WAEC Islamic Studies Syllabus 2027/2028 Questions PDF Download

Download the WAEC Islamic Studies Syllabus 2027/2028 PDF and see the complete Tarikh, Qur’an, Hadith, Tawhid, Fiqh topics and examination structure.

The WAEC Islamic Studies Syllabus 2027/2028 contains the topics you need to study for Islamic Studies in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination.

The syllabus covers the historical development of Islam, the Qur’an, Hadith, Islamic theology and Islamic jurisprudence. It is designed to test not only your knowledge of Islamic teachings but also your understanding of their spiritual, moral, socio-economic and practical application in everyday life.

READ: Access 2027 WAEC Questions and Answers in all Subjects – Free Study Guide

ALSO READ: WAEC Specimens 2027

The four major parts of the syllabus are:

• Tarikh — Historical Development of Islam
• Qur’an
• Hadith
• Tawhid and Fiqh — Islamic Theology and Jurisprudence

READ ALSO: WAEC Syllabus 2027/2028 PDF Download for All Subjects

Download WAEC Islamic Studies Syllabus 2027/2028 PDF

You can download the complete WAEC Islamic Studies Syllabus 2027/2028 PDF and use it as your main revision checklist.

The syllabus covers topics such as:

• Arabia Before Islam
• Jahiliyyah
• Life of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.)
• Hijrah
• Madinan Constitution
• Battles of Badr, Uhud and Khandaq
• Treaty of Hudaybiyyah
• Conquest of Makkah
• Farewell Pilgrimage
• Khulafā’ur-Rāshidīn
• Islam in West Africa
• Revelation of the Qur’an
• Preservation of the Qur’an
• Makki and Madani Suwar
• Selected Suwar
• Moral Lessons From the Qur’an
• Hadith and Sunnah
• Parts of Hadith
• Classification of Hadith
• Sihahus-Sittah
• Selected Hadith From an-Nawawi
• Iman
• Articles of Faith
• Shirk
• Taharah
• Salat
• Sawm
• Zakat
• Hajj and ‘Umrah
• Shari‘ah
• Nikah
• Talaq

Use the PDF together with your Islamic Studies textbooks, Qur’an, Hadith materials and WAEC past questions.

Aims and Objectives of the WAEC Islamic Studies Syllabus

The syllabus is designed to assess your knowledge of:

• The historical and contemporary development of Islam and the lessons that can be learnt from them.
• The spiritual, moral, socio-economic and intellectual roles of Islam in society.
• The practical application of Islamic teachings in daily life.

This means your preparation should go beyond memorising names and definitions. You should also understand the significance and lessons of the events, teachings and practices you study.

WAEC Islamic Studies Examination Structure

The examination consists of two papers, Paper 1 and Paper 2.

Both papers form a composite paper and are taken at one sitting.

WAEC Islamic Studies Paper 1

Paper 1 contains 50 multiple-choice questions.

You are required to answer all the questions within 50 minutes.

The paper carries 50 marks.

Questions can be drawn from all four major parts of the syllabus, so you should revise the complete syllabus.

WAEC Islamic Studies Paper 2

Paper 2 consists of six essay questions.

One question is compulsory.

You are required to answer:

• The compulsory question
• Any three of the remaining optional questions

This means you answer four questions altogether.

The paper lasts 2 hours and carries 100 marks.

For Paper 2, practise explaining events, teachings, differences, significance and lessons in complete points.

Complete WAEC Islamic Studies Syllabus 2027/2028

The detailed syllabus is divided into:

1. Tarikh
2. Qur’an
3. Hadith
4. Tawhid and Fiqh

Part 1 Tarikh Historical Development of Islam

Tarikh covers:

• The Jahiliyyah
• Life of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.)
• Khulafā’ur-Rāshidīn
• Islam in West Africa

The Jahiliyyah Arabia Before Islam

You should study the condition of Arabia before the advent of Islam.

Important areas include:

• Location of Arabia
• Social Life
• Religious Life
• Political Life
• Economic Life
• Reforms Introduced by Islam

Social Life in Pre-Islamic Arabia

The syllabus specifically includes:

• Marriage
• Divorce
• Inheritance

You should understand the practices that existed during the Jahiliyyah period and the changes introduced by Islam.

Religious Life Before Islam

Study:

• Idol Worship
• Major Gods and Idols

Understand the religious condition of Arabia before Islam.

Political Life Before Islam

Study the system of government that existed in Arabia before Islam.

