WAEC Subject Combination for 2026 Examination (Science, Arts & Commercial)
Many students are online browsing about Choosing the correct WAEC subject combination for 2026 examination, This is one of the most important decisions senior secondary school students must make. Your subject combination not only determines your eligibility for WAEC but also plays a major role in university admission, career path, and course selection.
OVERVIEW
For the 2026 WAEC examination, English Language, Mathematics, and Civic Education remain compulsory for all candidates. In addition, every student must register at least one Trade or Entrepreneurship subject, while selecting other electives based on their chosen field of study: Science, Arts, or Commercial.
WAEC allows candidates to register a minimum of seven (7) and a maximum of nine (9) subjects in total.
Core Subjects for All WAEC Candidates
Regardless of your field of study, the following subjects are compulsory:
English Language
Mathematics
Civic Education
These subjects are mandatory and must be passed to qualify for the WASSCE certificate and for most tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
SEE ALSO:
WAEC Timetable 2026: Latest Updates, How to Get It & Exam Guidelines
WAEC Further Mathematics Syllabus 2026/2027 & Recommended Textbooks
Fields of Study in WAEC 2026 (Science, Arts & Commercial)
The Senior Secondary School curriculum under WAEC is broadly grouped into three major fields:
Science
Arts
Commercial
Each field has specific subjects designed to prepare students for higher education and career opportunities in that area, always check and verify very well before choosing your subjects combination by Visiting WAEC OFFFICIAL WEBSITE https://www.waeconline.org.ng/.
Contents
WAEC Subject Combination for Science Students 2026/2027
WAEC Subject Combination for Arts Students 2026/2027
WAEC Subject Combination for Commercial Students 2026/2027
WAEC Trade Subjects 2026/2027
WAEC Subject Combination for 2026 Examination (Science, Arts & Commercial)
WAEC Subject Combination for Science Students 2026/2027
Science students are trained for careers in medicine, engineering, technology, environmental science, and pure sciences. Most science subjects involve practical examinations, especially Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
The core subjects for science students include:
English Language
Mathematics
Civic Education
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
Other optional subjects science students may choose include:
Further Mathematics
Geography
Agricultural Science
Technical Drawing
Computer Studies
Nigerian Languages (Yoruba, Igbo, or Hausa)
Students are advised to select subjects based on school facilities, especially laboratory availability, and their intended university course.
WAEC Subject Combination for Arts Students 2026/2027
Arts students focus on humanities, languages, history, law, and social studies. Some subjects may overlap with other fields, giving students flexibility in career choices.
The core subjects for arts students are:
English Language
Mathematics
Civic Education
Literature in English
Government or History
Christian Religious Studies (CRS) or Islamic Religious Studies (IRS)
One Nigerian or foreign language (Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, French, or Arabic)
Additional electives may include:
Economics
Agricultural Science
Music
Fine Arts
Arts students should choose subjects that align with courses such as Law, Mass Communication, Education, Languages, and Political Science.
WAEC Subject Combination for Commercial Students 2026/2027
Commercial students are prepared for careers in business administration, accounting, economics, banking, and entrepreneurship. This field emphasizes financial literacy and management skills.
The core subjects for commercial students include:
English Language
Mathematics
Civic Education
Economics
Financial Accounting
Commerce
Other useful electives are:
Government
Office Practice
Marketing
Bookkeeping
Further Mathematics
Agricultural Science
Biology
Commercial students should choose subjects based on future plans such as Accounting, Economics, Business Management, or Banking and Finance.
WAEC Trade Subjects 2026/2027
WAEC introduced Trade and Entrepreneurship subjects to promote skill acquisition, self-reliance, and job readiness. Every candidate must register at least one trade subject.
There are over 30 approved WAEC trade subjects, some of which include:
Animal Husbandry
Auto Mechanic
Carpentry and Joinery
Catering Craft Practice
Data Processing
Garment Making
Plumbing and Pipe Fitting
Welding and Fabrication
Salesmanship
Some trade subjects involve practical assessments, while others are theory-based. Students should choose a trade subject that matches their interest and practical ability.
Important Notes for WAEC Candidates
Candidates must register 8 or 9 subjects, including compulsory and trade subjects
Subject choices should align with future university course requirements
Schools may restrict subject availability based on facilities
Students are advised to consult school counselors before final registration
Conclusion
Selecting the correct WAEC subject combination for 2026 Examination (Science, Arts & Commercial) is a strategic step toward academic and career success. Whether you are a science, arts, or commercial student, choosing the right subjects will improve your chances of gaining admission into your desired institution and excelling in your chosen field.
Always plan ahead, understand your strengths, and make informed decisions before registration. Making decisions before online registration is advisable for candidates who want to sit for WAEC 2026 Examination Because it will help them make best subject combination decision.
