In Nigeria, several universities and institutions offer specialized or combined degree programs in local, foreign, and classical languages. If you’re planning to pursue a degree in Languages for the 2026/2027 academic session, understanding the admission requirements starting with the JAMB cut-off mark which is the most important.
What is the JAMB Benchmark for Languages in 2026?
For the 2026 session, the general JAMB cut-off marks for Languages are as follows:
- Federal Universities: From 160 and above
- State Universities: Ranges from 150 to 160
- Private Universities: May consider 140 and above
While these are the minimum thresholds, some universities especially those with competitive departments set internal cut-off marks higher than the JAMB benchmark. Candidates with scores closer to 180 or higher have a better chance of securing admission.
General Requirements for Admission
To be eligible for admission into any language-based program in Nigeria, candidates must meet both O’Level and UTME subject requirements.
O’Level (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB):
- Minimum of five credit passes at not more than two sittings
- Subjects must include:
- English Language
- At least one language subject (e.g., French, Igbo, Yoruba, Arabic, etc.)
- Literature in English
- Government, CRS/IRS, or any relevant subject
- Any other Arts or Social Science subject
UTME Subject Combination:
- Use of English (compulsory)
- Literature in English
- A relevant language (e.g., French, Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, Arabic, etc.)
- Government or another Arts subject
Direct Entry (for ND/NCE holders):
- At least two A’Level passes or a merit in NCE in relevant subjects
Nigerian Universities Offering Languages
Numerous universities offer Languages either as single honors, combined honors, or as part of their Arts faculties.
Federal Universities
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
State Universities
- Lagos State University (LASU)
- Ekiti State University (EKSU)
- Delta State University (DELSU)
- Benue State University (BSU)
Private Universities
- Babcock University
- Covenant University
- Lead City University
Polytechnics Offering Related Programs
Although most polytechnics in Nigeria do not run full-fledged degree programs in Languages, some colleges of education and polytechnics offer related courses in linguistics education, communication studies, or general arts, which can serve as a pathway for direct entry into degree-awarding institutions.
Examples include:
- Federal College of Education, Abeokuta
- Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo
- Kaduna Polytechnic
- College of Education, Warri
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the general JAMB score for Languages in 2026?
A: Most universities accept from 150, but 180 is advisable for better chances.
Q: Can I combine WAEC and NECO results for admission?
A: Yes, provided you meet all subject requirements within the two sittings.
Q: Is Literature in English compulsory?
A: Yes, especially for language programs in the Arts faculty.
Q: Which languages can I study at Nigerian universities?
A: Common ones include French, German, Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, Arabic, Chinese, and Linguistics.
Q: What are the career options for language graduates?
A: Teaching, interpreting, translation, publishing, public relations, diplomacy, and content development.
Q: Can I study Language without Government in UTME?
A: Yes, depending on the school, but Government is widely accepted.
Q: Are there scholarships for studying Languages in Nigeria?
A: Yes, some universities and cultural institutions offer language-based scholarships.
Q: Can I study two languages as a combined degree?
A: Some universities offer combined honors such as French/Yoruba or Arabic/Islamic Studies.
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