If you’re eyeing Social Work for your university adventure in 2026, you’re probably asking yourself: “Which subjects do I actually need for JAMB?” Believe me, this is a question that can make or break your admission chances, and it’s one you definitely don’t want to guess on.
First things first: Social Work is part of the Social Sciences family. Unlike some STEM courses where the subjects are obvious (Math, Physics, Chemistry), Social Work needs a slightly different mix. The key here is understanding the difference between core and optional subjects, and how JAMB expects you to structure your four-subject UTME registration.
In JAMB 2026, every candidate must register four subjects. One is compulsory for everyone: Use of English. This is non-negotiable. You can’t escape it, and it’s often where a lot of people trip up. Think of it as your base – your “entry ticket” – and everything else builds on it.
For Social Work, there are also core subjects that are considered mandatory by almost all Nigerian universities offering the course. These are the subjects that JAMB absolutely expects you to take if you want your registration to be valid:
Core Subjects:
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Use of English (compulsory)
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Government
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Economics
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CRS/IRS
Now, here’s where it gets interesting. While these core subjects are expected, JAMB gives candidates a little flexibility through optional subjects. Not all universities are rigid; some allow you to swap CRS for IRS or vice versa. Others might let you pick Literature in English or History as an additional subject depending on your academic strengths.
The reason for this flexibility is simple: Social Work thrives at the intersection of society, policy, and human behavior. JAMB wants to ensure candidates are well-rounded but also allows you to highlight your strengths with one optional subject.
So here’s how it usually works:
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You must pick the three core subjects in addition to Use of English. That’s your main four-subject framework.
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If your university accepts alternatives, you can add a fifth subject in your registration, but JAMB will only count the four most relevant ones. This is particularly useful if you’re deciding between CRS and IRS or considering Literature for a more humanities-oriented university.
Optional Subjects for Social Work:
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CRS or IRS (you pick one)
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Literature in English
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History
This means you might end up registering like this: Use of English, Government, Economics, CRS. Or if your university prefers IRS, you can swap CRS for IRS. Some candidates even go for Literature in English instead of CRS/IRS if their exam center allows it, but make sure you confirm with the JAMB brochure for 2026.
The takeaway? Don’t just tick boxes. Think strategically. Choose the optional subject that aligns with your strengths and the university’s requirements. Your choice could slightly affect your score and your admission chances, so it’s worth being thoughtful.
In short, Social Work in 2026 is about balancing the compulsory JAMB requirements with a little room for personalization through optional subjects. Stick to the core, understand your options, and you’ll be set up for UTME success.
Summary for Registration:
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Use of English (compulsory)
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Government (core)
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Economics (core)
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CRS or IRS (core/optional depending on university)
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Optional additions: Literature in English, History
Once you nail these choices, your Social Work JAMB registration is solid and future-proof for 2026 admissions.