Economic Life Before Islam

Know the important sources of livelihood among the people of Arabia.

Reforms Introduced by Islam

You should be able to explain how Islamic teachings reformed the social, religious and other practices associated with the Jahiliyyah period.

Life of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W.

The life of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) is one of the major Tarikh topics.

The syllabus covers:

• Birth
• Marriage
• Call to Prophethood
• Mission
• Hijrah
• Formation of the Ummah
• Madinan Constitution
• Leadership Qualities
• Battles
• Treaty of Hudaybiyyah
• Conquest of Makkah
• Farewell Pilgrimage
• Death

Birth and Early Life of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W.

Study the important events surrounding his birth and early life within the scope of your Islamic Studies course.

Marriage of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W.

Understand the relevant events concerning his marriage as covered in your syllabus and textbooks.

Call to Prophethood

Study:

• Call to Prophethood
• Beginning of His Mission
• Nature of His Mission

You should understand the significance of the call and the challenges associated with spreading Islam.

Hijrah

The syllabus specifically requires:

• Causes of the Hijrah
• Course of the Hijrah
• Significance of the Hijrah

Do not study Hijrah simply as an event.

Be prepared to explain why it happened, how it happened and why it was important.

Formation of the Ummah

Study the establishment of the Muslim community in Madinah.

Madinan Constitution

You should understand the formation and importance of the Madinan Constitution within the development of the Muslim community.

Leadership Qualities of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W.

Study the leadership qualities demonstrated by the Prophet and the lessons that can be learnt from them.

Your answers should connect historical events with leadership lessons where appropriate.

Battles of Badr Uhud and Khandaq

The syllabus specifically includes:

• Battle of Badr
• Battle of Uhud
• Battle of Khandaq

For each battle, prepare:

Causes → Course → Effects

Battle of Badr

Study:

• Causes
• Major Events
• Outcome
• Effects
• Lessons

Battle of Uhud

Prepare:

• Causes
• Course
• Effects
• Lessons

Battle of Khandaq

Study the events surrounding the Battle of Khandaq and its effects.

Treaty of Hudaybiyyah

The syllabus requires knowledge of:

• Terms
• Outcomes

Also understand its significance in the development of Islam.

Conquest of Makkah

Study the events connected with the Conquest of Makkah and the lessons that can be learnt from them.

Farewell Pilgrimage

Prepare:

• Description of the Farewell Pilgrimage
• Farewell Sermon
• Lessons From the Sermon

The lessons are particularly important because the syllabus repeatedly emphasises applying Islamic teachings to life.

Death of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W.

Study the circumstances surrounding the conclusion of the Prophet’s life within the scope of the syllabus.

The Khulafā’ur-Rāshidīn

The syllabus covers the four Rightly Guided Caliphs:

• Abu Bakr Ibn Abī Quhhāfah
• ‘Umar Ibn al-Khattāb
• ‘Uthmān Ibn ‘Affān
• ‘Ali Ibn Abī Tālib

For each Caliph, study:

• Biography
• Contributions to Islam
• Lessons Learnt From His Life

Abu Bakr

Prepare his:

• Background
• Leadership
• Contributions
• Important Events
• Lessons

Umar Ibn al-Khattab

Study his biography, administration, contributions to Islam and leadership qualities.

Uthman Ibn Affan

Give attention to his life and contributions, including the areas covered in your Islamic Studies lessons.

Ali Ibn Abi Talib

Study his biography, contributions and lessons that can be drawn from his leadership.

How to Study the Rightly Guided Caliphs

Use the same revision structure for each one:

Background → Becoming Caliph → Major Achievements → Challenges → Contributions → Lessons

This makes comparison easier.

Islam in West Africa

The syllabus requires knowledge of both the spread and impact of Islam in West Africa.

Study the role of:

• Traders
• Teachers
• Murābitun
• Sufi Orders
• Mujaddidun or Reformers
• Hajj

in the spread of Islam.

Traders and the Spread of Islam

Understand how trade and contact between Muslim merchants and West African communities contributed to the spread of Islam.

Teachers

Study the contribution of Islamic teachers to religious education and the development of Muslim communities.

Sufi Orders

Understand their role in the spread and development of Islam in West Africa.

Mujaddidun Reformers

Study the contribution of reformers to Islamic development in the region.

Hajj and the Spread of Islam

Understand how pilgrimage and contact with other Muslim societies contributed to Islamic development in West Africa.

