The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has officially opened the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for Private Candidates – First Series registration. Prospective candidates are urged to complete their entries before the closing date: Friday, January 30, 2026.
This annual external examination offers private candidates — including school leavers, repeat candidates, and others outside the regular school system — the opportunity to earn the Senior Secondary School Certificate necessary for tertiary admissions, employment, and professional qualifications.
📍 Official Registration Link
Candidates should register online using WAEC’s official private candidate portal:
👉 https://www.waeconline.org.ng/ — WAEC e-Registration for Private Candidates (Official)
This is the portal where candidates key in their registration PIN and complete their biodata and subject selections.
💷 How Much It Costs
The registration fee for the 2026 WAEC GCE First Series is approximately ₦27,000 (Twenty-Seven Thousand Naira) — exclusive of additional service charges, internet fees, or biometric charges sometimes levied by service centres.
Candidates should confirm exact amounts with accredited vendors or at the point of PIN purchase.
📝 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Register
Here’s how candidates can complete their WAEC GCE registration:
1. Purchase a Registration PIN
- Buy the WAEC GCE registration PIN from authorised banks or accredited vendors.
- The PIN includes a serial number needed to start the online process.
2. Visit the Official Portal
3. Log in with Your PIN
- Enter the PIN and serial number to begin your registration online.
4. Fill in Personal Details
- Complete your biodata, including full names, date of birth, contact information, and National Identification Number (NIN) where required.
5. Select Subjects
- Choose subjects relevant to your academic and career goals.
- Ensure you meet the required minimum and maximum subject count.
6. Upload a Passport Photograph
- Ensure the photo meets WAEC standards.
7. Biometric Capture
- Visit an accredited registration centre to complete biometric fingerprint capture — a compulsory step for all candidates.
8. Review & Submit
- Verify all details, then submit your application.
- Print your confirmation or photocard for reference.
📅 Important Deadline
- Normal Registration Ends: Friday, January 30, 2026
Candidates are strongly advised to complete registration before this deadline to avoid late fees or disqualification.
📌 Helpful Tips for Candidates
- Double-check your name, date of birth, and subject choices before submission.
- Keep copies of your registration confirmation and WAEC photocard.
- Visit authorised centres for biometric capture as early as possible to avoid delays.
Akahi News will continue to provide updated information and guidance on WAEC examinations, including timetable releases and preparation resources.
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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