The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) will conduct the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), a key school-leaving qualification for secondary-school students in West Africa, including Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, and Liberia. This exam determines eligibility for tertiary education and employment opportunities in the region.
Key points about WAEC 2026:
Exam date: The main WAEC 2026 examinations are expected to run from May through June 2026, with specific timetables typically released early in the year.
Computer-Based Testing (CBT): There is a major transition planned toward full computer-based testing (CBT) for both objective and essay components by the 2026 exam cycle as part of efforts to reduce malpractice and modernise assessment, though rollout arrangements include pilot phases and infrastructure requirements for schools.
Preparations and requirements: Schools may need adequate ICT facilities—like computers, servers, and power backups—to host CBT exams, and WAEC has urged readiness among stakeholders.
Clarifications: WAEC has denied rumours about restricting candidates’ subject choices for the 2026 exams, emphasising that such decisions are not within its remit.
The WAEC 2026 exams remain a crucial milestone for students completing senior secondary education and seeking higher education or career opportunities in West Africa.
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