WAEC Syllabus for Islamic Religious Studies 2026

Preparing for the WAEC Islamic Religious Studies (IRS) 2026 exam becomes much easier when you understand the official syllabus. This syllabus outlines exactly what WAEC expects you to study, the topics to focus on, and the areas where questions will come from.

IRS is a subject that strengthens your understanding of Islam, its teachings, beliefs, history, morals, and the life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). This content breaks everything down in a simple, humanised way to help you study better and score high.

Why the WAEC IRS Syllabus 2026 Is Important

Using the syllabus helps you:

Know the exact topics WAEC will set questions on
Avoid reading irrelevant or outdated content
Organise your study schedule
Understand key Islamic teachings clearly
Prepare confidently for both objective and theory questions

With the right preparation, scoring an A in IRS is very achievable.

Full Breakdown of the WAEC IRS Syllabus 2026

WAEC divides the IRS syllabus into major areas that cover the Qur’an, Hadith, Islamic faith, history, and morals. Below is the simplified, easy-to-read guide.

1. The Qur’an (Tajwīd, Understanding, and Interpretation)

You will study:

Selected Surahs
Their meanings and lessons
Tajwīd rules and correct recitation
How Qur’anic teachings guide everyday life

Students must understand the themes, morals, and messages in the selected verses.

2. Hadith (Teachings of Prophet Muhammad SAW)

This section includes:

Selected Hadiths
Explanation and application of their meanings
Qualities of a good Muslim
The Sunnah and how it guides Islamic lifestyle

You will be tested on understanding, interpretation, and real-life application of the Hadiths.

3. Tawheed (Islamic Belief System)

Topics include:

The Oneness of Allah
Attributes of Allah
Angels and their duties
Divine books
Prophets and messengers
The Hereafter (Akhirah)
Qadar (predestination)

You must know the beliefs that form the foundation of Islam.

4. Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence)

This section covers:

Acts of worship (Ibadah)
Prayer (Salah)
Fasting (Sawm)
Zakat and charity
Hajj and Umrah
Marriage and family laws
Business transactions in Islam
Halal and Haram

WAEC often asks application-based questions here.

5. Islamic Ethics and Morals (Akhlaq)

You will learn:

Qualities of a good Muslim
Honesty, patience, kindness, humility
Relationship with neighbours
Respect for parents
Modesty and self-discipline
Avoiding bad habits and immoral behaviour

These topics focus on building sound character.

6. Islamic History (Seerah & Khulafa’u Rashidun)

This part explores:

The life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW)
His challenges, teachings, and achievements
The migration (Hijrah)
Battles of Islam (Badr, Uhud, Khandaq, etc.)
The Caliphs: Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and Ali
Contributions of early Muslims to Islamic civilisation

These historical events help you understand the development of Islam.

7. Islam in West Africa

WAEC also tests:

The spread of Islam in West Africa
Early scholars and Islamic centres
Islamic culture and education
Role of Islam in shaping societies

This section connects history with modern Islamic practice in the region.

8. Contemporary Islamic Issues