The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) conducts the General Certificate Examination (GCE) for private candidates, providing an opportunity for individuals to obtain a senior school certificate.
The 2025 WAEC GCE First Series exam is set to take place in early 2025, and understanding the timetable, registration process, and examination details is crucial for candidates.
This blog post will cover everything you need to know about the WAEC GCE First Series Exam Timetable for 2025.
Overview of the WAEC GCE First Series
The WAEC GCE is designed for private candidates who wish to take the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). This examination allows candidates to improve their academic qualifications and provides an alternative pathway for those who may not have completed their secondary education through traditional means.
Key Dates
- Registration Period: Registration for the 2025 WAEC GCE First Series began on December 18, 2024, and will close on January 22, 2025. Candidates must ensure they complete their registration within this timeframe.
- Mock Examination Dates: A mock examination will be conducted on January 23 and 24, 2025, to help candidates familiarize themselves with the examination format.
- Main Examination Dates: The main examination is scheduled to run from January 31 to February 17, 2025.
Registration Process
To register for the WAEC GCE First Series exam, candidates must follow these steps:
- Obtain Registration PIN: Candidates are required to pay a registration fee of ₦27,000, along with a bank commission of ₦500. Payments can be made at designated banks or accredited agents.
- Online Registration: After obtaining the PIN, candidates must access the WAEC registration portal at waeconline.org.ng to complete their registration.
- Biometric Verification: The registration process includes biometric features that will be used for validation at examination centers.
- Special Needs Registration: Candidates with special needs should indicate their impairments during registration to ensure appropriate accommodations are made.
Exam Timetable Details
The timetable for the WAEC GCE First Series exam is structured to accommodate various subjects over the scheduled dates. Below is a sample of the timetable:
| Date | Time | Subject | Paper Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 31 | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM | Mathematics (Objective) | MTH101 |
| January 31 | 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM | Mathematics (Essay) | MTH102 |
| February 1 | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM | English Language (Objective) | ENG101 |
| February 1 | 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM | English Language (Essay) | ENG102 |
| February 2 | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM | Civic Education (Objective) | CED101 |
| February 2 | 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM | Civic Education (Essay) | CED102 |
| … | … | … | … |
| February 17 | Various Times | Other Subjects as per timetable | Various |
Note: The above table provides a sample of subjects and times; candidates should refer to the official WAEC website for the complete and accurate timetable.
Preparation Tips
To succeed in the WAEC GCE First Series exam, candidates should consider the following preparation strategies:
- Familiarize Yourself with the CBT Format: Since this will be the first time WAEC conducts exams using a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format, it is essential to practice using available CBT software and past questions.
- Study Past Questions: Reviewing past exam questions can provide insight into common topics and question formats.
- Join Study Groups: Collaborating with fellow candidates can enhance understanding of difficult subjects and provide motivation.
- Attend Mock Exams: Participating in mock exams can help build confidence and improve time management skills during actual examinations.
Conclusion
The WAEC GCE First Series Exam Timetable for 2025 presents an important opportunity for private candidates seeking to enhance their academic qualifications. With registration opening from December to January and exams scheduled from January 31 to February 17, it is crucial for candidates to stay informed about key dates and prepare adequately.
By following the outlined registration process and utilizing effective study strategies, candidates can position themselves for success in this critical examination. For further updates and details, always refer to the official WAEC website and trusted educational platforms.