WAEC 2026: Official Timetable Released as Exams Begin April 21
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has officially commenced the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for school candidates. According to the released timetable, the exams started on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, and are scheduled to run until Friday, June 19, 2026 .
This year marks a historic transition for the examination body, as the Federal Government has mandated a full migration to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for this administration .
Key Dates for Core Subjects
Candidates are advised to check the official WAEC Nigeria website for the complete schedule. However, the confirmed dates for the most popular core subjects are as follows:
Specific practical sessions for subjects like Foods and Nutrition began earlier in April to kick off the examination calendar .
The Shift to Computer-Based Testing (CBT)
The 2026 WASSCE is a landmark examination. Following a directive by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, WAEC has fully implemented CBT for both the objective and essay sections of the exam. This move is designed to modernize assessments, enhance security, and eliminate examination malpractices .
WAEC has assured students, parents, and schools that no candidate will be disadvantaged by the transition. The council has been training students on the use of digital devices for essay responses to ensure a smooth national rollout .
Recent Registration Updates
Leading up to the exam, WAEC extended the registration deadline for the 2026 CB-WASSCE to March 13, 2026, to accommodate candidates facing technical issues or verification challenges. Officials noted that this extension was final, allowing all prospective candidates to complete their applications before the commencement of the written papers .
Beyond Nigeria: Regional Examination Dates
While the Nigerian timetable is currently in progress, WAEC Liberia has also announced its schedule, with the WASSCE for 12th graders set to commence on June 1, 2026 . In Ghana, preparations are underway for the BECE, which will run from May 4 to May 11, 2026 .
Advice for Candidates
As the examination enters its second week, students are urged to:
Stay tuned to Edusaint for more updates, exam tips, and the latest news on the 2026 examination season.