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Waec News 2025: Latest Updates And Announcements

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) remains one of the most significant examination bodies in West Africa, conducting assessments for millions of students annually. As 2025 unfolds, candidates, parents, and educators must stay informed about the latest updates and announcements concerning WAEC.

This comprehensive guide provides a detailed breakdown of the 2025 WAEC examinations, including changes in registration processes, examination formats, new security measures, and much more. Whether you're a school candidate, a private candidate, or an education stakeholder, this article covers everything you need to know.

Overview of WAEC

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) was established in 1952 and is responsible for conducting standardized exams in English-speaking West African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, and Liberia. WAEC examinations determine students' eligibility for tertiary education and serve as a benchmark for academic competence.

WAEC administers multiple exams, including:

• West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for School Candidates

• WASSCE for Private Candidates (First and Second Series)

• National Examinations for Technical and Vocational Education

WAEC certificates are widely recognized by universities, colleges, and employers across Africa and internationally.

2025 WAEC Examination Timetable

School Candidates (May/June WASSCE 2025)

• Registration Period: January – March 2025

• Examination Dates: May 3 – June 15, 2025

• Subjects: Core subjects (Mathematics, English, and Sciences) and elective subjects based on student specialization

Private Candidates (First Series – January/February 2025)

• Registration: December 2024 – January 2025

• Examination Period: January 29 – February 12, 2025

• Mode: Combination of traditional exams and pilot Computer-Based Testing (CBT)

Private Candidates (Second Series – August/September 2025)

• Registration: June – July 2025

• Examination Dates: August 17 – September 30, 2025

• Mode: Traditional examination with a mix of CBT for objective tests

WAEC Registration Process for 2025

School Candidates:

• Schools must register students through the WAEC online portal

• Biometric data capture is mandatory for identification

• Exam fees are paid collectively by schools, varying based on subject selections

Private Candidates:

• Candidates must register via WAEC's online platform

• Biometric data collection required

• Candidates choose their preferred examination center

• The registration fee for private candidates in 2025 is ₦27,000 plus a ₦500 commission for payment processing

New Computer-Based Testing (CBT) System

To modernize exams and reduce malpractices, WAEC has started transitioning to Computer-Based Testing (CBT), with full implementation planned by 2027.

Key Changes:

• CBT for Objective Tests: Multiple-choice exams will be conducted digitally.

• Hybrid Format: Essay and practical components will remain paper-based for now.

• Pilot Testing: The 2025 WASSCE for Private Candidates (First Series) will be the first to include CBT elements.

Benefits of CBT:

✔ Faster results processing
✔ Enhanced security against malpractice
✔ Standardized examination conditions

Security Enhancements in 2025

WAEC has intensified its fight against examination malpractice with new measures:

✅ Biometric Verification: Ensures only registered candidates sit for exams
✅ Encrypted Question Papers: Digital encryption prevents early leaks
✅ Real-Time Surveillance: AI-powered monitoring systems installed at major exam centers
✅ Strict Exam Hall Policies: Candidates caught cheating face five-year bans from WAEC exams

These steps aim to maintain the integrity of WAEC certificates and deter dishonest practices.

WAEC Age Limit Controversy

In 2024, the Nigerian government proposed setting 18 years as the minimum age for sitting WAEC exams. The move sparked debates:

• Supporters argued it would ensure candidates are mature enough for the exams.

• Critics claimed it would disadvantage academically gifted younger students.

Final Decision:

The age limit policy was ultimately suspended, allowing students under 18 to continue sitting for WAEC exams without restrictions.

WAEC Result Release and Certificate Collection

Results Timeline:

• School Candidates: Released 45 days after the last paper

• Private Candidates: Available within 60 days post-exam

How to Check WAEC Results:

1️⃣ Online via WAEC Portal (www.waecdirect.org) using your exam number and scratch card PIN
2️⃣ Via SMS by sending your exam details to a designated shortcode

Certificate Collection:

• School Candidates: Certificates are sent to schools

• Private Candidates: Collect from WAEC offices

WAEC certificates now feature photographs and QR codes to prevent forgery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I write WAEC if I’m under 18 years old?

Yes. The proposed age limit was not enforced, so younger candidates can sit for WAEC in 2025.

2. When does WAEC 2025 registration close?

• School candidates: March 2025

• Private candidates (First Series): January 22, 2025

• Private candidates (Second Series): July 31, 2025

3. Is WAEC transitioning fully to CBT?

Yes, by 2027, all WAEC exams will be 100% Computer-Based Testing (CBT).

4. How can I get my WAEC certificate?

School candidates collect theirs from their school, while private candidates must visit a WAEC office.

5. What happens if I miss my WAEC exam?

Missing an exam means automatic failure in that subject. You must register again in a future series.

6. Can I use WAEC results from different years to apply for university?

Yes, universities allow combination of results from multiple WAEC sittings.

Conclusion

WAEC 2025 introduces significant changes, including CBT implementation, enhanced security measures, and flexible exam registration. Candidates must stay informed to ensure a smooth examination experience. With continued technological improvements, WAEC aims to maintain credibility, efficiency, and fairness in its examination process.

Stay updated with official WAEC announcements to avoid misinformation. Best of luck to all 2025 WAEC candidates!