Islamic Religious Studies (IRS) is a vital subject that promotes understanding of Islamic teachings, history, and moral values. If you’re sitting for the WAEC or GCE IRS exam in 2025, this comprehensive guide gives you access to the official syllabus, exam format, and top exam tips to help you pass with distinction.
Objectives of the IRS Exam
The IRS syllabus aims to:
- Help students understand the basic teachings of Islam
- Instill Islamic moral values
- Encourage the application of Islamic principles in daily life
- Promote peace, tolerance, and justice through Islamic teachings
- Prepare students for further studies in Islamic and religious education
WAEC & GCE IRS Exam Structure (2025)
The exam is divided into two main papers:
Paper 1 – Objective (50 Marks)
- 50 multiple-choice questions
- Covers all areas of the syllabus
- Duration: 1 hour
Paper 2 – Essay (100 Marks)
- Divided into Sections A, B, and C
- Answer five questions in total
- Duration: 2 hours
WAEC & GCE IRS Syllabus Topics (2025)
1. The Qur’an and Hadith
- Revelation and compilation of the Qur’an
- Interpretation (Tafsir) of selected verses (e.g., Surah Al-Fatiha, Al-Baqarah, An-Nur, etc.)
- Importance of the Hadith in Islamic teachings
- Classification and authentication of Hadith
- Selected Hadith from An-Nawawi’s collection
2. Tawheed (Unity of Allah)
- Concept of monotheism in Islam
- Attributes of Allah (Asmaul Husna)
- Shirk and its implications
- Belief in angels, books, prophets, Day of Judgment, and predestination (Qadar)
3. Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence)
- Sources of Islamic law: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma, Qiyas
- Acts of worship: Salat, Zakat, Sawm, Hajj
- Family and social life: marriage, divorce, inheritance
- Prohibited acts and punishments (Hudud)
4. Islamic History and Civilization
- Life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in Makkah and Madinah
- Caliphate system: Four Rightly Guided Caliphs
- Major Islamic empires: Umayyads, Abbasids
- Spread of Islam in Nigeria and West Africa
- Jihad of Uthman Dan Fodio
5. Moral Teachings of Islam
- Honesty, justice, patience, and compassion
- Rights and responsibilities in Islam
- Islamic teachings on social justice and equality
- Corruption, bribery, and other vices in the light of Islam
Recommended Textbooks
- Islamic Religious Knowledge for Senior Secondary Schools
- An Introduction to Islam by Abdur-Rahman Doi
- WAEC/GCE IRS Past Questions and Answers
- The Glorious Qur’an with English Translation
- Forty Hadith of An-Nawawi
Exam Tips for WAEC & GCE IRS (2025)
1. Memorize Key Qur’anic Verses and Hadiths
Be able to quote and explain important verses and Hadiths relevant to each topic.
2. Understand, Don’t Just Cram
IRS is not about memorization alone. Understand the context and significance of each topic.
3. Use Arabic Terms Correctly
Proper use of Islamic terms in Arabic can earn you extra marks.
4. Focus on Contemporary Application
Learn how Islamic teachings apply to real-life situations like leadership, justice, and corruption.
5. Practice Essay Writing
Be clear, organized, and concise. Support your answers with evidence from the Qur’an and Hadith.
6. Study Past Questions Regularly
Familiarize yourself with common topics and how questions are framed.
7. Revise Regularly and Pray
Make use of revision timetables, group discussions, and duas (prayers) for success.
FAQs: IRS WAEC & GCE Syllabus (2025)
Q1: Is IRS a compulsory subject in WAEC or GCE?
A: No, it’s an elective subject mostly taken by students in Islamic or arts-based tracks.
Q2: Will I need to write Arabic in the exam?
A: Basic Arabic terms from the Qur’an and Hadith are required, but the exam is mostly in English.
Q3: Can Hadith quotes come directly in the exam?
A: Yes. Candidates are expected to know and interpret selected Hadith from the syllabus.
Q4: Can I use English translations for Qur’anic verses in essays?
A: Yes, but adding the original Arabic verse gives you more marks.
Conclusion
The WAEC & GCE IRS syllabus for 2025 gives you a detailed pathway to study and understand Islam better while preparing effectively for your exam. Stick to the key topics, practice regularly, and keep your faith strong. With the right preparation and mindset, success is within reach.