Impact of Islam in West Africa

The syllabus specifically requires the impact of Islam on:

• Socio-Political Life
• Economic Life
• Linguistic Life

among the peoples of ancient West African empires including:

• Ghana
• Mali
• Songhai
• Kanem-Borno

Part 2 Qur’an

The Qur’an section covers:

• Revelation
• Preservation
• Importance
• Selected Suwar
• Moral Lessons

Revelation of the Qur’an

Study:

• Visits of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) to Cave Hira
• First Revelation
• Prophet’s Reaction
• Different Modes of Revelation
• Piecemeal Revelation of the Qur’an

Cave Hira

Understand the significance of Cave Hira in relation to the beginning of revelation.

First Revelation

Study the circumstances surrounding the first revelation and the Prophet’s reaction.

Modes of Revelation

The syllabus requires knowledge of the different modes through which revelation came.

Piecemeal Revelation

Understand that the Qur’an was revealed over a period rather than as one complete book at once, and study the significance within your course.

Preservation of the Qur’an

Important areas include:

• Complete Arrangement
• Makki and Madani Suwar
• Recording
• Compilation
• Standardization
• Roles of the Companions

Makki and Madani Suwar

You should understand the distinction between:

• Makki Suwar
• Madani Suwar

and the characteristics taught in your Islamic Studies course.

Recording of the Qur’an

Study how the Qur’an was recorded during the early period of Islam.

Compilation of the Qur’an

Understand the stages involved in bringing the Qur’anic text together.

Standardization of the Qur’an

Study the process and importance of standardization.

Roles of the Companions

Know the contributions made by the Companions of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) to the preservation of the Qur’an.

Importance of the Qur’an

The syllabus describes the Qur’an as a source of guidance in:

• Social Matters
• Political Matters
• Spiritual Matters
• Moral Matters

You should be able to explain its importance in these areas.

Selected Suwar for WAEC Islamic Studies

You are expected to prepare the reading in Arabic text or transliteration, memorization, meaning and lessons of selected portions of the Qur’an.

The syllabus specifically requires:

• Identification
• Explanation
• Interpretation
• Application

Suratul Fatihah

Study:

• Reading or Transliteration
• Memorization
• Meaning
• Lessons
• Application

Reference: Qur’an 1

Suratud Duha

Reference: Qur’an 93

Prepare its meaning and lessons.

Suratut Tin

Reference: Qur’an 95

Study the text or transliteration, meaning and lessons.

Suratul Alaq

The syllabus specifically covers:

Qur’an 96:1–5

Prepare:

• Reading
• Memorization
• Meaning
• Lessons

Suratul Qadr

Reference: Qur’an 97

Suratul Kafirun

Reference: Qur’an 109

Suratun Nasr

Reference: Qur’an 110

Suratul Ikhlas

Reference: Qur’an 112

Suratul Falaq

Reference: Qur’an 113

Suratun Nas

Reference: Qur’an 114

The complete selected Suwar list in the syllabus is therefore:

1. Al-Fatihah — Q.1
2. Ad-Duha — Q.93
3. At-Tin — Q.95
4. Al-‘Alaq — Q.96:1–5
5. Al-Qadr — Q.97
6. Al-Kafirun — Q.109
7. An-Nasr — Q.110
8. Al-Ikhlas — Q.112
9. Al-Falaq — Q.113
10. An-Nas — Q.114

How to Study the Selected Suwar

For every selected Surah, organise your notes under:

Arabic Text or Transliteration → Meaning → Main Theme → Lessons → Application

Do not memorise the Arabic or transliteration without understanding the meaning.

Moral Lessons From the Qur’an

The syllabus highlights three areas:

• Attitudes to Parents
• Honesty in Words and Deeds
• Prohibition of Gambling

Attitude to Parents

The syllabus gives:

• Qur’an 17:23–24
• Qur’an 31:13–15

Study the teachings contained in these passages and their application to family life.

Honesty in Words and Deeds

Relevant passages listed include:

• Qur’an 2:42
• Qur’an 61:2–3
• Qur’an 17:35

Understand the importance of truthfulness and consistency between words and actions.

Prohibition of Gambling

The syllabus gives:

• Qur’an 2:219
• Qur’an 5:90–91

Study the Islamic teaching on gambling and the lessons contained in the passages.

