Choosing the right JAMB subject combination for Literature in English in 2026 is one of those decisions that looks simple at first… until it’s not.
A lot of candidates assume Literature in English is “just reading novels and poems,” so any Arts subject should work. That assumption has cost many students admission — even with high JAMB scores.
Before we list the subjects, let’s slow down and understand why subject combination matters, what JAMB expects, and how universities actually screen candidates.
Why JAMB Is Strict About Subject Combinations
JAMB does not only test intelligence; it tests academic readiness.
Literature in English as a course is deeply connected to:
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language mastery
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critical reading
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interpretation of texts
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understanding social, political, and religious contexts
Because of this, JAMB and Nigerian universities insist that candidates show strength in language-based and humanities subjects, not random combinations.
Even if your score is excellent, a wrong subject choice can quietly disqualify you during admission processing.
That’s why this guide breaks things down carefully — not rushed, not confusing.
How Many Subjects Are Required for Literature in English?
For JAMB 2026, you must register four (4) subjects in total:
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One compulsory subject
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Three other relevant subjects
Some of these subjects are core and non-negotiable.
Others are optional, meaning you choose based on availability, strength, or university preference.
Let’s break it down properly.
Core JAMB Subjects for Literature in English (Compulsory)
These subjects are mandatory for Literature in English. You do not have alternatives here.
1. Use of English (Compulsory for All Courses)
This is compulsory for every JAMB candidate, regardless of course.
For Literature in English candidates, this subject is especially important because:
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it tests comprehension and vocabulary
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it reflects your readiness for advanced literary analysis
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many universities place extra emphasis on English performance
You cannot replace this subject.
2. Literature in English (Core Subject)
This is the heart of the course.
If you do not choose Literature in English, you are not eligible for the programme — no matter what else you pick.
JAMB expects candidates to already have:
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experience reading set texts
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familiarity with drama, prose, and poetry
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the ability to analyze themes and characters
This subject must appear in your JAMB combination.
Optional JAMB Subjects for Literature in English (Choose Carefully)
After the two core subjects above, JAMB requires two additional subjects.
This is where candidates often get confused.
You are not expected to choose all of them.
You are expected to choose any two from the accepted options below.
Accepted Optional Subjects
You can choose any two of the following, depending on your strength and university requirements:
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Government
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History
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Christian Religious Studies (CRS)
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Islamic Religious Studies (IRS)
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Economics
These subjects work because they:
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strengthen your understanding of society, politics, and belief systems
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support literary interpretation and contextual analysis
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align with university Arts and Humanities requirements
Putting It All Together: Recommended JAMB Subject Combinations
Here is how your final JAMB combination should look.
Core Subjects (Always Required)
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Use of English
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Literature in English
Optional Subjects (Choose Any Two)
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Government
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History
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CRS or IRS
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Economics
Example Valid Combinations
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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, Government, IRS
As long as the two core subjects are present, and your other two come from the accepted list, you are on the safe side.
Important Notes for JAMB 2026 Candidates
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Some universities may prefer Government or History over Economics
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Religious Studies (CRS/IRS) are widely accepted, especially in federal universities
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Avoid unrelated subjects like Mathematics, Physics, or Chemistry for this course
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Always confirm with the JAMB brochure for your chosen institution
Literature in English is competitive, especially in universities with strong Arts faculties. A correct subject combination gives you a clean start before your score is even considered.
Final Advice
If you enjoy reading, analyzing ideas, and expressing thoughts clearly, Literature in English is a solid choice. But passion alone isn’t enough — strategy matters.
Choose subjects that tell JAMB and universities one clear message:
“I am prepared for language, texts, and critical thinking.”