Choosing the wrong subjects can cost you admission, no matter how high your UTME score is. In this blog post, we will cover the accurate subject combination for Sharia Law, O’Level requirements, and some top universities offering the course.
JAMB Subject Combination for Sharia/Islamic Law 2026
To study Sharia Law in Nigeria, the correct JAMB subject combination is:
- Use of English (Compulsory for all courses)
- Islamic Studies (Core subject)
- Arabic or Literature in English
- Any other relevant Art or Social Science subject (e.g. Government, History, CRS)
Important Note: Some universities may require Arabic, while others accept Literature in English. Be sure to check the specific requirements of your chosen university.
O’Level Requirements
You need at least five (5) O’Level credit passes, which must include:
- Islamic Studies or Arabic
- English Language
- Mathematics (some universities waive this)
- Any two other relevant Arts or Social Science subjects (e.g. Government, Literature, CRS, History)
Direct Entry Requirements
If you are applying to study Sharia Law through Direct Entry (DE) instead of UTME, you must meet the following criteria:
- Two (2) A-Level passes in Islamic Studies or Arabic and any other relevant Arts or Social Science subject.
- NCE (National Certificate in Education) with at least Merit in Islamic Studies and one other relevant subject.
- Diploma in Sharia Law or Islamic Studies from a recognized institution with a good grade (usually Upper Credit or Distinction).
- IJMB or JUPEB results in relevant subjects (Islamic Studies/Arabic + any other Art/Social Science subject).
- Higher National Diploma (HND) or ND (National Diploma) in a related discipline (some universities accept this depending on the grade and course relevance).
Nigerian Universities Offering Sharia/Islamic Law 2026
| S/N | Nigerian Universities to Study Sharia/Islamic Law |
| 1 | Bayero University, Kano (BUK) |
| 2 | University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) |
| 3 | Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria |
| 4 | Kogi State University (KSU) |
| 5 | University of Ibadan (UI) |
| 6 | University of Calabar (UNICAL) |
| 7 | University of Jos (UNIJOS) |
| 8 | University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) |
| 9 | Usmanu Danfodiyo University (UDUSOK) |
| 10 | Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK)/ |
FAQs
Not always. While Arabic is highly recommended (especially for Islamic-focused universities), some schools allow Literature in English as a substitute. Always check your chosen university’s requirements.
No. Islamic Studies is compulsory for Sharia Law. It reflects the core focus of the course.
Yes. Most universities in Nigeria accept two sittings (WAEC + NECO or any combination), as long as you meet the subject requirements.
In most universities, yes. After JAMB, many schools conduct Post-UTME screening or exams. Some use screening based on your O’Level and JAMB scores instead.
Yes. Especially in Northern Nigeria and states that practice Sharia legal systems, it is a respected and highly valuable degree with real career paths in law and public service.