Part 3 Hadith

The Hadith section covers:

• Definition of Hadith
• Sunnah
• Differences and Similarities
• Importance
• Parts of Hadith
• Authenticity
• Classification
• Six Sound Collections
• Selected Ahadith From an-Nawawi

Meaning of Hadith

Know the definition of Hadith and understand its importance in Islamic Studies.

Meaning of Sunnah

Study the meaning of Sunnah and its relationship with Hadith.

Differences Between Hadith and Sunnah

You should be able to explain both:

• Differences
• Similarities

between Hadith and Sunnah.

Importance of Hadith and Sunnah

Understand their importance in Islamic teachings and practice.

Parts of Hadith

The syllabus specifically lists:

• Isnad
• Matn
• Rawi

Isnad

Study the meaning and importance of the chain of transmission.

Matn

Understand the meaning of the text or content of a Hadith.

Rawi

Study the meaning and role of a narrator.

Authenticity of Hadith

The syllabus requires knowledge of the criteria used in determining the authenticity of Hadith.

Classification of Hadith

Study:

• Sahih
• Hasan
• Da‘if

Know what distinguishes these classifications.

Sihahus-Sittah

The syllabus requires knowledge of the Six Sound Collections of Hadith and their compilers.

Make sure you learn:

• Names of the collections
• Their compilers

as taught in your course.

Selected Hadith From an-Nawawi

The syllabus requires selected Ahadith from an-Nawawi’s collection.

The Hadith numbers are:

• Hadith 1
• Hadith 5
• Hadith 7
• Hadith 9
• Hadith 13
• Hadith 15
• Hadith 16
• Hadith 18
• Hadith 34
• Hadith 41

For each selected Hadith, prepare:

• Arabic Text or Transliteration
• Memorization
• Meaning
• Identification
• Explanation
• Interpretation
• Application
• Lessons

How to Study WAEC Hadith

Do not memorise the selected Ahadith without understanding them.

Use:

Hadith Number → Text or Transliteration → Meaning → Main Teaching → Lessons → Application

This makes essay preparation much easier.

Part 4 Tawhid and Fiqh

Tawhid and Fiqh covers Islamic Theology and Jurisprudence.

The major topics are:

• Iman
• Shirk
• Taharah
• Salat
• Sawm
• Zakat
• Hajj
• Shari‘ah
• Nikah
• Talaq

Iman Faith

Study:

• Meaning of Iman
• Significance of Iman
• Articles of Faith

Articles of Faith

The syllabus requires belief in:

• Allah
• His Angels
• His Books
• His Prophets
• Day of Resurrection and Judgement
• Destiny — Qada’ and Qadar

Belief in Allah

Study the meaning and importance of belief in Allah, including the emphasis placed on Kalimatush-Shahadah in the syllabus.

Belief in Angels

Know the Islamic teaching concerning angels within the scope of the syllabus.

Belief in Revealed Books

Study belief in the books revealed by Allah.

Belief in Prophets

The syllabus gives particular attention to the Ulul-‘Azm prophets:

• Ibrahim
• Nuh
• Musa
• ‘Isa
• Muhammad (S.A.W.)

Study their importance and relevant lessons.

Day of Resurrection Judgement and Eternal Life

Understand Islamic teachings relating to:

• Resurrection
• Judgement
• Eternal Life

Qada and Qadar

Study:

• Meaning of Qada’
• Meaning of Qadar
• Difference Between the Two Concepts

The syllabus specifically requires candidates to distinguish between them.

Shirk

Shirk means associating partners with Allah.

The syllabus includes:

• Worship of Idols
• Ancestor Worship
• Hero Worship

Understand why these are treated under Shirk.

Taharah Purification

The syllabus includes:

• Importance of Taharah
• al-Istinja’
• al-Wudu’
• at-Tayammum
• al-Ghusl

Importance of Taharah

Understand why purification is important in Islamic worship and daily religious practice.

Al-Istinja

Study its meaning and practice.

Al-Wudu

Prepare:

• Meaning
• Procedure
• Importance

and the relevant rules taught in your course.

At-Tayammum

Understand:

• Meaning
• Circumstances in Which It Is Used
• Procedure

Al-Ghusl

Study the meaning, purpose and procedure of Ghusl within your Islamic Studies course.

Salat

The syllabus gives considerable attention to Salat.

Study:

• Meaning
• Importance
• Acts That Vitiate Salat
• Congregational Salat
• Sujudus-Sahwi
• Obligatory Salat
• Non-Obligatory Salat
• Special Prayers
• Salat During a Journey

Meaning and Importance of Salat

You should be able to define Salat and explain its spiritual and practical importance.

