The JAMB IRS syllabus outlines the major themes and topics in Islamic Religious Studies that candidates are expected to understand before sitting for the UTME. The exam tests your grasp of Qur’anic teachings, Hadith, Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh), and early Islamic history.
Objectives of the JAMB IRS Syllabus
By the end of your studies, you should be able to:
- Understand the historical and spiritual significance of the Qur’an and Hadith.
- Apply Islamic teachings to personal, social, and ethical life.
- Explain major themes of Islamic history and jurisprudence.
- Interpret Qur’anic verses and Prophetic traditions in context.
JAMB IRS Syllabus Topics for 2025/2026
1. The Qur’an and Hadith
- Revelation of the Qur’an: Makkan and Madinan Surahs
- Compilation and Preservation of the Qur’an
- Tafsīr (Interpretation): Methods and Importance
- Selected Surahs (with Tafsir and themes):
- Surah Al-Fātiḥah
- Surah Al-Nās
- Surah Al-Falaq
- Surah Al-Ikhlāṣ
- Surah Al-Kāfirūn
- Surah Quraysh
- Surah Al-Mā’ūn
- Surah Al-Tīn
- Surah Al-‘Asr
- Surah Al-‘Alaq
- Surah Al-Qadr
- Surah Al-Bayyinah
- Surah Al-Zalzalah
- Hadith:
- Compilation and significance
- The six sound books (Ṣiḥāḥ Sittah)
- Ḥadīth 1–20 from An-Nawawi's collection
2. Tawḥīd and Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence)
- Tawḥīd (Islamic Monotheism):
- Belief in Allah
- Shirk and its implications
- Angels, books, messengers, the Last Day, Qadar
- Fiqh Topics:
- Acts of worship: Ṣalāt, Ṣawm, Zakāt, Ḥajj
- Tahārah (cleanliness)
- Marriage and Divorce
- Halāl and Harām
- Crime and Punishment in Islam
- Business transactions and ethics
3. Islamic History and Civilization
- Life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW):
- Early life, prophethood, persecution in Makkah
- Hijrah and the Madinan period
- Treaty of Ḥudaybiyyah and Conquest of Makkah
- Farewell Sermon and his death
- Rightly Guided Caliphs (Khulafāʾ al-Rāshidūn):
- Abū Bakr, ‘Umar, ‘Uthmān, and ‘Alī
- Their leadership and achievements
- Spread of Islam in West Africa
- Early scholars and Islamic centers (Timbuktu, Kanem-Bornu, etc.)
4. Morality and Islamic Ethics
- Personal conduct: truthfulness, patience, generosity
- Social conduct: justice, honesty in trade, hospitality
- Prohibited acts: lying, stealing, drinking, adultery
Recommended Study Materials
- JAMB IRS Syllabus (PDF)
- Qur’an with English translation
- An-Nawawi’s 40 Hadith
- Islamic Studies textbooks (SSCE level)
- Past JAMB IRS questions
Exam Tips to Excel in IRS
- Memorize Short Surahs: Understand their meanings and historical contexts.
- Understand Core Islamic Principles: Like the Five Pillars and Tawḥīd.
- Practice Past Questions: Familiarize yourself with question formats.
- Revise Hadith and Fiqh Concepts: Especially the major schools and practices.
- Study the Prophet's Life Chronologically: It helps in historical questions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How many questions are in JAMB IRS?
A: There are 40 multiple-choice questions in the JAMB IRS section.
Q2: Is IRS compulsory for UTME candidates?
A: No. It's only required for candidates applying for courses related to Islamic Studies, Law (Sharia), or Education in Islamic Religious Knowledge.
Q3: Which textbooks should I use?
A: Use the Islamic Religious Studies for Senior Secondary Schools, Qur’an translations, and An-Nawawi’s 40 Hadith.
Conclusion
Preparing for the 2025/2026 JAMB IRS exam requires understanding the Qur’an, Hadith, Islamic history, and jurisprudence. Stick to the official syllabus, use the recommended materials, and practice extensively. By mastering the outlined topics, you’ll be fully equipped to perform excellently in your UTME.
