Civil Law is one of the most sought-after and competitive courses in Nigeria. Many students dream of studying it in renowned universities across the country. However, gaining admission into Civil Law programmes requires meeting certain criteria, such as obtaining a strong O’level result, performing well in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), and excelling in post-UTME screening.
One of the key factors that influences your chances of securing admission is the JAMB cut-off mark. The cut-off mark represents the minimum UTME score required to qualify for admission. Each academic year, this benchmark changes based on candidates’ performance and available spaces.
This article outlines the JAMB cut-off mark for Civil Law for the 2025/2026 academic session and explores departmental and post-UTME cut-off marks for top Nigerian universities offering Civil Law.
What You Should Know About the Course “Civil Law”
Civil Law focuses on the legal systems, principles, and rules governing interactions between individuals and entities within society. It is often compared to Criminal Law, which addresses offences and penalties enforced by the state. Civil Law encompasses various branches, including Contract Law, Tort Law, Family Law, Property Law, Commercial Law, Constitutional Law, Administrative Law, Human Rights Law, and Environmental Law.
Several Nigerian universities, such as the University of Lagos, University of Ibadan, University of Nigeria (Nsukka), and the National Open University of Nigeria, offer Civil Law as a course. These institutions prepare students for diverse roles within the legal profession, including work in courts, law firms, corporations, government agencies, and NGOs. Civil Law also covers comparative and historical perspectives, along with contemporary challenges faced by the legal system in Nigeria and beyond.
Duration and Curriculum
The course duration typically ranges from four to five years, depending on the institution and mode of study. The curriculum includes both core and elective courses that balance theory with practical applications.
- Core Courses: Legal Methods, Logic and Philosophical Thought, Nigerian Legal System, Constitutional Law, Law of Contract, Law of Torts, Land Law, Equity and Trusts, Law of Evidence, and Civil Procedure.
- Elective Courses: Family Law, Environmental Law, Taxation, Banking and Insurance Law, Intellectual Property Law, Oil and Gas Law, Islamic Law, and Criminology.
Assessments include written exams, essays, projects, moot court exercises, and legal clinical education. Grading follows a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) system, ranging from First Class to Pass.
Admission requirements vary between universities but generally include strong O’level results, a good UTME score, and an impressive post-UTME performance.
Career Opportunities for Civil Law Graduates
Studying Civil Law opens up numerous career options, such as:
- Legal Roles: Lawyer, Judge, Magistrate, Arbitrator, Mediator, Legal Adviser, and Consultant.
- Other Professions: Legal Researcher, Academic, Activist, or Journalist.
Graduates can also pursue advanced degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Civil Law or related fields to further their expertise.
JAMB Cut-Off Mark for Civil Law (2025/2026)
For the 2025/2026 academic session, the general JAMB cut-off mark for Civil Law is set at 160. This means candidates need a minimum score of 160 in the UTME to be eligible for admission into Civil Law programmes at federal and state universities in Nigeria. However, scoring 160 does not guarantee admission, as other requirements must also be met.
Departmental Cut-Off Marks for Civil Law
The departmental cut-off mark varies by institution and is usually higher than the general cut-off due to the competitive nature of the course. Factors influencing these benchmarks include:
- Number of applicants
- Available spaces
- Candidates’ overall performance
Post-UTME Cut-Off Marks for Civil Law
The post-UTME cut-off mark depends on your chosen university and is based on an aggregate of your UTME and O’level results. This supplementary test evaluates your aptitude and suitability for the course.
For specific details on departmental and post-UTME cut-off marks, visit the official website of your preferred university.
Nigerian Universities Offering Civil Law
Only a few universities in Nigeria offer Civil Law as a course. Among the most reputable are:
- Gregory University – General cut-off mark: 160
- Olabisi Onabanjo University – General cut-off mark: 160
These universities maintain high academic standards and have consistently produced successful graduates in the field of Civil Law. Due to their competitiveness, students must prepare thoroughly to secure admission.
Tips for Scoring High in JAMB UTME for Civil Law
To increase your chances of meeting the required cut-off marks for Civil Law, follow these strategies:
- Start Early: Begin studying well in advance to avoid last-minute cramming.
- Review the Syllabus: Familiarise yourself with the JAMB syllabus and focus on key subjects like English, Mathematics, Literature, and Government.
- Utilise Quality Resources: Use reliable textbooks, online courses, videos, podcasts, and blogs to strengthen your knowledge. Joining study groups or hiring a tutor can also be beneficial.
- Practice Regularly: Take mock tests and solve past questions under exam conditions. Tools like the JAMB practice app can help you simulate the real exam experience.
- Manage Time Effectively: Allocate sufficient time to each question during the exam and skip those you find difficult to revisit later.
- Stay Positive: Maintain confidence, avoid panic, and believe in your abilities. A positive mindset can significantly impact your performance.
Conclusion
Civil Law is a prestigious and rewarding course that offers vast opportunities for a successful career in the legal profession. To gain admission, you must meet the JAMB cut-off mark of 160 for the 2025/2026 session, as well as the specific departmental and post-UTME requirements of your chosen university. By preparing thoroughly and practising consistently, you can increase your chances of achieving your goal of studying Civil Law in Nigeria.
FAQs
- What is the JAMB cut-off mark for Civil Law in 2025/2026?
The general cut-off mark is 160. - Can I apply for Civil Law with a JAMB score below 160?
No, a score of 160 is the minimum requirement for eligibility. - Where can I find updates on Civil Law cut-off marks?
Visit the official website or portal of your preferred university for the latest information.