Waec & Gce

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Waec (Gce) News And Updates 2025/2026: Latest Announcements, Registrations, Results, And Exam Dates

Hello, future scholars! If you're planning to take the West African Examinations Council's General Certificate Examination (WAEC GCE) for the 2025/2026 session, you've come to the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from registration details to exam dates and result-checking procedures. Let's get started!

Understanding WAEC GCE

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) conducts the General Certificate Examination (GCE) for private candidates who wish to obtain the Senior School Certificate. This exam offers flexibility for individuals who may not be in the traditional school system but still seek certification for higher education or employment opportunities.

Registration Process

Eligibility Criteria

To register for the WAEC GCE, candidates should:

• Age Requirement: While there's no strict upper age limit, candidates are typically expected to be at least 16 years old.

• Educational Background: Candidates should have completed secondary school or its equivalent. The GCE is ideal for those who missed the regular WAEC exams or wish to improve their previous scores.

Registration Steps

1. Obtain Registration PIN:

• Payment: Candidates must pay a registration fee of ₦27,000, plus a ₦500 bank commission. Payments can be made at designated banks or accredited agents. Upon payment, you'll receive a Registration Personal Identification Number (PIN). 

2. Online Registration:

• Access the Portal: Visit the official WAEC registration portal.

• Create Profile: Use your Registration PIN to create a profile.

• Biometric Data Capture: Enroll your fingerprints and capture personal details using the Biometric Data Capture software. This step is crucial, as improper biometric registration can lead to disqualification. 

• Fill in Personal Information: Provide accurate details, including your full name, date of birth, nationality, and contact information.

• Upload Passport Photograph: Ensure you upload a high-quality passport-sized photograph with a plain background. The recommended size is 275 by 314 pixels. 

• Select Examination Town: Choose your preferred state and town for the examination. Note that once selected, this cannot be changed after submission.

• Choose Subjects: Select between seven and nine subjects you wish to sit for. Ensure these align with your academic or career aspirations.

• Declaration: Confirm that all information provided is accurate and agree to abide by the examination rules and regulations.

3. Submission and Printing:

• Review Entries: Double-check all entered information for accuracy.

• Submit Registration: After confirmation, submit your registration.

• Print Photocard: This document contains essential details like your examination number and center. It's mandatory to bring this to the examination hall.

Important Dates

• Registration Period: The registration for the 2025 WAEC GCE is expected to commence on July 8, 2025, and conclude on October 11, 2025. It's advisable to register early to avoid any last-minute issues. 

• Biometric Data Submission Deadline: Ensure all biometric data is submitted by October 13, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Late submissions may not be entertained. 

Fees and Payment Methods

• Registration Fee: The standard registration fee is ₦27,000, with an additional ₦500 bank commission. 

• Payment Methods: Payments can be made at various participating banks, including Access Bank, GTBank, Ecobank, UBA, and others. Ensure you obtain a receipt and your Registration PIN after payment.

Examination Details

Exam Dates

The WAEC GCE for the 2025/2026 session is tentatively scheduled as follows:

• First Series: January/February 2025

• Second Series: August/September 2025

Candidates should regularly check the official WAEC website or liaise with accredited registration centers for the exact dates and any updates.

Subject Offerings

WAEC GCE offers a wide range of subjects across various disciplines. Candidates can choose between seven and nine subjects, including:

• Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics

• Arts: Literature in English, History, Christian Religious Studies

• Commercial: Economics, Commerce, Financial Accounting

• Languages: English Language, French, Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba

• Technical and Vocational: Technical Drawing, Foods and Nutrition, Visual Art

It's essential to select subjects that align with your future academic or career goals.

Examination Centers

• Selection: During registration, candidates select their preferred examination town. WAEC assigns specific centers within these towns based on logistical considerations.

• Confirmation: Details of the exact examination center will be provided on the photocard. It's crucial to visit the center before the exam day to familiarize yourself with the location.

