WAEC GCE (1st Series) 2026 Registration: CBT Format, Fees, and Deadline January 30

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has commenced registration for the General Certificate Education (GCE) 1st Series 2026 examination. This marks a historic transition as WAEC introduces computer-based testing (CBT) for the GCE for the first time, with registration closing on Friday, January 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM.

Critical Registration Information

Registration Timeline

• Registration Status: Currently ongoing (commenced December 2025)
• Deadline: Friday, January 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM (FIRM)
• Registration Window: Candidates must conclude registration within two weeks of first portal access

Registration Fees

Historic Change: CBT Format Introduced

Computer-Based Testing (CBT) Details

WAEC GCE 2026 marks the first computer-based testing administration for GCE. Here's what you need to know:

• Objective Papers: Fully digital (answered entirely on computer)
• Essay Papers: Hybrid format (digital questions, written responses)
• Practical Exams: Hybrid format (digital questions, physical demonstrations/written responses)

How to Register for WAEC GCE 2026

Step 1: Purchase Registration PIN

Visit any of these authorized outlets to purchase your WAEC GCE PIN:

Bank Payment

Multiple Nigerian banks accept WAEC payments. Visit any authorized bank branch.

Cashless Payment Platforms

• Bancwize
• Interswitch
• Paycom
• Paga
• Palmpay
• Other authorized electronic payment platforms

Cyber Cafes

Authorized cyber cafes also sell WAEC GCE registration PINs.

Step 2: Register Online

1. Visit www.waeconline.org.ng
2. Click on "GCE Registration"
3. Enter your purchased PIN and serial number
4. Create a registration account
5. Complete biometric validation (fingerprints, photograph)
6. Fill in personal details accurately
7. Select your subjects (maximum allowed by WAEC)
8. Choose preferred exam center
9. Upload digital passport photograph
10. Review all information carefully
11. Submit registration
12. Print your admission notice (serves as exam ID)

Step 3: Complete Within Two Weeks

Critical Requirement: Once you access the portal with your PIN, you MUST complete your registration within two weeks. Failure to complete within this timeframe may result in forfeiture of your PIN.

Digital Passport Photograph Requirements

Photo Specifications

• Format: JPEG only
• Dimensions: 275 x 314 pixels (exact)
• Background: Contrasting color (preferably white or light blue)
• Quality: Clear, recent photograph showing full face
• Dress Code: Formal attire, no sunglasses or head coverings (except religious reasons)

Getting the Right Photo

• Visit a professional photographer familiar with WAEC requirements
• Request specifically for "WAEC GCE digital passport (275x314 pixels)"
• Verify dimensions before uploading
• Keep the digital file safe for upload during registration

Important Registration Requirements

Personal Information Needed

• Valid email address: Must be active and accessible
• Active phone number: For receiving important updates
• Date of birth: Must match O'Level records
• State of origin: Accurate information required
• Center preference: Choose accessible exam location

Biometric Validation

During registration, you will need to:

• Capture fingerprints at a designated biometric center
• Upload digital passport photograph
• Complete identity verification process

Exam Day Requirements

What to Bring

• Printed admission notice: This serves as your exam identification (MANDATORY)
• Writing materials: Pens, pencils, rulers, mathematical instruments
• Calculator: For subjects that permit calculator use

What NOT to Bring

• Mobile phones: Strictly prohibited in exam hall
• Electronic devices: Smartwatches, earphones, etc. are banned
• Unauthorized materials: No textbooks, notes, or study materials

Payment Options

Authorized Payment Channels

Purchase your WAEC GCE registration PIN through:

Bank Branches

• Visit any authorized Nigerian bank
• Request WAEC GCE registration form/PIN
• Pay ₦27,500 (registration + bank commission)
• Collect your PIN and serial number

Online Payment Platforms

• Bancwize, Interswitch, Paycom
• Paga, Palmpay
• Other WAEC-approved electronic payment platforms
• Follow platform instructions to generate PIN

CBT Format: What to Expect

Objective (Multiple Choice) Papers

• Fully computer-based: All questions displayed on screen
• Digital answering: Select answers using computer mouse/keyboard
• Timed exam: Automatic submission when time expires
• Navigation: Move between questions freely within time limit

Essay and Practical Papers

• Hybrid format: Questions displayed on screen
• Written responses: Write answers in answer booklets provided
• Physical practicals: Science practicals conducted as usual

Preparing for CBT

• Familiarize yourself with basic computer use (mouse, keyboard)
• Practice answering multiple-choice questions digitally if possible
• Manage time effectively during computer-based sections
• Stay calm and focused during the digital exam experience

Subject Selection

Choosing Your Subjects

• Select subjects carefully based on your career goals
• Ensure subjects meet university admission requirements
• Choose subjects you're well-prepared for
• Verify subject combinations are acceptable for your intended course
• Maximum number of subjects as specified by WAEC

Registration Best Practices

Before Registration

• Prepare your digital passport photograph (275x314 pixels, JPEG)
• Have valid email and phone number ready
• Decide on subjects and exam center in advance
• Purchase PIN from authorized sources only

During Registration

• Double-check all personal information for accuracy
• Verify subject selections carefully
• Choose an accessible exam center
• Complete registration within two weeks of PIN purchase
• Print admission notice immediately after registration

After Registration

• Keep admission notice safe (you need it for exams)
• Save registration details and reference numbers
• Monitor WAEC website for exam timetable release
• Begin serious preparation for your selected subjects

Important Resources

Visit www.waeconline.org.ng to access:

• Exam Timetables: Check when your subjects will be examined
• Syllabuses: Download subject syllabuses to guide your preparation
• Regulations: Review exam rules and conduct guidelines
• FAQs: Find answers to common registration questions
• Updates: Get latest information about the examination

Critical Warnings

Avoid These Mistakes

• Don't delay registration: Late registration costs ₦45,000 (nearly double)
• Don't buy PINs from unauthorized sources: Risk getting invalid PINs
• Don't share your PIN: Each PIN is for single-candidate use only
• Don't upload wrong photo format: Must be JPEG 275x314 pixels
• Don't miss the two-week completion window: Complete registration promptly

For Enquiries

For assistance with WAEC GCE registration:

• Website: www.waeconline.org.ng
• WAEC Offices: Visit nearest WAEC office for support
• Help Desk: Contact WAEC through official channels on the website

Key Takeaways

• Registration open NOW - started December 2025
• Deadline: January 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM
• Normal fee: ₦27,500 (including ₦500 bank commission)
• Late fee: ₦45,500 (walk-in candidates)
• First CBT GCE: Objective papers fully digital
• Register at: www.waeconline.org.ng
• Complete within 2 weeks of accessing portal with PIN