If you’re planning to study Linguistics in a Nigerian university in 2026, this is one of those decisions you really want to get right from the start. A lot of candidates assume Linguistics is “just English” and rush through their JAMB registration — only to find out later that a wrong subject combination quietly disqualified them.
Let’s slow it down, break it properly, and make sure you understand why each subject matters before we finally list the correct JAMB subject combination.
What Linguistics Is Really About (Not the Instagram Version)
Linguistics is the scientific study of language — how languages are structured, how they change, how humans acquire them, and how they’re used in society. It’s not just about speaking English well or liking grammar on Twitter.
In Linguistics, you’ll deal with:
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Sounds of language (phonetics & phonology)
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Sentence structure (syntax)
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Meaning (semantics)
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Language and society (sociolinguistics)
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Indigenous and foreign languages
Because of this broad scope, universities expect students who already have a strong language and humanities foundation. That expectation is reflected clearly in JAMB subject requirements.
How JAMB Subject Combinations Work (Quick Reality Check)
For JAMB UTME:
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You must register 4 subjects
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Use of English is compulsory for all courses
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The remaining 3 subjects must align with your chosen course
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Some courses allow flexibility, but there are always core subjects you must not miss
Linguistics is one of those courses where JAMB gives options, but only after you meet the core requirements.
Core Subjects for Linguistics (Non-Negotiable)
These are the subjects every candidate for Linguistics must have. No shortcuts here.
1. Use of English (Compulsory)
This is automatic for everyone, but for Linguistics candidates, it’s even more important. Universities take English seriously because it’s the primary medium for studying language theory.
2. Literature in English (Core Subject)
This is the most important subject after English for Linguistics.
Why?
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Literature develops deep language awareness
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It exposes you to structure, meaning, and context
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Most universities will not consider Linguistics candidates without Literature
If you remove Literature from your combination, many schools will simply ignore your application.
The Flexible Part: Choosing the Remaining Subjects
After Use of English and Literature in English, JAMB allows flexibility for the remaining subjects. This is where many candidates get confused.
You are expected to choose two more subjects from approved options, depending on your strengths and university preference.
Approved Optional Subjects for Linguistics
You can choose any two of the following:
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Government
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History
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CRS (Christian Religious Studies)
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IRS (Islamic Religious Studies)
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Economics
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Any Nigerian Language (Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa)
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French
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Arabic
Not every university accepts all of these equally, but they are generally approved by JAMB.
Putting It All Together: Correct JAMB Subject Combination for Linguistics 2026
Here is how your final JAMB combination should look:
Core Subjects (Must Be Included)
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Use of English
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Literature in English
Choose Any Two From the Options Below
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Government
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History
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CRS or IRS
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Economics
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Yoruba / Igbo / Hausa
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French
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Arabic
That gives you the required four subjects.
Example Valid Combinations
These are all correct for Linguistics:
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Use of English, Literature in English, Government, CRS
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Use of English, Literature in English, History, Economics
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Use of English, Literature in English, French, Government
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Use of English, Literature in English, Yoruba, History
Common Mistakes Linguistics Candidates Make
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Replacing Literature with English Language again (JAMB won’t count it twice)
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Using Science subjects like Biology, Chemistry, or Physics
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Choosing Commerce instead of Government or History
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Assuming “any four arts subjects” will work
These mistakes are silent killers. JAMB will let you write the exam, but universities won’t consider you.
Final Advice Before You Register
Always:
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Check your preferred university’s requirements in the JAMB brochure
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Prioritize Literature in English
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Choose subjects you can realistically score high in
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Avoid guessing or copying a friend’s combination
For Linguistics, clarity beats vibes. Choose smart, not random.