WAEC GCE 2026 Timetable: The Complete Guide for Private Candidates
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has officially released the schedule for the 2026 First Series (January/February) examination.
About the 2026 First Series (Jan/Feb)
The West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for Private Candidates, commonly known as WAEC GCE, consists of two series. The First Series is conducted in January and February, designed specifically for students wishing to correct deficiencies in their previous results before the general school exams later in the year.
This timetable applies to all five member countries: Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, and Liberia. Whether you are in Lagos, Accra, Freetown, Banjul, or Monrovia, this unified international schedule dictates the flow of the examination.
Interactive Timetable
Auto-detects your current dateImportant Notice on Time Zones
The times listed typically reflect GMT+1 (Nigeria Time). Candidates in Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and The Gambia must adjust for their local time (GMT). Always verify the start time at your specific examination center.
Key Subjects & Preparation Strategy
Success in the WAEC GCE requires strategic planning. The 2026 First Series is compressed, with major papers often following closely.
- General Mathematics (Core): Scheduled for Saturday, January 31st. This is a compulsory subject for all candidates. Ensure you practice past questions on Geometry and Algebra.
- English Language: The oral and essay papers are split. Orals are critical for your overall grade—do not arrive late for the specific batch timing.
- Science Practicals: For Private Candidates, these are "Alternatives to Practical Work," meaning you will answer questions based on experiments rather than performing them in a lab.
Examination Rules & Regulations
WAEC maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards examination malpractice. To ensure your results are released:
1. Arrive Early: Candidates should be seated 30 minutes before the paper starts.
2. No Phones: Mobile devices, smartwatches, and unauthorized materials are strictly prohibited in the exam hall.
3. Biometrics: Ensure your fingerprint verification is done before the exam begins.
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