JAMB Subject Combination for Law – Complete 2026/2027 Guide

If you are planning to study Law in Nigeria, one of the most important steps is selecting the correct JAMB subject combination. Every year, thousands of students lose admission opportunities simply because they selected the wrong subjects during UTME registration. To avoid this mistake, you must know the accurate subject requirements, O’level expectations, university preferences, and general admission guidelines.

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about studying Law in Nigeria, including:

• Correct JAMB subject combination for Law

• WAEC/NECO compulsory subjects

• Direct Entry requirements

• Universities that offer Law in Nigeria

• JAMB cut-off marks

• How to increase your admission chances

• Common mistakes students must avoid

Whether you are preparing for the 2026/2027 JAMB, returning after a previous attempt, or planning ahead, this article gives you a clear roadmap toward securing admission to study Law.

What Is the JAMB Subject Combination for Law?

According to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), the correct subject combination for Law is:

1. Use of English (Compulsory)

2. Literature in English (Compulsory)

3. Government or History

4. Any other Arts or Social Science subject

This is the ONLY officially accepted combination for Law candidates in all accredited Nigerian universities.

Why These Subjects?

Law is an Arts and Social Science–based course. The subjects ensure that candidates possess strong communication skills, historical knowledge, and analytical thinking abilities—key qualities needed for legal studies.

WAEC/NECO Subject Requirements for Law

Before gaining admission, universities also check your O’level (WAEC, NECO, GCE). You must have at least five (5) credit passes obtained in not more than two sittings.

Mandatory WAEC/NECO Subjects for Law:

1. English Language

2. Mathematics

3. Literature in English

4. Government or History

5. Any other Arts or Social Science subject (e.g., CRS/IRS, Economics, Civic Education)

Important Note

While JAMB does not list Mathematics as a compulsory UTME subject for Law, most universities require Mathematics at O’level, so do not ignore it.

Why Literature in English is Compulsory for Law

Some students wonder why Literature is mandatory for studying Law. Here’s why:

• Law involves intensive reading, writing, and comprehension

• Literature helps build argumentative skills

• Law courses require interpretation and language analysis

• Most Nigerian universities insist on Literature as a core entry requirement

Without Literature, you cannot gain admission into any accredited university to study Law.

JAMB UTME Cut-Off Mark for Law (2026/2027)

Law is one of the most competitive courses in Nigeria. Therefore, the cut-off mark is usually higher compared to many other disciplines.

General JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Law:

• Minimum UTME score: 200

• Highly competitive universities: 250 – 280+

• State/Federal universities with moderate competition: 220 – 240+

• Private universities: 180 – 200+

Universities often set their own Post-UTME cut-off mark. To be safe, aim for 260 and above if you want a strong chance.

List of Universities Offering Law in Nigeria

More than 40 universities in Nigeria are accredited by the Council of Legal Education and NUC to offer Law. Below are some of the most reputable:

Federal Universities

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)

• University of Ibadan (UI)

• University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN)

• University of Benin (UNIBEN)

• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria)

• University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

• Bayero University Kano (BUK)

• University of Jos (UNIJOS)

• University of Abuja (UNIABUJA)

State Universities

• Lagos State University (LASU)

• Rivers State University (RSU)

• Delta State University (DELSU)

• Ekiti State University (EKSU)

• Osun State University (UNIOSUN)

• Kogi State University (KSU)

• Benue State University (BSU)

Private Universities

• Afe Babalola University

• Babcock University

• Bowen University

• Nile University

• Igbinedion University

• Lead City University

Before choosing a school, check their specific subject requirements, as some universities prioritize History over Government and vice-versa.

Direct Entry Requirements for Law

For students applying through Direct Entry (DE), the typical requirements include:

1. A’Level Requirements (IJMB, JUPEB, Cambridge):

• Minimum of two A’Level passes in Arts or Social Science subjects (preferably Literature, Government, CRS/IRS, or History)

2. Diploma or NCE Holders:

• A merit pass or above in relevant programs such as

  • Political Science

  • Mass Communication

  • Philosophy

  • International Relations

3. Additional Requirements:

• O’level credits in the five core subjects

• DE applicants may still take the school’s Post-UTME/Screening

Common Mistakes Students Make When Choosing Law Subject Combination

To avoid losing admission opportunities, be careful not to make these errors:

1. Using CRS instead of Literature

Many candidates mistakenly choose CRS as the second compulsory subject. CRS is NOT a substitute for Literature.

2. Ignoring Government/History

One of these must be included. Some universities prefer one over the other, so check before registering.

3. Picking science subjects

Subjects like Physics, Biology, and Chemistry are irrelevant for Law and could get your application rejected.

4. Submitting incomplete O’level results

Even with a high JAMB score, missing Literature or Government credit means automatic disqualification.

Skills Required to Study Law in Nigeria

To succeed as a Law student, you must cultivate certain personal and academic skills:

1. Strong reading culture

2. Effective communication skills

3. Good writing and research abilities

4. Critical thinking and analysis

5. Attention to detail

6. Patience and discipline

7. Consistency in study habits

Law is not a memorization course—it requires deep understanding and interpretation.

What You Will Study as a Law Student (Course Outline)

Nigerian Law faculties usually follow a similar structure. You will encounter courses such as:

Year 1 – Foundation

• Constitutional Law

• Introduction to Legal Processes

• Nigerian Legal System

• Use of English

Year 2 – Intermediate

• Law of Torts

• Law of Contract

• Criminal Law

• Commercial Law

Year 3 – Advanced

• Equity and Trust

• Jurisprudence

• Public International Law

• Administrative Law

Year 4/5 – Senior Level

• Family Law

• Law of Evidence

• Environmental Law

• Company Law

• Legal Drafting

After university, prospective lawyers proceed to the Nigerian Law School, and after passing their exams, they are called to the Nigerian Bar.

How to Increase Your Chances of Gaining Admission to Study Law

Because Law is highly competitive in Nigeria, you must be strategic. Here are practical ways to boost your chances:

1. Aim for 260+ in JAMB

This immediately sets you apart from thousands of other candidates.

2. Score high in Post-UTME

Most universities combine UTME + Post-UTME + O’level for final screening.

3. Choose less-competitive universities

If your score is below 240, consider state or private universities.

4. Make sure your O’level is complete and clean

A single missing credit can cost you admission.

5. Apply early and follow admission updates

Many students miss out simply because they did not keep track of deadlines.

6. Prepare with recommended textbooks

Books like Nigerian Legal System, Idioms and Structure, and Law of Contract help build foundational knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions About Law Subject Combination

1. Can I study Law without Literature in English?

No. Literature is compulsory in both UTME and O’level.

2. Is CRS accepted for Law?

CRS is accepted as the 4th subject, but NOT as a replacement for Literature or Government/History.

3. What is the easiest university to gain admission for Law?

Private universities and some state universities have lower competition.

4. Can science students switch to Law?

Yes, but only if your O’level includes Literature and Government/History.

5. Is Law a good course in Nigeria?

Yes. Law opens opportunities in legal practice, politics, business, public service, and international careers.

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Choosing the correct JAMB subject combination for Law is the first major step toward building a legal career in Nigeria. When you combine the right subjects with excellent UTME scores, complete O’level results, and careful school selection, your chances of securing admission increase significantly.

Law is a prestigious and competitive program, but with proper preparation, discipline, and the right information, you can achieve your dream of becoming a lawyer.