Requirements To Study Law In Nigeria. Admission into Law (LL.B) programs in Nigeria requires meeting specific academic and examination standards. Law is one of the most sought-after courses in Nigerian universities, so candidates must carefully meet O’Level and JAMB requirements before registration. This guide provides detailed information to help prospective Law students prepare effectively.
REQUIREMENTS TO STUDY LAW IN NIGERIA
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Candidates must have at least five (5) credit passes in relevant O’Level subjects, including English Language, Literature in English, Mathematics, and two other Arts or Social Science subjects. These credits can be obtained in one or two sittings depending on the university’s policy. Registration for the JAMB UTME is mandatory, selecting Law as the chosen course. Participation in the Post-UTME or screening exercise of the chosen university is also required.
O’LEVEL SUBJECTS REQUIRED
- English Language
- Literature in English
- Mathematics
- Two other Arts or Social Science subjects
JAMB SUBJECT COMBINATION
- English
- Literature in English
- Government or History
- One other Arts or Social Science subject
JAMB Requirements to Study Law in Nigeria
Aspiring law students in Nigeria must meet specific UTME (JAMB) requirements and university criteria to gain admission into a law program. These include:
1. Minimum UTME Score (Cut-Off Marks)
- Most universities require a minimum JAMB score of 200 for law courses.
- Top universities such as University of Lagos, University of Ibadan, and Obafemi Awolowo University often set higher cut-offs, typically between 220 and 250, due to competition.
2. O’Level Requirements
Candidates must have at least 5 credit passes in WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB, including:
- English Language (compulsory)
- Literature in English (preferred in some universities)
- Mathematics
- Any two other relevant subjects (like Government, History, or Economics)
3. Post-UTME Screening
Most universities conduct a post-UTME screening, which may include a written test, online assessment, or interview. Post-UTME scores are combined with JAMB scores to determine final eligibility.
4. Recommended UTME Subjects for Law
Candidates should choose:
- English Language (compulsory)
- Literature in English or a Social Science subject
- Government or History
- Any other approved subject
JAMB Cut-Off Marks for Law in Selected Nigerian Universities
| University | Minimum JAMB UTME Score for Law | Notes / Post-UTME Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| University of Lagos (UNILAG) | 220 | Post-UTME required; highly competitive |
| University of Ibadan (UI) | 230 | Merit-based selection; post-UTME screening |
| Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) | 225 | Post-UTME exam conducted |
| Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) | 200 | Post-UTME screening required |
| University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) | 200 | Post-UTME and interview possible |
| Covenant University | 220 | Post-UTME test + additional assessment may apply |
| Lagos State University (LASU) | 200 | Post-UTME required |
| Bayero University Kano (BUK) | 200 | Post-UTME screening required |
QUICK SUMMARY on Requirements To Study Law In Nigeria
| COURSE | O’LEVEL REQUIREMENTS (MINIMUM 5 CREDITS) | JAMB SUBJECT COMBINATION |
|---|---|---|
| Law (LL.B) | English, Literature in English, Mathematics, +2 Arts/Social Science | English, Literature in English, Government or History, +1 Arts/Social Science |
IMPORTANT NOTES
Candidates must ensure that Literature in English is included in their O’Level results, as it is compulsory for Law admission. High JAMB scores improve chances because Law is competitive. Candidates should also ensure that their O’Level results are correctly uploaded on the JAMB portal, and that the chosen institution’s specific requirements are followed.
COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID
- Omitting Literature in English from O’Level results.
- Choosing wrong JAMB subject combinations.
- Assuming all universities have identical requirements.
- Failing to upload O’Level results on the JAMB portal.
- Neglecting Post-UTME or screening exercises.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Is Literature in English compulsory for Law?
Yes. Most universities require Literature in English for Law aspirants.
2. Can I combine WAEC and NECO results?
Yes. Most universities accept two sittings, including a combination of WAEC and NECO.
3. Can I gain admission with low JAMB score?
Admission into Law is competitive, so low scores significantly reduce chances.
4. Can I change my course after registering for JAMB?
Yes. Change of course is allowed if the new choice matches your O’Level subjects and JAMB combination.
5. Must I upload my O’Level result on the JAMB portal?
Yes. Uploading your O’Level results is mandatory for admission processing.
6. How many sittings are accepted for O’Level results?
One or two sittings are generally accepted depending on the university.
7. Can I study Law without Mathematics?
No. Mathematics is compulsory at O’Level for all Law aspirants.
8. Do all universities have the same requirements for Law?
No. Some universities may have additional requirements or higher cut-off marks.
9. Can I substitute any Arts subject for Literature in English?
No. Literature in English is compulsory and cannot be substituted.
10. What improves my chances of admission into Law?
High UTME score, correct subject combination, strong O’Level grades, and timely participation in Post-UTME or screening exercises significantly improve admission chances.
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