What You Need to Know Before You Register for WAEC in Nigeria

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) is one of the most important exams for secondary school students in Nigeria. Every year, thousands of candidates register for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), either as school candidates or private candidates (GCE).

If you’re preparing to register for WAEC in Nigeria, there are important things you must know about eligibility, subjects, requirements, fees, deadlines, and preparation. This guide will walk you through everything step by step.

1. Types of WAEC in Nigeria

Before registering, understand the two types of WAEC exams available in Nigeria:

✅ WAEC for School Candidates (May/June)

• For students currently enrolled in senior secondary school (SS3).

• Registration is done through your school.

• Schools handle most of the process, but you’ll need to provide your details, photo, and fees.

✅ WAEC for Private Candidates (GCE)

• Also called WAEC GCE, it is for those who are not in school or wish to re-take the exam.

• It is held twice yearly:

  • First Series (Jan/Feb)

  • Second Series (Aug/Sept)

• Registration is done individually online via the WAEC Nigeria portal.

2. Eligibility for WAEC in Nigeria

• School Candidates: You must be in SS3 (final year of secondary school).

• Private Candidates: Anyone who has completed secondary school can register.

3. WAEC Subjects to Register

When registering, you must choose the right number of subjects:

• School candidates: Minimum of 8 subjects, maximum of 9 subjects.

• Private candidates: Can register for a minimum of 7 subjects.

Compulsory Subjects

• English Language

• Mathematics

• At least one science subject (Biology, Chemistry, or Physics)

• At least one vocational or trade subject

Elective Subjects (depending on your field)

• Science students: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Agricultural Science, Further Mathematics.

• Arts students: Literature-in-English, Government, CRS/IRS, History, Fine Arts.

• Commercial students: Economics, Commerce, Financial Accounting, Geography, Business Management.

👉 Choosing the right combination is very important because it determines your chances of gaining admission into higher institutions in Nigeria.

4. WAEC Registration Requirements in Nigeria

To successfully register for WAEC, you will need the following:

For School Candidates

• Personal details (name, DOB, state of origin, etc.).

• Passport photograph (plain white background).

• Biometric fingerprint capture.

• WAEC registration fee (paid through your school).

For Private Candidates (GCE)

• A WAEC Registration PIN (purchase from banks, accredited agents, or online).

• Personal details (must match your official documents like birth certificate).

• Recent passport photograph (white background).

• Biometric fingerprint capture (mandatory).

• Completed online registration form via WAEC e-Registration Portal.

5. WAEC Registration Fees in Nigeria (2025)

• School Candidates: Around ₦27,000 – ₦30,000 (varies depending on school).

• Private Candidates (GCE): Around ₦18,000 – ₦20,000 (early registration). Late registration attracts additional charges.

6. Important Rules for WAEC Registration

• Double-check your name, date of birth, and subjects before final submission.

• Corrections after registration are limited and may attract extra fees.

• Exam malpractice is a serious offense. Candidates caught cheating risk cancellation of results and disqualification.

7. WAEC Preparation Tips

Registering is only the first step — preparation is what ensures success.

• Download and study the official WAEC syllabus (available online).

• Practice WAEC past questions regularly.

• Join study groups or get a tutor for difficult subjects.

• Practice time management since WAEC is strictly timed.

8. WAEC Registration Deadlines in Nigeria (2025)

WAEC registration always has strict deadlines.

• School Candidates: Registration is usually handled by schools early in the year (closing around March/April).

• Private Candidates (GCE): Registration for the First Series closes in December/January, while the Second Series closes around July/August.

👉 Always check the official WAEC website or announcements for the latest updates.

✅ Quick Checklist Before Registering for WAEC in Nigeria

• Confirm if you’re a school candidate or private candidate.

• Decide on your subjects (8–9 for school, at least 7 for GCE).

• Get your passport photograph (white background).

• Buy your WAEC PIN (for private candidates).

• Do your biometric fingerprint capture.

• Register before the deadline.

• Start preparing with the syllabus and past questions.

Final Thoughts

Registering for WAEC in Nigeria is a major step toward your academic future. Whether you are writing as a school candidate or a private candidate (GCE), make sure you understand the requirements, deadlines, and rules before starting.

Most importantly, don’t just focus on registration — prepare early using the syllabus and past questions. With the right preparation, passing WAEC in flying colors is possible.

What You Need to Know Before You Register for WAEC in Nigeria