The English Language remains the most important subject in the JAMB UTME examination because it is compulsory for all candidates, regardless of the course or institution you’re applying to. In fact, every JAMB candidate must write Use of English alongside three other subject combinations.
If you want to score high in JAMB 2025, practicing with JAMB English past questions and answers (PDF format) is one of the smartest moves you can make. Over the years, JAMB repeats questions, sometimes word-for-word, and candidates who practice past questions regularly often find the exam much easier.
In this detailed article, we’ll cover:
- Why you must study JAMB English past questions
- Where to download JAMB English past questions (PDF)
- How to effectively use past questions in your study
- Common topics and repeated areas in JAMB Use of English
- Sample questions with solutions
- Tips to score 70+ in English in the 2025 UTME
- Useful internal and external resources for deeper learning
Related: Best Study Tips for JAMB 2025 UTME
Why JAMB English Past Questions Are Important
- Repetition of Questions – JAMB often recycles questions. A candidate who has solved past questions can recognize familiar ones in the exam.
- Understanding the Exam Pattern – Past questions help you understand how questions are structured, timed, and categorized.
- Time Management – Practicing past questions enables you to simulate real exam speed.
- Boosts Confidence – Solving previous questions reduces exam fear and builds confidence.
- Identifies Weak Areas – You can track whether comprehension, lexis & structure, or oral forms give you trouble.
Related: How to Pass JAMB in One Sitting
Structure of JAMB English Examination
The JAMB Use of English exam usually consists of 60 questions divided into:
- Comprehension & Summary – Reading passages and answering questions.
- Lexis & Structure – Vocabulary, synonyms, antonyms, idioms, sentence completion.
- Oral Forms – Stress patterns, phonetic transcription, and pronunciation.
- Registers & Communication – Language in specific contexts (e.g., law, medicine, business).
Each section tests different skills, and practicing past questions helps candidates prepare across all areas.
Related: JAMB Subject Combination for All Courses 2025
Where to Download JAMB English Past Questions (PDF)
You can download JAMB English Past Questions & Answers (PDF) from:
- Educational websites like Brivana.com.ng that provide free learning resources.
- JAMB CBT practice apps (available on Google Play Store and iOS).
- Educational bookshops that sell compiled past question booklets.
Note: Always ensure your source is reliable, so you don’t download outdated or incorrect answers.
Related: Best JAMB Past Questions and Answers 2025
How to Use JAMB Past Questions Effectively
- Practice by Topic – Focus on comprehension one day, oral English the next.
- Simulate Exam Conditions – Set a timer and solve 60 questions within 60 minutes.
- Review Mistakes – Learn why your answers were wrong by checking explanations.
- Repeat Practice – Go over the same set multiple times to master patterns.
- Track Progress – Note improvements in speed and accuracy after weeks of practice.
Also read: How to Prepare for JAMB 2025 UTME
Commonly Repeated JAMB English Questions
Some patterns that often repeat include:
- Comprehension passages testing inference and main ideas.
- Idioms & Proverbs such as “a stitch in time saves nine.”
- Synonyms/Antonyms – testing vocabulary depth.
- Oral English – stress on words like import (noun vs verb).
- Registers – professional terms in medicine, law, and business.
Related: JAMB Syllabus for English 2025
Sample JAMB English Questions & Answers (With Solutions)
Question 1 (Comprehension)
Read the passage and answer the question:
“Despite several warnings, the villagers continued to throw waste into the river, leading to severe pollution.”
Question: What is the main idea of the passage?
- A) The villagers were warned about flooding.
- B) The villagers polluted the river despite warnings.
- C) Pollution was caused by the government.
- D) The villagers stopped polluting the river.
Answer: B) The villagers polluted the river despite warnings.
Question 2 (Lexis & Structure)
Choose the word nearest in meaning to “elated”:
- A) Angry
- B) Joyful
- C) Confused
- D) Sad
Answer: B) Joyful
Question 3 (Oral Forms)
The stress in the word “Photography” falls on:
- A) First syllable
- B) Second syllable
- C) Third syllable
- D) Fourth syllable
Answer: C) Third syllable (pho-TO-graphy).
Related: Best Books for JAMB English Preparation
Tips to Score 70+ in JAMB English
- Read Daily – Improve comprehension speed.
- Expand Vocabulary – Learn 5 new words daily.
- Practice Phonetics – Use online dictionaries for word pronunciation.
- Take Mock Tests – Test yourself under timed conditions.
- Focus on Weaknesses – Don’t just study what you’re good at.
Related: How to Pass JAMB Without Stress
Conclusion
Scoring high in JAMB English is achievable with the right preparation. Past questions remain the most reliable tool because they expose you to JAMB’s question style, repeated topics, and time management strategies.
By practicing JAMB English past questions & answers (PDF format) daily, reviewing mistakes, and following exam strategies, you can secure a high score that brings you closer to admission success in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on JAMB English Past Questions & Answers (PDF)
1. Why should I study JAMB English past questions?
Studying past questions helps you understand JAMB’s exam pattern, identify frequently repeated questions, and improve speed and accuracy. Many questions are recycled from previous years, so practicing gives you a strong advantage.
2. Can I download JAMB English past questions in PDF format?
Yes. Several educational websites, including Brivana.com.ng, provide JAMB English past questions in PDF format. You can also get them from mobile apps, bookshops, or JAMB-approved study platforms.
3. Are the answers in JAMB past questions reliable?
Most reliable sources provide correct answers. However, avoid random online downloads without verification because some may contain errors. Always cross-check with recommended textbooks or verified resources.
4. Does JAMB repeat English questions every year?
Yes. JAMB often repeats similar questions across comprehension passages, lexis and structure, synonyms, antonyms, and oral forms. The wording may change slightly, but the style remains consistent.
5. How many questions are in JAMB Use of English?
JAMB Use of English usually has 60 questions, divided into comprehension, lexis & structure, oral English, and registers/communication. Candidates must answer all within the exam time.
6. Can I pass JAMB English without studying past questions?
While it’s possible, it’s not advisable. Past questions give you the best preparation since they reflect the actual exam style. Candidates who rely only on textbooks without practicing past questions often struggle with time management.
7. Where can I buy JAMB English past questions in hard copy?
You can get hard copies from major bookshops, JAMB tutorial centers, or accredited CBT centers. Many candidates prefer the PDF version because it’s portable and easy to practice on mobile phones.
8. How can I use JAMB English past questions effectively?
- Practice under timed conditions.
- Focus on your weak areas.
- Solve by topics (comprehension today, oral English tomorrow).
- Review mistakes and repeat until you master them.
9. Are JAMB English past questions free?
Some websites and apps provide free downloads, while others sell compiled versions at a small fee. On Brivana.com.ng, you can access free guides and practice resources.
10. Can I use JAMB past questions for WAEC or NECO English exams?
Yes, but with caution. While the style of questions overlaps (especially in comprehension and vocabulary), JAMB English is structured differently. WAEC/NECO may require essay writing, while JAMB is strictly objective.
11. How early should I start practicing past questions?
The best time to start is at least 6 months before your JAMB exam. This allows you to cover enough topics, understand question patterns, and build confidence before the real test.
12. Will studying only past questions guarantee admission?
No. Admission depends on your overall score and the cut-off mark of your chosen institution. While past questions prepare you for JAMB, you must also meet departmental and institutional requirements.