WAEC to Introduce Hybrid Computer-Based WASSCE for 2026 School Candidates

Lagos, Nigeria – October 24, 2025:
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has confirmed plans to launch a hybrid Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination (CB-WASSCE) for school candidates starting in 2026.

This marks a major shift from the traditional handwritten examination system. The new model will mix computer-based testing for objective questions with handwritten essays and practicals, ensuring smooth adoption of digital assessment while keeping core writing skills intact.

Background of the Digital Transition

WAEC began its move toward digital examinations in 2024 with pilot Computer-Based Tests (CBT) for private candidates. The project expanded in 2025, allowing more schools to participate.

With full approval from the Federal Ministry of Education, WAEC is now set to implement the hybrid CB-WASSCE across all secondary schools in 2026.

To ensure readiness, the council held a trial session for computer-based essay writing on October 23, 2025, at its Testing Centre in Ogba, Lagos.
During the event, principals and exam officers discussed how the system would work, logistics, and updates to the WAEC CIVAMPEMS registration portal.

Key Features of the Hybrid CB-WASSCE

1. Combination of Paper and Computer Tests

Objective questions will be taken on computers or projected screens. However, essay and practical sections will still be handwritten. This combination helps WAEC modernize its process without losing traditional writing standards.

2. Centralized Examination Centres

Instead of writing exams in their own schools, candidates will take tests at designated CBT centres. WAEC will assign these centres randomly to promote fairness and reduce malpractice.

3. Strong Logistics Support

School authorities, with help from state governments, will manage the movement of students and exam materials, such as lab tools for science practicals.

4. Updated Subjects and Curriculum

While the national curriculum remains the same, a few trade subjects have been renamed, and two new subjects have been introduced. The CIVAMPEMS portal has been upgraded to reflect these changes.

5. Easy-to-Use CBT Interface

The examination platform requires only basic computer knowledge. WAEC encourages schools to organize mock CBT sessions to help students gain confidence before the exams.

6. Security and Integrity Measures

Exams will be monitored using digital surveillance. Each student will receive personalized question sets, and all papers will be serialized. These steps will help prevent cheating and ensure fairness.

Why the Change Matters

The new hybrid CB-WASSCE aims to solve common problems such as exam malpractice, result delays, and inconsistencies.

By combining handwritten and computer-based components, WAEC hopes to:

Improve speed and accuracy in result processing,
Strengthen transparency and exam credibility,
Prepare students for a technology-driven world, and
Align Nigeria’s exam system with global best practices used by Cambridge Assessment and ETS.

Furthermore, this blended approach ensures that schools with limited digital facilities can still participate effectively.

Next Steps for Schools and Students

WAEC has advised schools to begin preparations early. Students should practice typing and computer skills, while schools are urged to conduct mock CBT sessions before the main exams.

The Council also plans to run nationwide sensitization programmes to guide teachers, parents, and exam officers through the transition.

Conclusion

The 2026 Hybrid Computer-Based WASSCE represents a major step forward in Nigeria’s education system. It combines the benefits of technology with the reliability of traditional testing.

WAEC is calling on all education stakeholders—schools, parents, and students—to support this reform and ensure a smooth transition to a modern, fair, and efficient examination process.

Contact and Official Links

For verified updates, practice materials, and registration guides, visit www.waecdirect.org or follow @waecnigeria on social media.
You can also contact the nearest WAEC Zonal or State Office for more information.

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WAEC to Introduce Hybrid Computer-Based WASSCE for 2026 School Candidates

Background of the Digital Transition

Key Features of the Hybrid CB-WASSCE