Acts That Vitiate Salat

Study the acts that make Salat invalid within the rules taught in your course.

Congregational Salat

Understand how a Muslim joins a congregational prayer.

Sujudus-Sahwi

Study Sujudus-Sahwi, which the syllabus describes as the Prostration of Forgetfulness.

Obligatory Salat

The five obligatory prayers listed are:

• Subh/Fajr
• Zuhr
• ‘Asr
• Maghrib
• ‘Isha’i

Non-Obligatory Salat

The syllabus includes Nawafil accompanying the obligatory prayers as well as examples such as:

• Duha
• Witr

Special Prayers

Study the observation of:

• Jum‘ah
• ‘Idayn
• Janazah
• Istisqa’
• Tarawih
• Kusufayn
• Istikhara

Salatus-Safar

Study the rules and practice of Salat while on a journey.

Sawm Fasting

The syllabus requires a detailed study of Sawm with emphasis on its:

• Spiritual Objectives
• Social Objectives
• Moral Objectives

Important areas include:

• Definition
• Types
• Compulsory Fast
• Voluntary Fast
• Ramadan
• Exemptions
• Things That Vitiate Fast
• Benefits

Types of Sawm

Study:

• Compulsory Fasting
• Voluntary Fasting

Compulsory Fast

Examples given include:

• Ramadan
• Kaffarah
• Nadr

Voluntary Fast

Examples include:

• Sitta Shawwal
• ‘Ashura’
• Tasu‘a
• Mondays
• Thursdays

Ramadan Fast

Study how Ramadan fasting is observed.

People Exempted From Fasting

Know the categories of people exempted from fasting as taught in your course.

Things That Vitiate Fasting

Study actions that invalidate the fast.

Benefits of Sawm

Prepare the:

• Spiritual Benefits
• Social Benefits
• Moral Benefits

Zakat Charity

The syllabus requires detailed knowledge of Zakat with emphasis on:

• Spiritual Objectives
• Socio-Economic Objectives
• Moral Objectives

Zakat and Sadaqah

Study:

• Definition of Zakat
• Definition of Sadaqah
• Difference Between Zakat and Sadaqah

Articles on Which Zakat Is Paid

Know the categories of property or wealth on which Zakat is payable as covered in the syllabus.

Nisab

Study the meaning and importance of Nisab in determining liability for Zakat.

Zakat on Livestock

Understand the requirements taught for livestock.

Zakat on Money

Study how Zakat applies to money.

Zakat on Agricultural Products

Prepare the rules relating to agricultural produce.

Beneficiaries of Zakat

The syllabus specifically refers to the beneficiaries contained in Qur’an 9:60.

Zakatul-Fitr

Study its meaning, purpose and application.

Benefits of Zakat

Understand its:

• Spiritual Benefits
• Socio-Economic Benefits
• Moral Benefits

Hajj and Umrah

The syllabus requires detailed study of both Hajj and ‘Umrah.

Areas include:

• Definition
• Origin
• Prerequisites
• Performance
• Validity
• Types of Hajj
• Rites
• Significance

Definition and Origin of Hajj and Umrah

Understand what both forms of pilgrimage mean.

Prerequisites for Hajj

Study the conditions that must be satisfied before a person is required or able to perform Hajj.

Performance of Umrah and Hajj

Know the major stages involved in performing them.

Acts Affecting the Validity of Hajj

Study the acts that can affect the validity of Hajj.

Types of Hajj

The syllabus lists:

• Ifrad
• Tamattu‘
• Qiran

You should know the differences among them.

Rites of Hajj

Learn the major rites in the correct sequence.

Significance of Hajj

Prepare:

• Spiritual Significance
• Socio-Economic Significance
• Moral Significance

Shari‘ah

Study:

• Definition
• Sources
• Significance

The sources listed in the syllabus are:

• Qur’an
• Sunnah
• Ijma‘
• Qiyas

Qur’an as a Source of Shariah

Understand its position as a primary source of Islamic law.

Sunnah as a Source of Shariah

Study how Sunnah contributes to Islamic jurisprudence.

Ijma

Understand the meaning of Ijma‘ and its role as a source.

Qiyas

Study the meaning and use of Qiyas.

Nikah Marriage

The syllabus covers:

• Concept of Nikah
• Prohibited Categories
• Conditions Governing Validity
• Rights of Husband and Wife
• Duties of Husband and Wife
• Prohibition of Ill-Treatment of the Wife

Concept of Nikah

Understand the Islamic meaning and purpose of marriage.

