WAEC Shifts Full CBT Examination to 2027: The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has officially postponed the full rollout of its Computer-Based Testing (CBT) examination system to 2027, shifting away from the Federal Government’s earlier directive that mandated a complete transition in 2026.
This announcement was made by the Chairman of the Nigeria National Committee (NNC) of WAEC, Hajia Binta Abdulkadir, during the 63rd Annual Meeting of the NNC held in Umuahia, Abia State.
WAEC also confirmed that the 2026 May/June WASSCE will now be conducted as a pilot phase, allowing candidates to choose between:
- CBT format
- Traditional paper-and-pen format
This follows months of public concern about the readiness of schools and students for a nationwide full-CBT transition.
Why WAEC Shifted Full CBT to 2027
Addressing stakeholders, Hajia Abdulkadir emphasized that:
“No candidate sitting the 2026 WASSCE will be disenfranchised in any form.”
WAEC outlined several reasons for delaying full implementation:
1. Inadequate CBT Infrastructure
Many secondary schools, especially in rural communities, still lack:
- functional computer laboratories
- stable electricity
- reliable internet connectivity
- trained ICT personnel
A full CBT exam in 2026 would disadvantage thousands of students.
2. Ongoing Pilot Training
WAEC revealed it has begun training senior secondary school students on:
- using tablets
- digitally writing essay answers
- navigating CBT exam interfaces
However, more time is needed for nationwide readiness.
3. Updated Curriculum Demands More Time
Students are still adjusting to the recently revised Basic and Secondary School Curriculum, which introduced:
- new subjects
- new trade options
- updated Continuous Assessment Score (CASS) requirements
To ensure fairness, WAEC has extended the CASS upload window so schools can accurately capture internal assessment marks for candidates who take newly approved subjects.
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Curriculum Update: Students Free to Choose Electives Across Groups
Hajia Abdulkadir also addressed public concerns about subject eligibility under the new curriculum. She clarified that students will not be barred from legitimate elective choices they have been taking since SS1. Examples include:
- Science students may still choose Economics where appropriate.
- Business students may continue to offer subjects such as Government.
- No student will be forced to drop subjects they have been studying unless the school follows the approved curriculum changes and uploads the correct CASS records.
This clarification is intended to reassure candidates and parents that subject-choice fairness remains a priority.
WAEC Honours Top Students in the 2024 WASSCE
At the NNC meeting, WAEC celebrated top performers from the 2024 May/June WASSCE. Key honourees include:
National Best Student (Overall)
- Ajisafe Qoreebullah Olamilekan — Eemaan Foundation College, Osogbo, Osun State.
Total Score: 580.8535. Eight A1s including Mathematics and English. Currently studying Medicine & Surgery at the Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun.
2nd & 3rd Best Candidates
- Onovo Joan Eberechukwu — studying Medicine at the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
- Mbah Chibukem Mac-Donald — studying Medicine at Afe Babalola University (ABUA).
All the top three students are from private schools. WAEC also recognised outstanding special needs candidates for their achievements.
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What Stakeholders Are Saying
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State praised WAEC’s efforts to strengthen exam integrity and commended steps taken to curb malpractice. He described the measures as “timely, courageous, and essential to safeguard the future of our young ones.”
Dr. Amos Dangut, Head of WAEC Nigeria’s National Office, noted that the awards programme encourages healthy competition and excellence across schools nationwide. He urged awardees to continue working hard in their academic pursuits.
Hajia Abdulkadir reiterated the Federal Government’s support for WAEC and its commitment to ensuring Nigerian students are competitive globally.
Summary
| Issue | WAEC Position |
|---|---|
| Full CBT rollout | Postponed to 2027 |
| 2026 WASSCE format | Pilot year — candidates can choose CBT or paper |
| Curriculum changes | Elective choices preserved; CASS window extended |
| Student preparation | Ongoing training and pilot testing |
Conclusion
WAEC decision to delay the full CBT transition until 2027 offers necessary time for schools, students, and stakeholders to prepare. The 2026 pilot allowing a choice between CBT and traditional formats provides a measured approach to digital migration without disenfranchising candidates.
Students, parents, and schools are advised to keep checking WAEC’s official channels for further guidelines, practice resources, and updates on CASS uploads. Proper preparation will ensure a fair and smooth transition to a modern examination system.
Kolade Kayode, known as Mr. KK, I am a Nigerian education blogger and founder of MasterWAEC.com. Passionate about student success, I simplifies WAEC exam preparation with accurate tips and resources to help students excel.
