Studying law in Nigeria is a prestigious and rewarding career choice, as lawyers are among the highest-paid professionals in the country. A legal career offers opportunities to impact society, uphold justice, and influence lives positively. To pursue a law degree in Nigerian universities, candidates must meet specific requirements set by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). One of the most critical aspects of this process is selecting the correct subject combination for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Choosing the right subjects ensures eligibility for admission and prevents disqualification due to incorrect subject choices.
JAMB Subject Combination for Law
The JAMB UTME subject combination for law in Nigeria for the 2025/2026 academic session is designed to test skills relevant to legal studies, such as communication, critical thinking, and knowledge of governance. The required subjects are:
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English Language: Compulsory for all JAMB candidates, as it is the official language of instruction in Nigeria. It tests comprehension, grammar, and communication skills, which are vital for legal practice.
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Literature in English: Essential for developing analytical and interpretive skills, as it exposes students to various forms of writing and critical analysis, which are integral to studying law.
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Government or History: These subjects provide foundational knowledge of Nigeria’s political and legal systems or historical contexts, which are relevant to legal studies.
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Any other Arts or Social Science subject: Candidates can choose one additional subject, such as Economics, Christian Religious Studies (CRS), Islamic Religious Studies (IRS), Commerce, or Geography, based on their strengths and university preferences.
This combination applies to law programs, including Civil Law, Common Law, and Islamic/Sharia Law, unless otherwise specified by the university. Some institutions may accept Science subjects (e.g., University of Ibadan) or have specific preferences (e.g., Ahmadu Bello University prioritizes Arts subjects). Always consult the JAMB brochure or the university’s admission guidelines for institution-specific requirements.
O’Level Requirements
In addition to the JAMB UTME subject combination, candidates must meet O’Level requirements through WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB. The minimum requirement is five credit passes in not more than two sittings, including:
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English Language: A credit pass is mandatory for effective communication and comprehension in legal studies.
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Mathematics: Required by most universities, though some (e.g., University of Nigeria, Nsukka) may accept a pass.
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Literature in English: Essential for developing language and analytical skills critical for law.
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Two other subjects: These can be from Arts or Social Sciences (e.g., Government, Economics, CRS/IRS, Commerce) or, in some cases, Science subjects, depending on the university.
Some universities have stricter requirements, such as requiring all five credits in one sitting (e.g., University of Ibadan) or a credit in Mathematics (e.g., University of Benin, University of Uyo). Candidates should verify specific requirements with their chosen institutions.
Direct Entry Requirements
For candidates applying through Direct Entry, the requirements include:
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A minimum of five O’Level credit passes, as outlined above, in not more than two sittings.
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At least two A’Level passes in Arts or Social Science subjects, or a National Diploma (ND), National Certificate of Education (NCE), or a First Degree with a minimum of Second Class Lower in a relevant field.
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A competitive score in the JAMB Direct Entry examination.
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Meeting university-specific departmental requirements.
Key Considerations
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University Variations: While the standard JAMB subject combination is English Language, Literature in English, Government/History, and one other Arts or Social Science subject, universities like UNILAG may accept Economics or Commerce (but not both), while UNN does not require Mathematics at O’Level.
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Cut-off Marks: The general JAMB cut-off mark for law is 180, but competitive universities often require 270 or higher. Post-UTME scores and O’Level grades also significantly influence admission chances.
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Age Requirement: Candidates must be at least 16 years old by October 31 in the year of admission.
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Preparation: Scoring above 250 in JAMB and performing well in Post-UTME increases admission chances, especially in competitive institutions.
READ ALSO: Top 10 Nigerian Universities That Consider Low JAMB Scores (160–180)
FAQs
Is Mathematics compulsory for law in JAMB?
No, Mathematics is not required for the JAMB UTME subject combination for law. However, a credit pass in Mathematics is mandatory at the O’Level for most universities, except for institutions like UNN, which may accept a pass.
Can I study law without Literature in English?
No, Literature in English is compulsory for the JAMB UTME and O’Level requirements in most Nigerian universities, as it enhances language and analytical skills essential for legal studies.
Can I use CRS or IRS as my fourth subject in JAMB?
Yes, Christian Religious Studies (CRS) or Islamic Religious Studies (IRS) are acceptable as the fourth subject, depending on your interest and the university’s preferences.
What is the minimum JAMB cut-off mark for law?
The general cut-off mark for law is 180, but top universities like UNILAG, UI, or UNIBEN often require scores of 270 or higher. Check your chosen university’s specific cut-off mark.
Can I use two sittings for my O’Level results?
Yes, most universities accept O’Level results from two sittings, but some, like the University of Ibadan, may require all credits in one sitting.
Which universities offer law in Nigeria?
Top universities offering law include University of Lagos (UNILAG), University of Ibadan (UI), University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), University of Benin (UNIBEN), and Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), among others.
Can I replace Government with History in JAMB?
Yes, either Government or History is acceptable as the third subject in the JAMB combination for law, as both provide relevant knowledge of governance and legal systems.
Is Economics a compulsory subject for law in JAMB?
No, Economics is not compulsory but can be chosen as the fourth subject if it aligns with your strengths and the university’s requirements.
What happens if I choose the wrong subject combination?
Choosing an incorrect subject combination may lead to disqualification, regardless of your JAMB score. Always verify the combination with the JAMB brochure or your preferred university.
