When is WAEC 2025 Starting? – A Comprehensive Guide

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) is the principal examination body responsible for administering the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). Thousands of students across West Africa—including Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and The Gambia—participate in this critical academic milestone each year. As the academic year progresses, one of the most frequently asked questions is, “When is WAEC 2025 starting?”

Photo Credit: Premium Times Nigeria

This question reflects the urgency and importance students, parents, and educators place on timely exam preparation. In this guide, we provide a complete breakdown of the WAEC 2025 examination schedule, how to access official information, and tips for academic success.

Read Also: When is WAEC Starting? – Full Guide to WAEC 2025 Exam Dates and Timetable

What is WAEC and Its Role in Education?

WAEC was established in 1952 to coordinate standardised testing across its member countries. The body plays a central role in education by providing credible assessments for secondary school students. These exams determine university admissions, scholarships, and job opportunities.

WAEC Member Countries:

• Nigeria
• Ghana
• Sierra Leone
• Liberia
• The Gambia

Types of WAEC Examinations:

• WASSCE for School Candidates: Also known as May/June WAEC. It is written by students in their final year of secondary school.
• WASSCE for Private Candidates (WAEC GCE): Conducted in two series—January/February (1st series) and August/September (2nd series)—for those not in the regular school system.

The WAEC certificate is internationally recognised and a key academic qualification for students in the region.

When is WAEC 2025 Starting for School Candidates?

Based on historical patterns and the preliminary calendar, WAEC 2025 for School Candidates is expected to start on Monday, May 5, 2025, and run through Friday, June 20, 2025.

This start date is derived from the timelines of previous years, pending the council’s official release of the WAEC 2025 timetable.

Sources of Information:

• WAEC Nigeria official website (https://www.waecnigeria.org/)
• School authorities and exam coordinators
• Press releases from WAEC

In previous years, WAEC typically began in the first or second week of May, making the projected date consistent with past schedules.

Read Also: How To Get WAEC Certificate Online in 2025

Understanding the WAEC 2025 Timetable

The WAEC timetable is structured by subject category and examination session. Each exam day includes morning (9:00 AM) and afternoon (2:00 PM) sessions. Subjects are divided into core and elective groups.

Core Subjects:

• English Language
• Mathematics
• Civic Education
• Biology
• Economics

Elective Subjects:

• Literature in English
• Geography
• Chemistry
• Government
• Technical Drawing

Sample Breakdown:

• Monday, May 5: English Language 1 & 2 (Essay & Objective)
• Wednesday, May 7: Mathematics 1 & 2
• Friday, May 9: Biology Practical

Always refer to the official WAEC timetable to avoid confusion and plan appropriately.

When is WAEC GCE 2025 Starting?

The WAEC GCE, or Private Candidates Exam, is held in two series each year:

1st Series (Jan/Feb):

• Start Date: Monday, January 20, 2025
• End Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2025
• Registration Period: October to December 2024

2nd Series (Aug/Sept):

• Start Date: Monday, August 11, 2025
• End Date: Friday, September 19, 2025
• Registration Period: May to July 2025

The GCE is best suited for private students, re-sit candidates, or those improving their grades.

Country-Specific Start Dates for WAEC 2025

Although WAEC strives for a harmonised schedule, slight differences may occur based on national calendars.

Nigeria:

• Projected Start Date: May 5, 2025

Ghana:

• Usually aligns with Nigeria’s schedule but may start a few days earlier or later depending on national holidays.

Sierra Leone, Liberia, The Gambia:

• There is a similar WAEC calendar, but check local WAEC branches for confirmation.

How to Access the Official WAEC 2025 Timetable

The official WAEC timetable can be accessed via:

• WAEC Nigeria Website: www.waecnigeria.org
• Educational Blogs and News Outlets: Reliable ones like Myschool.ng and Nairaland Education Forum.
• Schools and Exam Centers: Often posted on school bulletin boards.

File Format: PDF (printable and shareable)

Warning: Avoid downloading timetables from unofficial or suspicious websites to prevent misinformation.

WAEC 2025 Registration Details

Registration Period:

• For School Candidates: October 2024 to February 2025
• For Private Candidates (GCE): Based on 1st and 2nd series timelines

Documents Needed:

• Birth certificate
• School ID or National ID
• Passport photograph

Biometric Data:

• Thumbprint for identity verification
• Recent digital passport photo

Registration is often done in schools, but candidates must confirm submission with WAEC-approved centers.

How to Prepare for WAEC 2025

Study Plan:

• Start early, preferably six months before the exam.
• Use a personalised timetable.

Past Questions:

• Solve WAEC past questions for the past 10 years.
• Understand marking schemes.

Resources:

• Textbooks recommended by WAEC
• WAEC Syllabus
• YouTube and online tutorials

Mock Exams:

• Participate in school-organized mock exams
• Take practice CBT (Computer-Based Test) if applicable

Health & Mindset:

• Eat well and sleep regularly
• Avoid stress and anxiety

What to Know Before the WAEC Exam Starts

Essential Items:

• WAEC photo card/slip
• HB pencils, erasers, rulers
• Approved calculator
• Valid ID (for GCE)

Exam Rules:

• No mobile phones or smart watches
• Arrive at least 30 minutes early
• Strictly no malpractice

Dress Code:

• School uniform for school candidates
• Decent attire for private candidates

Possible Changes or Updates in WAEC 2025

New Developments May Include:

• Online mock exams
• Changes in practical subjects procedure
• Enhanced biometric verification

Government Policy:

• Public holidays or political disruptions may affect schedules
• COVID-19 or health guidelines if reintroduced

Stay connected with school authorities and WAEC’s official channels.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is WAEC 2025 starting in Nigeria?
WAEC 2025 is expected to start on Monday, May 5, 2025.

Will WAEC 2025 be postponed?
There is no official notice of postponement. Follow WAEC updates for changes.

Is the WAEC timetable the same across all countries?
Mostly yes, with slight variations due to national holidays.

When is WAEC GCE 2025 starting?
1st Series begins January 20, 2025; 2nd Series begins August 11, 2025.

What is the deadline for WAEC 2025 registration?
School candidate registration typically ends in February 2025.

How can I download the WAEC 2025 timetable?
Visit www.waecnigeria.org and navigate to the “Timetables” section.

Can I write the WAEC in two sittings in 2025?
You can take the school exam and the GCE if necessary.

Conclusion

Knowing when WAEC 2025 is starting is essential for academic planning and success. With the projected start date set for May 5, 2025, students should focus on preparation, practice, and staying informed. This guide has outlined everything from registration to exam rules and FAQs.

To ensure you don’t miss any ccal updates, always refer to the official WAEC website or speak directly with your school or exam center. Early preparation is the key to outstanding results.