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The West African Examination Council (WAEC) has introduced updated subject options for students preparing for the 2026 examination,PM News has learnt

According to the updated regulations, Science students are no longer eligible to enroll in Economics, and those majoring in Arts who are studying Literature, Government, or History are also prohibited from taking the subject. Only students pursuing Business (Commercial) studies are now allowed to include Economics as one of their subjects.

The WAEC mandates that students enroll in a minimum of seven and a maximum of nine subjects, with English Language and Mathematics being compulsory.

The three required subjects for every student are:

English Language

Mathematics

Civic Education

Science Students (2026/2027)

Science students study subjects that include both practical and theoretical elements. Institutions lacking laboratories can implement an alternative method for practical learning.

Core subjects include:

English Language

Mathematics

Civic Education

Physics

Chemistry

Biology

Optional courses: Additional Mathematics, Geography, Agricultural Science, a regional language (Yoruba, Igbo, or Hausa), and Industrial Graphics.

Arts Students (2026/2027)

Students majoring in the arts study courses that involve languages, written works, and subjects concerning society.

Core subjects include:

English Language

Mathematics

Civic Education

Literature in English

Government or History

Religious Education (CRS or IRS)

A regional language (Yoruba, Igbo, or Hausa)

Optional subject: Economics

Commercial Students (2026/2027)

Students pursuing commerce concentrate on courses related to business, finance, and management.

Core subjects include:

English Language

Mathematics

Civic Education

Economics

Accounting

Commerce

Government

Office Practice

Optional subjects: Additional Mathematics, Accounting, Agricultural Science or Biology, and regional languages.

WAEC Trade Subjects (2026/2027)

There are 35 vocational courses aimed at equipping students with hands-on and business-oriented abilities for independence and job opportunities. Each student is required to enroll in at least one vocational course.

Examples include:

Animal Husbandry

Carpentry and Joinery

Catering Craft Practice

Data Processing

Garment Making

Photography

Welding and Fabrication

GSM Phone Repairs

Marketing

Plumbing

Tourism

Upholstery

How to Choose Subjects

Each student is required to enroll in the three mandatory subjects along with one vocational subject.

Pupils may then select between two and five additional subjects within their area of study (Science, Arts, or Commerce).

Every student is required to enroll in at least eight and no more than nine courses overall.

The new structure, according to WAEC, aims to help students concentrate more and better equip them for future careers or starting their own businesses.