WAEC set to launch first-ever computer-based WASSCE for school candidates

In a groundbreaking step towards digital transformation, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) is set to conduct its first Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination (CB-WASSCE) for school candidates.

The innovative move, designed to modernize the examination process and curb malpractice, was officially announced during a press briefing held at WAEC’s national office in Yaba, Lagos.

Dr. Amos Dangut, Head of the Nigeria National Office of WAEC, revealed that the council is fully prepared to administer the digital exams, which are scheduled to run from April 24 to June 20, 2025.

According to Dr. Dangut, the adoption of computer-based testing marks a major milestone in WAEC’s efforts to align with global best practices and improve the credibility of its examinations.

“The Council has introduced its maiden Computer-Based WASSCE for School Candidates, 2025,” he stated.“It will interest you to know that from this year, two candidates will not have the same questions on each number. This is part of a paradigm shift in test administration techniques to uphold academic integrity.”

WAEC revealed that 1,973,253 students from 23,554 schools have registered for the examination, a significant rise from last year’s figures. Female candidates make up a slight majority with 994,025 (50.37%), compared to 979,228 males (49.63%).

According to Dr. Dangut, the examination will span 74 subjects and 196 papers, with over 26,000 senior secondary teachers assigned as supervisors across the nation.

Acknowledging past disruptions due to security issues in some regions, he said WAEC is working closely with the Nigeria Police and state governments to ensure a seamless process.“Conducting examinations in such situations has been challenging, though surmounted. The Council has continued to partner with the Nigeria Police Force and State Governments to ensure the smooth and hitch-free conduct of the examination.”

On the issue of cheating, Dangut stressed that the council remains firm in its efforts to curb malpractice.“The Council decisively deals with examination malpractice. Candidates’ paper variations for the CB-WASSCE 2025 have been preprinted. Any candidate who chooses to write a paper other than the one assigned will bear the consequences.”

He urged educators, parents, and the media to help discourage dishonest practices.“School principals and teachers should sensitise their students to the dangers of this terrible crime against humanity. A word is enough for the wise,” he said.

To support students, WAEC has introduced digital tools to enhance preparation.He said, “WAEC E-Study Portal, which provides access to past questions, marking schemes, and learning plans, WAEC E-Learning Portal, which offers performance analysis and solutions to common challenges faced by students, and WAEC Konnect, which facilitates communication and updates for candidates and stakeholders.”

Additionally, WAEC has compiled past question papers and Chief Examiners’ Reports to help students understand exam expectations and improve outcomes.

Dangut also issued a warning to those operating fake exam websites.“Parents are hereby cautioned to desist from patronising these evildoers who are hell-bent on frustrating the efforts of WAEC,” Dr. Dangut warned. “We shall, as usual, work hand-in-hand with the Nigerian Police Force to bring perpetrators to book.”

He assured candidates that the results would be available within 45 days after the exam concludes, and certificates will follow within 90 days.“Digital copies of certificates will be accessible through the WAEC Digital Certificate platform,” he said.