Prohibited Categories

Study the categories of people with whom marriage is prohibited according to the material covered in the syllabus.

Conditions Governing Validity

Know the conditions necessary for a valid Nikah.

Rights and Duties of Husband and Wife

You should be able to explain:

• Rights of the Husband
• Rights of the Wife
• Duties of the Husband
• Duties of the Wife

according to the Islamic teachings covered in the syllabus.

Ill-Treatment of a Wife

The syllabus specifically includes the Islamic law prohibiting ill-treatment of a wife.

Talaq Divorce

The final detailed syllabus topic is Talaq.

Study:

• Islam’s Attitude to Divorce
• Types of Divorce
• ‘Iddatut-Talaq

Islam’s Attitude to Divorce

Understand the position of Islam regarding divorce and the importance placed on resolving marital problems appropriately.

Types of Divorce

The syllabus includes:

• Talaq
• Khul‘
• Faskh
• Mubara‘ah
• Zihar
• Li‘an

Know their meanings and differences within the level required by the syllabus.

Iddatut-Talaq

Study:

• Meaning
• Duration
• Implication

of the waiting period for a divorced woman.

Important Qur’an Portions to Memorise

Make sure you are familiar with the selected portions specifically listed in the syllabus:

• Al-Fatihah
• Ad-Duha
• At-Tin
• Al-‘Alaq 1–5
• Al-Qadr
• Al-Kafirun
• An-Nasr
• Al-Ikhlas
• Al-Falaq
• An-Nas

For each one, prepare:

Reading/Transliteration → Memorization → Meaning → Lessons → Application

Important Hadith to Prepare

The selected Hadith from an-Nawawi are:

• 1
• 5
• 7
• 9
• 13
• 15
• 16
• 18
• 34
• 41

For each one, know its meaning and lessons rather than memorising the text without understanding.

Best Order to Study WAEC Islamic Studies

A useful revision order is to follow the structure of the syllabus.

Stage 1 Tarikh

Study:

1. Jahiliyyah
2. Life of Prophet Muhammad
3. Hijrah
4. Madinan Constitution
5. Battles
6. Treaty of Hudaybiyyah
7. Conquest of Makkah
8. Farewell Pilgrimage
9. Khulafā’ur-Rāshidīn
10. Islam in West Africa

Stage 2 Qur’an

Study:

1. Revelation
2. Preservation
3. Makki and Madani Suwar
4. Importance of the Qur’an
5. Selected Suwar
6. Attitude to Parents
7. Honesty
8. Prohibition of Gambling

Stage 3 Hadith

Study:

1. Hadith
2. Sunnah
3. Isnad
4. Matn
5. Rawi
6. Authenticity
7. Sahih
8. Hasan
9. Da‘if
10. Sihahus-Sittah
11. Selected an-Nawawi Hadith

Stage 4 Tawhid

Study:

1. Iman
2. Articles of Faith
3. Belief in Allah
4. Angels
5. Books
6. Prophets
7. Resurrection and Judgement
8. Qada and Qadar
9. Shirk

Stage 5 Fiqh and Worship

Study:

1. Taharah
2. Salat
3. Sawm
4. Zakat
5. Hajj and ‘Umrah

Stage 6 Islamic Law and Family Life

Finish with:

1. Shari‘ah
2. Sources of Shari‘ah
3. Nikah
4. Rights and Duties in Marriage
5. Talaq
6. ‘Iddatut-Talaq

Continue revising the selected Qur’an portions and Ahadith throughout all the stages.

How to Use the WAEC Islamic Studies Syllabus to Prepare

Start With the Complete Syllabus

Use the complete PDF as your main checklist.

READ ALSO: WAEC Hausa Syllabus 2027/2028 Questions PDF Download

Study Historical Topics With a Fixed Structure

For an important historical event, use:

Background → Causes → Events → Outcome → Significance → Lessons

This works particularly well for:

• Hijrah
• Battles
• Treaty of Hudaybiyyah
• Conquest of Makkah

Study the Caliphs Separately

For each Rightly Guided Caliph, use:

Biography → Leadership → Contributions → Challenges → Lessons

Memorise Qur’an Portions With Their Meanings

Do not separate memorization from understanding.

