WAEC Commences Registration for 2025 GCE Second Series: CBT Introduced for the First Time

WAEC Commences Registration for 2025 GCE Second Series: CBT Introduced for the First Time

In a significant development for private candidates across West Africa, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has officially begun registration for the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) Second Series for Private Candidates. The announcement, which comes with a few groundbreaking changes, marks the first time the examination body will be conducting the exams using the Computer-Based Test (CBT) format.

Registration commenced on Monday, 9th June 2025, with a fee of ₦27,000, and is scheduled to close on Friday, 22nd August 2025 for PIN generation. However, candidates will have until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 24th August 2025 to complete their biometric capturing and online registration. WAEC has stressed that all prospective candidates must complete the process strictly within this timeline.

For those unfamiliar with the CBT format, the switch might feel like stepping into a new world. I remember the first time I saw a CBT interface — it was during a mock test, and even though I considered myself tech-savvy, I fumbled. Navigating the timer, understanding the on-screen instructions, and managing the pressure all at once felt like juggling glass balls. That’s why this year’s candidates must be well-prepared, not just in subject content, but in digital literacy.

Institutions like Akahi Tutors, Ile-Ife, 08038644328 have risen to the occasion by offering CBT training and mock sessions tailored specifically for WASSCE candidates. With seasoned tutors, real-time simulations, and hands-on support, such centres are proving to be a lifeline, especially for candidates with limited computer exposure.

Mode of Payment and Registration Process

Payment for the exam can be made at various commercial banks including First Bank, UBA, Zenith, GTBank, Access Bank, and others. A separate commission of ₦500 is also payable to the bank or accredited agents during the transaction. Beyond the traditional payment route, WAEC has introduced multiple cashless options such as Palmpay, Paga, Paycom, Interswitch, Bancwize, SystemSpecs, and several other fintech platforms, offering flexibility and ease for tech-inclined users.

Once candidates have their Registration PIN, they are to proceed to www.waeconline.org.ng to complete the process. The portal supports biometric validation, a security measure WAEC says is aimed at curbing impersonation and ensuring integrity in the examination process.

Walk-in Option for Late Applicants

Interestingly, for candidates who miss the main registration window, there is still hope. WAEC is offering a “Walk-in-Candidate” option, albeit at a premium. For ₦45,000, candidates can register at least 24 hours before the paper they wish to sit for. While this may sound like a safety net, it is certainly not the best route to rely on, given the cost and risk of missing the cut-off.

Special Needs and Accessibility

WAEC has also taken steps to be inclusive. Candidates with impairments such as low vision, speech challenges, spastic conditions, or hearing difficulties can register like everyone else but are required to indicate their specific needs clearly during the process.

Registration Locations

Prospective candidates can register at accredited banks, WAEC offices, “WAEC Registration Points,” and cyber cafés authorised by the council. The use of a UareU DigitalPersona fingerprint scanner remains the only accepted biometric device for registration.

Final Advice to Candidates

Candidates are urged to ensure that their personal data — name, date of birth, passport photograph, subjects — are entered correctly, as corrections may not be possible after submission. Upon successful registration, each candidate must print out the Admission Notice, which includes their exam details and Result Checker PIN. This document will serve as their official ID during the examination.

The introduction of CBT to WASSCE is no doubt a watershed moment. For students, this isn’t just another exam—it’s a test of adaptability, digital readiness, and mental resilience. And as we always say at Akahi Tutors, 08038644328 “It’s not just about passing; it’s about thriving in a world that’s changing faster than ever.”

One hopes that this innovation will not only enhance the efficiency of the exam process but also help prepare students for a future where digital proficiency is no longer optional — it’s essential.

For further guidance, training, or questions about the registration process, candidates are encouraged to contact certified training centres like Akahi Tutors or visit the WAEC website.

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Reported by Joseph Iyaji, Akahi News
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