JAMB cut-off marks for Yoruba for the 2025/2026 academic year, provide insights into universities offering this course, and share tips to help you succeed in your JAMB exams and secure admission.
What is Yoruba?
Yoruba is one of Nigeria’s major languages and is widely spoken in the southwestern region of the country. Part of the larger Niger-Congo language family, Yoruba serves as a mode of communication and a vessel for cultural expression. Studying Yoruba involves exploring the language itself and engaging with the literature, music, folklore, and rich cultural traditions of the Yoruba people. This course is not only for those looking to become linguists but also for students passionate about history, cultural studies, and the arts.
Why Study Yoruba?
A degree in Yoruba offers numerous opportunities in various fields such as education, journalism, cultural studies, tourism, and diplomacy. By learning Yoruba, you can engage more deeply with Nigeria’s diverse cultural fabric, work in educational institutions, contribute to preserving the language, and even work internationally, promoting Yoruba culture. For many students, studying Yoruba is a path to becoming cultural ambassadors who preserve and share the language and culture for generations to come.
Understanding the JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Yoruba (2025/2026)
JAMB is responsible for setting a general admission threshold for all Nigerian universities, but individual institutions often set specific cut-off marks for each course. The cut-off mark for Yoruba varies by university, with some requiring a minimum score of 180, while others set a higher standard at 200. It’s essential to know the cut-off mark for your chosen university, as this determines your eligibility for admission to study Yoruba.
Below is a table showing JAMB cut-off marks for some of Nigeria’s top universities offering Yoruba in the 2025/2026 academic year:
| University | Course | JAMB Cut-Off Mark |
|---|---|---|
| Adekunle Ajasin University | Yoruba | 180 |
| Fountain University | Yoruba | 180 |
| University of Ibadan | Yoruba | 200 |
| University of Ilorin | Yoruba | 200 |
| Obafemi Awolowo University | Yoruba | 200 |
| Olabisi Onabanjo University | Yoruba | 180 |
| Ekiti State University | Yoruba | 180 |
| Lagos State University | Yoruba and Communication Arts | 200 |
| Tai Solarin University of Education | Education and Yoruba | 180 |
| University of Lagos | Education and Yoruba | 200 |
Universities Offering Yoruba in Nigeria and Their JAMB Cut-Off Marks
Let’s explore some of the universities offering Yoruba and their cut-off marks in detail.
1. Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA)
Located in Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, Adekunle Ajasin University offers Yoruba with a JAMB cut-off mark of 180. Known for its serene environment and a strong academic culture, AAUA provides students with a comprehensive education in Yoruba language and culture. Scoring at least 180 in your JAMB exam is essential if AAUA is your top choice.
2. Fountain University
Fountain University in Osogbo, Osun State, is a private institution that offers Yoruba with a JAMB cut-off mark of 180. Fountain University combines academic rigor with a focus on moral values, making it an ideal choice for students interested in a disciplined, value-driven education.
3. University of Ibadan (UI)
As Nigeria’s oldest university, the University of Ibadan holds a prestigious reputation. UI offers Yoruba with a cut-off mark of 200, making it a competitive choice. If you are passionate about Yoruba language and culture, UI is an excellent choice due to its resources, experienced faculty, and high academic standards.
4. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
Located in Ilorin, Kwara State, the University of Ilorin offers Yoruba with a JAMB cut-off mark of 200. Known for its efficient academic calendar and diverse student body, UNILORIN provides an enriching environment for students studying Yoruba.
5. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife is one of Nigeria’s top institutions, offering Yoruba with a JAMB cut-off mark of 200. With a strong focus on arts and humanities, OAU offers a comprehensive curriculum for students interested in Yoruba language and cultural studies.
6. Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU)
Located in Ogun State, Olabisi Onabanjo University offers Yoruba with a cut-off mark of 180. OOU is known for its affordable tuition and student-friendly environment, making it a popular choice among students.
7. Ekiti State University (EKSU)
Situated in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State University offers Yoruba with a JAMB cut-off mark of 180. EKSU has a reputation for academic excellence and a supportive learning environment, ensuring students thrive in their studies.
8. Lagos State University (LASU)
Lagos State University, based in Lagos, offers a unique program combining Yoruba and Communication Arts. The cut-off mark for this program is 200, making it ideal for students interested in media, communication, and language studies.
9. Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED)
Located in Ijebu-Ode, Tai Solarin University of Education specializes in teacher education. It offers Yoruba within its education-focused curriculum with a cut-off mark of 180, making it an ideal option for students who wish to become educators in Yoruba language and cultural studies.
10. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
The University of Lagos, often referred to as UNILAG, offers Education and Yoruba with a cut-off mark of 200. Known for its competitive admission process, UNILAG requires students to achieve high JAMB scores to secure a place in the Yoruba program.
Tips for Meeting the JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Yoruba
To improve your chances of securing admission to study Yoruba, here are some helpful tips:
- Prepare Early: Start your preparation months ahead of the JAMB exams. Focus on subjects related to Yoruba, such as English Language, Literature, and other arts subjects.
- Study Past Questions: Reviewing past JAMB questions gives you a sense of the exam format and common topics. Practice consistently and monitor your improvement.
- Set a Target Score: Aim for a score higher than the minimum cut-off mark for your chosen university. For example, if your preferred institution has a cut-off mark of 200, aim for at least 220 to increase your chances.
- Take Practice Exams: Simulate exam conditions by taking timed practice tests. This helps build confidence and reduces anxiety on exam day.
- Focus on Key Topics: In addition to language skills, familiarize yourself with Nigerian history, literature, and cultural studies as these often overlap with Yoruba studies.
- Seek Guidance: Enroll in a preparatory class or seek tutoring from experts in Yoruba and related subjects.
Frequently Asked Questions about Studying Yoruba in Nigeria
1. What career opportunities are available for graduates with a Yoruba degree?
- Graduates with a degree in Yoruba have diverse career options in education, cultural preservation, tourism, media, and international diplomacy. Some become educators, while others work in government or cultural organizations promoting Nigerian heritage.
2. Can I study Yoruba as a second language if I am not a native speaker?
- Yes, many universities welcome non-native speakers who wish to learn Yoruba. The curriculum often includes beginner courses, so language proficiency is not a strict requirement at the entry level.
3. Do all universities have the same JAMB cut-off mark for Yoruba?
- No, each university sets its own cut-off mark based on competition and capacity. For Yoruba, cut-off marks range from 180 to 200, depending on the university.
Conclusion
Pursuing a degree in Yoruba opens doors to a world rich in culture, language, and heritage. By studying Yoruba, you not only gain linguistic skills but also a deeper appreciation of Nigerian traditions and history. To gain admission, remember to meet the JAMB cut-off mark for your chosen university. With hard work and dedication, you can secure a place in top universities like the University of Ibadan, Obafemi Awolowo University, and Lagos State University.
Set your academic goals, focus on your JAMB preparation, and aim for excellence. Your journey toward studying Yoruba and preserving Nigerian culture begins with a strong foundation, and achieving the JAMB cut-off mark is a crucial first step. Good luck in your academic endeavors, and may you succeed in your goal to study Yoruba in Nigeria for the 2025/2026 academic session!