JAMB

JAMB Subject Combination for International Relations

The official JAMB subject combination for International Relations is English Language (compulsory), Government, and any two of Economics, History, Geography, or Literature in English.

Score at least 140 in JAMB UTME and meet your university’s O’Level requirements, like 5 credits in English, Maths, Government, and two others.

Jump directly to: Key Takeaways | O’Level Requirements | Top Universities | FAQs

Essential Key Takeaways for JAMB International Relations

  • English is mandatory; pair Government with Economics/History for the strongest applications.
  • Over 70% of successful candidates choose economics as their fourth subject, based on trends from JAMB’s official brochure.
  • Target universities like UI, OAU, and UNILAG require minimum JAMB scores of 200+ for a competitive edge.
  • Prepare early: I scored 256 in JAMB by focusing on past questions from JAMB’s official site.

Why Getting Your JAMB Subjects Right Matters for International Relations

When I first set out to study international relations back in 2018, I nearly derailed my admission by picking the wrong subjects. Picture this: weeks of intense preparation wasted because I overlooked the specifics in the JAMB brochure.

Today, as someone who’s navigated this path and mentored dozens of students into top programs, I can tell you that nailing the subject combination isn’t just a formality; it’s your ticket to programs at elite universities like the University of Ibadan or Obafemi Awolowo University.

International relations demands a blend of political insight, economic awareness, and historical context. The subjects reflect that: Government builds your diplomacy foundation, economics sharpens policy analysis skills, and history provides the global timeline. According to JAMB’s 2024 statistics, over 45,000 candidates applied for social science courses, with International Relations seeing a 15% uptake increase due to rising interest in global affairs careers.

Official JAMB UTME Subject Combination Explained

Let’s break it down precisely. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board mandates:

Use the English language (compulsory for all courses; tests communication essential for diplomacy negotiations).

Plus Government (core for understanding political systems, treaties, and international law).

Any two from: Economics (global trade dynamics), History (colonial legacies and conflicts), Geography (geopolitics and borders), and Literature-in-English (rhetoric and discourse analysis).

I remember choosing economics and history myself. Economics helped me grasp trade wars during my undergrad thesis on US-China relations, while history contextualized events like the Cold War. Avoid random picks; data from Myschool.ng shows mismatched subjects cause 20% of admission rejections.

Complete O-Level Requirements for International Relations Admission

Beyond UTME, your WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB results must shine. Universities enforce five credits, including mathematics, English language, government, and two relevant subjects like economics or history. Minimum grade: C6 or better.

Core Subjects Breakdown

  • English Language: Builds argumentative writing for policy papers.
  • Government: Direct prerequisite; I got a B2 here, which boosted my post-UTME score.
  • Economics: Vital for 80% of programs; simulates real-world fiscal policy debates.

Pro Tip from Experience

“In my first year counseling session, I advised a student to retake Economics WAEC. She combined it with government and aced UNN’s screening, landing a scholarship,” I shared during a webinar last year.

Best Universities Offering International Relations and Their Cutoffs

I’ve toured campuses and spoken with admissions officers. Here’s where dreams become degrees:

University of Ibadan (UI)

Cutoff: 250+ JAMB. “UI’s program shaped my worldview; simulations of UN assemblies were game-changers,” I recall from alumni meets. Contact: admissions@ui.edu.ng | Website

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

Cutoff: 240+. Renowned for research, my mentee published on the African Union early. Phone: +234 803 123 4567 (admissions line).

University of Lagos (UNILAG)

Cutoff: 260+. Urban edge with NGO partnerships. Check unilag.edu.ng for updates.

Real review from a 2025 graduate: “OAU’s IR department connected me to a UN internship straight out of school.” Source: Student forum on Nairaland.

Step-by-Step Preparation Strategy I Used to Score High

  1. Download Brochure: Get it from the JAMB Brochure. I printed mine and highlighted IR specifics.
  2. Past Questions: Solve 20 years’ worth; patterns repeat. Apps like JAMB CBT Practice helped me hit 85% accuracy.
  3. Mock Exams: Simulate test day; time management won me extra points.
  4. Post-UTME Prep: Universities like ABU add screenings and focus on current affairs via BBC or Al Jazeera.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your JAMB Registration

I’ve seen it all: friends swapping geography for CRS, only to change courses mid-year. Stick to the combo. Another pitfall: ignoring Direct Entry options for ND/HND holders, who need the same subjects plus relevant qualifications. Always verify via JAMB’s portal or helpline at 08034565135.

Frequently Asked Questions on JAMB International Relations Subjects

What is the exact JAMB subject combination for International Relations?

English, Government, and any two of Economics, History, Geography, or Literature. Confirmed via official JAMB guidelines.

Can I use CRS instead of economics for international relations?

No, stick to the listed options. Universities reject mismatches during screening.

Which university has the lowest cutoff for International Relations?

OAU and UNN are often around 220, but aim higher for merit lists. Check annually on JAMB CAPS.

Is math compulsory for International Relations O’Levels?

Yes, five credits, including math and English. Some private polys waive it, but federal unis enforce it.

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Israel Umar
Israel Umar

Determined and Stubborn It || Corporate Hustler 💼 Contact Me Via WhatsApp.

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