JAMB Cut-Off Mark for English and Literary Studies 2026/2027

English and Literary Studies is one of the most established undergraduate disciplines in Nigerian universities. As thousands of candidates sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination each year, there is always competition for admission into the discipline. Gaining admission depends on meeting both JAMB cut-off mark and institutional requirements.

What is the JAMB Benchmark for English and Literary Studies 2026?

The general cut-off mark approved by JAMB for admission into universities is usually between 140 and 160, but institutions offering competitive courses like English and Literary Studies often set their internal cut-off higher.

• Federal Universities: 180 to 200 and above
• State Universities: 160 to 190
• Private Universities: From 140 upward

For the 2026/2027 academic year, students targeting federal or top state universities should aim for a JAMB score of 200 or higher to remain competitive, as many institutions rely on a combination of JAMB score and post-UTME or screening results.

General Requirements for Admission

O’Level Subjects: Five credit passes are required. These should include:

• English Language
• Literature in English
• One of Government, History, or CRS/IRS
• Any other two Arts or Social Science subjects

The credits must be obtained in not more than two sittings in exams like WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB.

UTME Subject Combination: Applicants must select the following subjects in UTME:

• Use of English (Compulsory)
• Literature in English
• Any two from CRS, Government, History, or Yoruba/Igbo/Hausa (where accepted)

Direct Entry Admission: Holders of NCE, A-Level, or ND in relevant Arts fields can apply for Direct Entry admission. Subjects must include English Language or Literature. These candidates usually gain admission into 200 level.

Nigerian Universities to Study the Course

The course is widely available in many Nigerian universities. Some of the most notable ones include:

Federal Universities:

• University of Ibadan (UI)
• University of Lagos (UNILAG)
• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
• University of Benin (UNIBEN)

State Universities:

• Lagos State University (LASU)
• Delta State University (DELSU)
• Ekiti State University (EKSU)
• Osun State University (UNIOSUN)
• Imo State University (IMSU)
• Benue State University (BSU)

Private Universities:

• Covenant University
• Babcock University
• Bowen University
• Adeleke University
• Caleb University

These universities offer a broad curriculum covering classic and modern literature, linguistics, rhetoric, oral traditions, and postcolonial literature.

Polytechnic Offering the Course (or Related Program)

Polytechnics do not offer degree programs in English and Literary Studies. However, related courses such as Mass Communication, Library and Information Science, or Languages and Communication are available and can serve as a foundation for students planning to cross over to universities through Direct Entry.

Examples include:

• The Polytechnic Ibadan
• Kaduna Polytechnic
• Federal Polytechnic, Oko
• Auchi Polytechnic

These diplomas are relevant for applicants planning to move into English or Literature-based degrees at the university level.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

Q: What is the minimum JAMB score for English and Literary Studies in 2025?

A: Some schools accept 160, but a score above 200 offers a better chance in top universities.

Q: Can I study the course without Literature in English?

A: No. Literature in English is compulsory in both O’Level and UTME for this course.

Q: Which university is best for English and Literary Studies in Nigeria?

A: University of Ibadan, University of Nigeria Nsukka, and University of Lagos have strong reputations in this field.

Q: Can I study this course without taking Government in UTME?

A: Yes, but you must replace it with another accepted subject like CRS or History.

Q: Is English and Literary Studies the same as English Language?

A: No. English Language focuses on linguistics, while English and Literary Studies includes literature analysis and cultural studies.

Q: Are there jobs for graduates of this course in Nigeria?

A: Yes. Graduates work in media, publishing, teaching, public relations, content creation, and research roles.

Q: Can I do a postgraduate degree after this course?

A: You can further your studies in English Literature, Journalism, Education, or Linguistics.

Q: What is the duration of the program?

A: It lasts four years for UTME students and three years for Direct Entry students.