English Language is one of the most popular and important courses in Nigeria. As the official language of the country and the primary medium of communication in various sectors, English Language serves as a foundation for careers in education, media, law, public relations, and more. It is also a core subject in national exams like the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the National Examination Council (NECO) exams.
If you plan to study English Language at a Nigerian university, knowing the JAMB subject combination, O’level requirements, and Direct Entry qualifications is crucial. This blog post will guide you through the necessary requirements for admission to study English Language in the 2025/2026 academic session.
JAMB Subject Combination for English Language 2025/2026
For those aiming to study English Language, the required JAMB subject combination includes:
- English Language (Compulsory)
- Literature in English
- Government
- CRK or IRS
This means that to qualify for admission into the English Language program at any Nigerian university, you need to take these four subjects during the JAMB UTME exam.
Minimum JAMB Score Requirement
To be eligible for admission, you must score at least 180 in your JAMB exam. However, many universities have higher cut-off marks, so it’s essential to verify the specific requirements of your preferred institution before applying.
O’level Requirements for English Language 2025/2026
In addition to your JAMB score, universities also require specific O’level subjects. For English Language, you need:
- Five (5) SSCE credit passes, which must include:
- English Language
- Literature in English
- Three (3) other Arts or Social Science subjects.
You must have at least a C6 in each of the five subjects, and they must be obtained in no more than two sittings. You can fulfill these requirements with results from WASSCE, NECO, GCE, or NABTEB, but note that combining different exam bodies in the same sitting is not allowed.
Direct Entry Requirements for English Language 2025/2026
For those applying through Direct Entry, the following qualifications are required:
- Two (2) A-Level passes in Literature in English and one other Arts subject.
- NCE Merit in English and one other Arts or Social Science subject.
- ND Upper Credit in Mass Communication or any other relevant program.
If you meet any of these Direct Entry qualifications, you can gain admission into a Nigerian university to study English Language.
List of Nigerian Universities Offering English Language 2025/2026
Below is a list of Nigerian universities that offer English Language, English Studies, or related courses such as English and Literature:
- Ambrose Alli University (AAU)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
- Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD)
- Ajayi Crowther University (ACU)
- Babcock University (BABCOCK)
- Bayero University (BUK)
- Bowen University (BU)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Nigeria (UNN)
- University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
Additionally, some universities offer English Language under related course titles, such as English and Literature or English Studies, like:
- University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) – English and Literature Studies
- University of Benin (UNIBEN) – English and Literature
- Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA) – English Studies
Make sure to check the specific course names offered by your preferred university.
Conclusion
Studying English Language in a Nigerian university can open numerous career opportunities. However, you must meet the JAMB subject combination, O’level, and Direct Entry requirements to gain admission. This guide has provided you with the information you need to prepare for the 2025/2026 academic session.
FAQs
What are the main subjects required for studying English Language?
The main subjects include English Language, Literature in English, Government, and either CRK or IRS.
Can I combine WASSCE and NECO results to meet the O’level requirements?
Yes, you can combine results, but not from different exam bodies in the same sitting.
What is the minimum JAMB score required for admission?
The minimum score is 180, but some universities may have higher cut-off marks.
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