Subject overview
This is the official JAMB UTME English Language syllabus scope.
Official syllabus Content is taken from the official JAMB UTME syllabus (IBASS). Last checked: 17 Sept 2026. Always confirm at jamb.gov.ng.
Your progress
Mark topics as you go to track your readiness.
Study the syllabus below, then test yourself. Move each topic from Not started → Learning → Practising → Mastered.
General objectives
The English Language syllabus is designed to test candidates' ability to:
- expose candidates to the varieties and functions of the English language;
- test candidates' ability to communicate effectively in spoken and written English;
- assess comprehension, vocabulary (lexis) and knowledge of English structure;
- test the ability to read and understand a prescribed text.
How this paper is examined
Use of English is a Computer-Based Test of 60 multiple-choice questions worth 100 marks — the only subject with more than 40 questions. It is compulsory for every candidate and there is no negative marking, so attempt all 60. It is taken alongside your three other subjects, for 180 questions in two hours overall.
How to use this syllabus: don't just read it — turn each topic into a checklist. Study a topic, then immediately practise questions on it so the knowledge sticks. Give extra time to the sections that carry the most topics, and revisit weak areas with timed practice as the exam approaches.
Topics & recommended order
Work through these topics in order. Mark each one as you go — your progress is saved on this device.
1. Comprehension passages
Not startedComprehension / Summary · Study
2. Summary and cloze
Not startedComprehension / Summary · Study
3. Synonyms
Not startedLexis and Structure · Study
4. Antonyms
Not startedLexis and Structure · Study
5. Sentence interpretation
Not startedLexis and Structure · Study
6. Sentence completion and structure
Not startedLexis and Structure · Study
7. Oral forms: vowels and consonants
Not startedOral Forms · Study
8. Oral forms: rhymes and stress
Not startedOral Forms · Study
9. The prescribed reading text
Not startedReading Text · Study
Full English Language syllabus
Every section and topic below is from the official JAMB syllabus, reproduced faithfully.
SECTION A: COMPREHENSION / SUMMARY
1. Comprehension passages
- reading passages followed by questions on content, meaning and inference;
- identifying main ideas, supporting details and the writer's purpose and attitude.
2. Summary / cloze
- following the development of an argument or narrative;
- selecting the best word or phrase to complete a passage (cloze).
SECTION B: LEXIS AND STRUCTURE
1. Synonyms
- choosing the word or phrase nearest in meaning to a given word.
2. Antonyms
- choosing the word or phrase most nearly opposite in meaning.
3. Sentence interpretation
- choosing the option that best explains a given sentence or expression.
4. Sentence completion / structure
- choosing the option that correctly completes a sentence;
- applying the rules of English grammar (concord, tenses, word order).
SECTION C: ORAL FORMS
1. Vowels and consonants
- identifying words with the same or different vowel/consonant sounds.
2. Rhymes and stress
- identifying rhyming words;
- choosing the correct word stress or emphatic stress in a sentence.
SECTION D: THE PRESCRIBED READING TEXT
1. The recommended novel
- questions on the plot, characters, setting, themes and lessons of the current JAMB reading text;
- confirm the current prescribed text on the official syllabus before you study.
Recommended next steps
Study: Synonyms · Subject combination checker · CBT practice · All subjects
Frequently asked questions
How many questions is Use of English in JAMB?
60 multiple-choice questions — more than any other subject (others have 40). It is compulsory for every candidate.
How long do I have for Use of English?
The UTME is two hours for all four subjects — about 40 seconds per question. Read comprehension passages efficiently.
Is Use of English compulsory?
Yes — compulsory for every JAMB candidate, and its 60 questions make it the highest-weighted single paper.
How is the syllabus structured?
Four areas: Comprehension/Summary, Lexis and Structure, Oral Forms, and the prescribed reading text. See the topics on this page.
What is the JAMB reading text this year?
JAMB prescribes a novel each session and about 10 English questions come from it. The title changes — confirm the current text on the official syllabus and read the novel itself.
What should I focus on most?
Comprehension and lexis/structure carry the most questions — build vocabulary and grammar and practise reading under time. Don't neglect oral forms or the novel.
Does JAMB repeat past questions in English?
The format is stable, so the same question types recur. Practise many past-style questions — never rely on 'expo'.
Is there negative marking?
No. Attempt all 60 questions — a wrong answer simply scores zero.
How can I improve my vocabulary?
Read widely and note new words with meanings and opposites. Vocabulary rewards steady reading, not cramming.
How can I practise Use of English on Belmadeng?
Free CBT practice with explanations, including synonyms and antonyms. Study, then test yourself.
Source: official JAMB UTME English Language syllabus (IBASS, jamb.gov.ng). Reproduced for study use. Last checked: 17 Sept 2026. Belmadeng is not affiliated with JAMB — always confirm the current syllabus on the official portal.