Choosing the right JAMB subject combination for History and International Studies in 2026 is one of those decisions that looks simple on the surface but can quietly ruin your admission chances if you get it wrong.
A lot of candidates assume “arts course = any arts subjects,” register confidently, score high, and then hit a brick wall during admission screening. This post is here to make sure that doesn’t happen to you.
Let’s break it down slowly, clearly, and realistically.
What History and International Studies Is Really About
History and International Studies isn’t just about memorizing past events or dates. At university level, the course blends:
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Historical analysis
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Politics and governance
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Diplomacy and foreign relations
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Global conflicts and cooperation
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Policy, power, and international systems
Because of this mix, universities are very specific about the kind of thinking skills they want. That’s why your JAMB subjects must reflect strong reading, analysis, and civic understanding, not just “arts vibes.”
Why Subject Combination Matters More Than You Think
JAMB requires four subjects for UTME:
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One compulsory subject
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Three others tied directly to your course
For History and International Studies, there are:
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Core subjects (non-negotiable)
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Optional subjects (you choose based on preference or strength)
If you replace a core subject with the wrong one, JAMB won’t stop you—but the university will.
Core JAMB Subjects for History and International Studies (2026)
These subjects form the foundation of the course. They are expected by almost all universities offering History and International Studies.
The core subjects are:
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Use of English (Compulsory for all courses)
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History or Government
This is where many candidates already make a mistake. Some schools accept History, others accept Government, and many accept either of the two. That’s why this subject is considered core, but flexible within limits.
If you’re strong in History, choose History.
If Government feels easier or more familiar, choose Government.
The Remaining Subjects: Where You Have Options
After the core subjects, you still need two more subjects to complete the required four.
This is where JAMB gives candidates room to choose — but only from approved options.
Approved Optional Subjects for History and International Studies
You are expected to choose any two from the list below, depending on your strengths:
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Literature in English
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Christian Religious Studies (CRS)
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Islamic Religious Studies (IRS)
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Economics
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Geography
These subjects align with the analytical, social, and interpretive skills needed for the course.
Putting It All Together (How the Combination Should Look)
Here’s how your final JAMB subject combination should be structured:
Core Subjects (Must-Have)
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Use of English
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History or Government
Optional Subjects (Choose Any Two)
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Literature in English
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CRS or IRS
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Economics
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Geography
That makes a total of four subjects, which satisfies JAMB requirements.
Examples of Correct Combinations
To make this more practical, here are examples of combinations that work:
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Use of English, History, Literature in English, CRS
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Use of English, Government, Economics, Geography
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Use of English, History, IRS, Literature in English
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Use of English, Government, CRS, Economics
All of these combinations are valid for History and International Studies in 2026, depending on the institution.
Common Mistakes Candidates Make
These are mistakes you should actively avoid:
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Replacing History/Government with Civic Education
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Using subjects like Commerce or Accounting
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Assuming any four arts subjects will work
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Ignoring university-specific requirements
Remember: JAMB may accept the registration, but universities use the brochure to screen candidates.
Final Advice Before You Register
Before submitting your JAMB form:
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Check the JAMB brochure for your chosen university
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Confirm whether the school prefers History or Government
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Choose optional subjects you can score high in
A correct subject combination plus a strong UTME score puts you ahead of thousands of candidates.