If you’re planning to study Political Science in 2026, this is one of those moments where getting things right early can save you from serious regrets later.
Every year, thousands of candidates score high in JAMB but still lose admission because of wrong subject combinations. Political Science looks simple on paper, but many students still miss it by choosing the wrong optional subject.
Let’s slow things down and break it properly — no rushing, no confusion.
Why JAMB Subject Combination Matters for Political Science
Political Science is a social science course, but it sits very close to the arts. That’s where most candidates get confused.
Some think:
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“As long as I choose Government, I’m fine.”
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“Any three subjects apart from English should work.”
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“My school will sort it out later.”
Unfortunately, Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board does not fix subject combination errors after registration. Once you submit, that’s it.
So before listing the subjects, you need to understand how JAMB structures Political Science requirements.
How JAMB Structures Subjects for Political Science
JAMB requires 4 subjects in total:
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Use of English – compulsory for everyone
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Core subject(s) – non-negotiable
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Optional subjects – you choose from approved options
Political Science has:
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One major core subject
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Two flexible optional slots
This is where JAMB allows candidates to choose based on strength, background, or university preference.
The Core Subject (This One Is Mandatory)
Government
Government is the heart of Political Science.
It covers:
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Political systems
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Constitutions
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Power, authority, and governance
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Nigerian and international politics
If you do not choose Government, your combination is automatically wrong for Political Science, no matter how high your score is.
There is no replacement for this subject.
Optional Subjects (You Must Choose Two)
After English and Government, JAMB allows you to choose any two from the approved list below.
This is where many candidates panic — but you actually have flexibility.
Approved Optional Subjects for Political Science
You can choose any two of the following:
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Economics
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History
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Literature in English
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CRS (Christian Religious Studies)
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IRS (Islamic Religious Studies)
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Geography
Yes, JAMB allows multiple combinations. You are not expected to pick all of them — just two.
Why These Subjects Are Accepted
Let’s quickly explain why JAMB approves these options.
Economics
Helps with:
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Public policy
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Political economy
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Governance and resource allocation
Very common choice and widely accepted by universities.
History
Builds understanding of:
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Political evolution
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Colonialism
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Nationalism and state formation
Perfect for Political Science, especially in older universities.
Literature in English
Accepted because it develops:
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Critical thinking
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Argument analysis
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Political writing skills
Not compulsory, but useful if you’re strong in reading and interpretation.
CRS / IRS
Religion plays a role in:
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Governance
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Political behavior
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Nigerian politics
JAMB allows either CRS or IRS, not both.
Geography
Relevant to:
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Political boundaries
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Population studies
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Environmental politics
Less common, but still valid.
Recommended JAMB Subject Combinations for Political Science (2026)
Here are safe and popular combinations candidates use every year:
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Use of English
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Government
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Economics
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History
Or:
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Use of English
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Government
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Economics
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CRS / IRS
Or:
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Use of English
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Government
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History
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Literature in English
All of these are valid for JAMB 2026.
Common Mistakes Candidates Make
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Replacing Government with Civic Education
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Choosing three science subjects
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Assuming any arts subject is acceptable
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Ignoring university-specific requirements
JAMB may accept a combination, but some universities are stricter, especially for competitive schools.
Final Advice Before You Register
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Always confirm with the JAMB brochure for your chosen university
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If you’re confused between two optional subjects, pick the one you can score higher in
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Don’t copy a friend’s combination blindly
Political Science is competitive, and subject combination is the first filter.
Summary: JAMB Subject Combination for Political Science (2026)
Core Subjects
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Use of English (compulsory)
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Government (mandatory)
Optional Subjects (Choose Any Two)
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Economics
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History
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Literature in English
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CRS or IRS
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Geography
Once these are correct, you can focus fully on scoring high.