Study:

Text/Transliteration → Meaning → Explanation → Lesson → Application

Do the Same for Hadith

For the selected Hadith, use:

Hadith Number → Text/Transliteration → Meaning → Teaching → Lesson → Application

Compare Similar Islamic Concepts

Practise distinctions such as:

• Hadith and Sunnah
• Sahih, Hasan and Da‘if
• Zakat and Sadaqah
• Qada and Qadar
• Obligatory and Voluntary Sawm
• Hajj and ‘Umrah
• Ifrad, Tamattu‘ and Qiran
• Talaq, Khul‘ and Other Forms of Separation

Practise Essay Questions

Paper 2 requires four substantial answers within two hours.

Practise questions asking you to:

• Describe
• Explain
• Discuss
• State Lessons
• Compare
• Distinguish
• Give Significance
• Apply Islamic Teachings

What Should You Focus on Most for WAEC Islamic Studies

You should cover the complete syllabus, but make sure you are particularly confident in:

• Jahiliyyah
• Life of Prophet Muhammad
• Hijrah
• Madinan Constitution
• Battles of Badr, Uhud and Khandaq
• Treaty of Hudaybiyyah
• Conquest of Makkah
• Farewell Pilgrimage
• Rightly Guided Caliphs
• Spread of Islam in West Africa
• Revelation and Preservation of the Qur’an
• Selected Suwar
• Qur’anic Moral Teachings
• Hadith and Sunnah
• Parts and Classification of Hadith
• Selected an-Nawawi Hadith
• Iman
• Articles of Faith
• Shirk
• Taharah
• Salat
• Sawm
• Zakat
• Hajj
• Sources of Shari‘ah
• Nikah
• Talaq

For a focused revision guide, use the WAEC Islamic Studies Areas of Concentration 2027/2028.

Suggested Islamic Studies Books

The syllabus provides a reading list containing materials covering:

• Qur’an and Tafsir
• Hadith
• Fiqh
• Life of Prophet Muhammad
• History of Islam
• Islam in West Africa
• General Islamic Studies

The list includes works such as:

• The Holy Qur’an — translation and commentary by A. Yusuf Ali
• The Meaning of the Glorious Koran — Mohammed Marmaduke Pickthall
• Islam in Focus — Hammudah Abdalati
• The Classical Caliphate — M.O.A. Abdul
• West Africa and Islam — P.B. Clarke
• A History of Islam in West Africa — J.S. Trimingham
• Islamic Studies for Secondary Schools
• Essentials of Islamic Studies
• 40 Hadith: An Explanation — Dr. Yushau Sodiq

The full reading list is available in the syllabus PDF.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the WAEC Islamic Studies Syllabus 2027/2028?

It is the guide containing the Tarikh, Qur’an, Hadith, Tawhid and Fiqh topics you need to study for the WASSCE Islamic Studies examination.

Where Can I Download the WAEC Islamic Studies Syllabus PDF?

Use the download button near the beginning of this article to save the complete PDF.

What Are the Main Parts of the Islamic Studies Syllabus?

There are four major parts:

• Tarikh
• Qur’an
• Hadith
• Tawhid and Fiqh

How Many Papers Are in WAEC Islamic Studies?

There are two papers:

• Paper 1
• Paper 2

Both form a composite examination.

How Many Questions Are in Islamic Studies Paper 1?

Paper 1 contains 50 multiple-choice questions.

How Long Is Islamic Studies Paper 1?

Paper 1 lasts 50 minutes and carries 50 marks.

How Many Questions Are in Islamic Studies Paper 2?

Six essay questions are provided.

One is compulsory, and you answer the compulsory question plus three optional questions.

How Long Is Islamic Studies Paper 2?

Paper 2 lasts 2 hours and carries 100 marks.

Is the Life of Prophet Muhammad Included?

Yes.

The syllabus covers his birth, marriage, call to prophethood, Hijrah, leadership, battles, Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, Conquest of Makkah, Farewell Pilgrimage and death.

Are the Battles of Badr Uhud and Khandaq Included?

Yes.

For each battle, study its causes, course and effects.

Are the Rightly Guided Caliphs Included?

Yes.

Study:

• Abu Bakr
• Umar
• Uthman
• Ali

Is Islam in West Africa Included?

Yes.

You should study its spread and its impact on ancient West African societies.

Is the Revelation of the Qur’an Included?

Yes.

Study Cave Hira, the first revelation, modes of revelation and piecemeal revelation.

Is the Preservation of the Qur’an Included?

Yes.