Results and Post-Exam Procedures

How to Check Results

1. Visit the WAEC Result Portal: Navigate to the official WAEC result-checking website.

2. Enter Examination Details:

• Examination Number: Input your unique 10-digit examination number.

• Examination Year: Select the year of the examination (e.g., 2025).

• Examination Type: Choose "Private Candidate Result" for GCE.

3. Enter PIN and Serial Number: Use the PIN and serial number from your WAEC GCE photocard.

4. Submit: Click on the "Submit" button to view your results.

Grading System

WAEC employs the following grading system:

• A1: Excellent (75-100%)

• B2: Very Good (70-74%)

• B3: Good (65-69%)

• C4: Credit (60-64%)

• C5: Credit (55-59%)

• C6: Credit (50-54%)

• D7: Pass (45-49%)

• E8: Pass (40-44%)

• F9: Fail (0-39%)

Credits (A1 to C6) are generally required for admission into tertiary institutions.

Certificate Collection Process

Once the results are released, successful candidates can collect their certificates from designated WAEC offices. Here’s what you need to know about the collection process:

Where to Collect Your Certificate

• WAEC Zonal Offices: Candidates can pick up their certificates from the WAEC office in the state where they registered.

• WAEC Headquarters: If you registered in a major city like Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt, you might need to visit the WAEC headquarters or a designated collection center.

• Authorized Agents: Some private schools and exam registration centers may facilitate certificate collection on behalf of candidates, but ensure they are accredited by WAEC.

Requirements for Collecting Your Certificate

To collect your WAEC GCE certificate, you’ll need:

1. A valid identification document (such as a National ID card, International Passport, or Voter’s Card).

2. Your WAEC Examination Number (this can be found on your photocard).

3. Proof of WAEC GCE registration/payment receipt.

4. A collection fee (WAEC may charge a small fee for certificate collection, which varies depending on when you collect it).

Late Collection Fees

WAEC encourages candidates to collect their certificates within four years after the exam. If you delay beyond this period, you may have to pay a penalty fee, which increases over time.

• 0–4 years after the exam – Free collection

• 5–9 years after the exam – Moderate penalty fee

• 10 years and above – Higher penalty fee

To avoid paying extra charges, ensure you collect your certificate as soon as it becomes available.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I register for WAEC GCE if I didn’t take the school exam (WAEC SSCE)?

Yes! WAEC GCE is designed for private candidates, including those who didn’t take the school exam or want to improve their previous results.

2. What is the difference between WAEC SSCE and WAEC GCE?

• WAEC SSCE is taken by students in secondary school (internal candidates).

• WAEC GCE is for private candidates who are not in school (external candidates).

3. How many subjects can I register for in WAEC GCE?

You can register for a minimum of 7 and a maximum of 9 subjects.

4. What happens if I fail WAEC GCE?

If you fail, you can register for another WAEC GCE in the next available session or explore alternatives like NABTEB or NECO.

5. Can I change my exam center after registration?

No. Once registration is complete, you cannot change your exam center.

6. How long does it take for WAEC GCE results to be released?

WAEC usually releases GCE results within 45–60 days after the exam.

7. Can I combine WAEC GCE results with WAEC SSCE results for university admission?

Yes! Most universities accept a combination of WAEC SSCE and WAEC GCE results, but always check with the school you’re applying to.

8. Can I register for WAEC GCE online?

Yes, the entire registration process is done online via the official WAEC portal.

9. Is there a refund if I decide not to sit for the exam?

No. WAEC does not offer refunds once payment has been made.

10. Can I write WAEC GCE without biometric registration?

No. Biometric verification is compulsory for all candidates.

Final Thoughts

WAEC GCE is a fantastic opportunity for individuals who wish to gain their Senior School Certificate without attending a formal school setting. Whether you're improving your grades or taking the exam for the first time, early preparation is key to success.

Make sure you register early, choose your subjects wisely, and study hard. With the right preparation, you can ace your exams and open doors to further education and career opportunities.

If you have any more questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out via WAEC’s official website or visit a WAEC office near you.

Good luck with your WAEC GCE 2025/2026 exams!