JAMB Subject Combination for Pre-Primary 2026/2027

With Nigeria placing greater importance on Early Childhood Education in its education policy, the demand for skilled pre-primary educators continues to grow. To get started, one of the first and most essential steps is selecting the correct JAMB subject combination for Pre-Primary your UTME registration, followed by meeting other admission requirements which are all provided here.

What is Pre-Primary Education?

Pre-Primary Education, also known as Early Childhood Education, refers to the formal teaching of children from ages 0–5 before they begin primary school. It focuses on developing a child’s early literacy, numeracy, motor skills, emotional development, and social behavior. It plays a crucial role in a child’s lifelong learning path.

JAMB Subject Combination for Pre-Primary Education 2026/2027

1	English Language	Compulsory for all JAMB candidates; essential for communication and literacy development
2	Any two of the following: Government, History, CRS/IRS, Literature, or Arts subjects	Supports child development in ethics, culture, and expression
3	One Teaching Subject (e.g., Mathematics, Biology, Yoruba, Igbo, etc.)	Offers specialization in subjects that can be adapted into early childhood education formats

Why are These Subjects Important?

1	English Language	Foundation for reading, storytelling, and basic communication in the classroom
2	Government/History	Helps build cultural awareness and teaches social norms for use in moral and civic instruction
3	CRS/IRS	Supports moral upbringing, a key part of early education in Nigeria
4	Literature in English	Useful for teaching through stories, rhymes, and creative expression
5	Arts Subjects (Fine Art, Music, etc.)	Encourages creativity and expression, vital for emotional and social development
6	Teaching Subject (e.g., Yoruba, Math)	Equips educators with content knowledge they can simplify and present to preschool children

Institutions Offering Pre-Primary Education in Nigeria

Many institutions in Nigeria offer Pre-Primary Education either directly or under Early Childhood Education or Education and Childhood Studies. Below is a list of some notable ones:

1. University of Ibadan (UI)
2. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
3. Adeyemi College of Education (Affiliated to OAU)
4. Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED)
5. Federal College of Education (FCE), Abeokuta
6. Federal College of Education (FCE), Zaria
7. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
8. University of Lagos (UNILAG)
9. Ekiti State University (EKSU)
10. Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education, Owerri
11. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
12. Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK)

Note: In many universities, the course appears as “Early Childhood Education” or “Childhood and Primary Education.”

Additional Requirements for Admission

For other admission requirements, you must adhere to the following and specifically how the institution you are applying admission into needs:

• O’Level Requirements: At least 5 credits including English Language and any 4 relevant subjects like Literature, CRS/IRS, History, Yoruba/Igbo/Hausa, or Mathematics.
• Direct Entry Candidates: Must possess at least NCE in relevant teaching subjects, including Early Childhood Education or Primary Education Studies.
• Post-UTME: Must pass the screening conducted by your institution of choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is Pre-Primary the same as Early Childhood Education?

A: Yes, most universities list it as Early Childhood Education. It’s essentially the same program.

Q: Is Mathematics compulsory in JAMB for Pre-Primary Education?

A: No, it is not compulsory. However, it may be required at O’Level.

Q: Can I study Pre-Primary Education with CRS and Literature?

A: Yes, both are acceptable and even relevant.

Q: Is Pre-Primary Education available in polytechnics?

A: It is more commonly offered in universities and colleges of education.

Q: What is the course duration for Pre-Primary Education?

A: 4 years for UTME students and 3 years for Direct Entry candidates.

Q: Can I use NCE to apply for Direct Entry into this course?

A: Yes, particularly if your NCE is in Primary Education or related fields.

Q: Is there job demand for graduates of Pre-Primary Education?

A: Yes. With more private and public early learning centres, job demand is increasing.