Study recording, compilation, standardization, Makki and Madani Suwar and the role of the Companions.

What Surahs Should I Study for WAEC Islamic Studies?

The syllabus includes:

• Al-Fatihah
• Ad-Duha
• At-Tin
• Al-‘Alaq 1–5
• Al-Qadr
• Al-Kafirun
• An-Nasr
• Al-Ikhlas
• Al-Falaq
• An-Nas

Do I Need to Memorise the Selected Surahs?

The syllabus requires reading in Arabic or transliteration, memorization, meaning and lessons.

Is Hadith Included?

Yes.

Study Hadith and Sunnah, their importance, Isnad, Matn, Rawi, authenticity and classification.

What Types of Hadith Should I Know?

Study:

• Sahih
• Hasan
• Da‘if

Which an-Nawawi Hadith Should I Study?

Prepare Hadith:

• 1
• 5
• 7
• 9
• 13
• 15
• 16
• 18
• 34
• 41

Are the Articles of Faith Included?

Yes.

The syllabus covers belief in Allah, angels, books, prophets, resurrection and judgement, and destiny.

Is Taharah Included?

Yes.

Study:

• Istinja
• Wudu
• Tayammum
• Ghusl

Is Salat Included?

Yes.

The syllabus covers obligatory, non-obligatory and special prayers.

What Special Prayers Should I Study?

Examples include:

• Jum‘ah
• ‘Idayn
• Janazah
• Istisqa’
• Tarawih
• Kusufayn
• Istikhara

Is Fasting Included?

Yes.

Study compulsory and voluntary fasting, Ramadan, exemptions, things that invalidate fasting and its benefits.

Is Zakat Included?

Yes.

Study Zakat and Sadaqah, Nisab, livestock, money, agricultural products, beneficiaries and Zakatul-Fitr.

Is Hajj Included?

Yes.

Study Hajj and ‘Umrah, prerequisites, rites, validity, types and significance.

What Types of Hajj Should I Study?

The syllabus includes:

• Ifrad
• Tamattu‘
• Qiran

What Are the Sources of Shariah in the Syllabus?

The sources listed are:

• Qur’an
• Sunnah
• Ijma‘
• Qiyas

Is Islamic Marriage Included?

Yes.

Nikah covers its concept, prohibited categories, validity, rights and duties of spouses and treatment within marriage.

Is Divorce Included?

Yes.

Study:

• Talaq
• Khul‘
• Faskh
• Mubara‘ah
• Zihar
• Li‘an
• ‘Iddatut-Talaq

Can Islamic Studies Be Taken With Christian Religious Studies?

The syllabus states that Islamic Studies may not be taken with Christian Religious Studies and West African Traditional Religion.

Where Can I Find the WAEC Islamic Studies Areas of Concentration?

Use the WAEC Islamic Studies Areas of Concentration 2027/2028 guide to organise your revision.

Where Can I Find the Syllabus for Other WAEC Subjects?

Use the WAEC Syllabus 2027/2028 PDF Download for All Subjects page.

Conclusion

The WAEC Islamic Studies Syllabus 2027/2028 is divided into four major parts: Tarikh, Qur’an, Hadith, and Tawhid and Fiqh.

For Tarikh, study Arabia before Islam, the life of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.), the Hijrah, Madinan Constitution, major battles, Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, Conquest of Makkah, Farewell Pilgrimage, Rightly Guided Caliphs and Islam in West Africa.

For the Qur’an, prepare its revelation, preservation, importance, selected Suwar and the moral teachings concerning parents, honesty and gambling.

For Hadith, understand Hadith and Sunnah, Isnad, Matn, Rawi, authenticity, classifications and the selected traditions from an-Nawawi.

For Tawhid and Fiqh, study Iman, the Articles of Faith, Shirk, Taharah, Salat, Sawm, Zakat, Hajj, Shari‘ah, Nikah and Talaq.

Do not depend on memorization alone. The syllabus repeatedly requires understanding, explanation, interpretation, lessons and practical application. Make sure you can explain how Islamic teachings relate to everyday life.

Use the complete syllabus as your main checklist and combine it with regular Qur’an and Hadith revision, appropriate Islamic Studies textbooks and WAEC past questions.

READ ALSO: WAEC Islamic Studies Areas of Concentration 2027/2028

READ ALSO: WAEC Syllabus 2027/2028 PDF Download for All Subjects

READ ALSO: WAEC Areas of Concentration 2027/2028 for All Subjects

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