Every year, secondary school students in Nigeria and other West African countries prepare earnestly for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), commonly known as WAEC. One of the most asked questions by candidates and parents alike is, “When is WAEC starting?” For the 2026 WAEC examination, the schedule has been structured to ensure candidates are well prepared ahead of time. In this article, we will provide the full WAEC schedule for 2026, expected starting dates, subject arrangements, and tips to help you succeed.
Overview of WAEC and Its Importance
WAEC, the West African Examinations Council, is an examination body that conducts the WASSCE for final
year secondary school students across Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and The Gambia. The certificate
obtained after passing WAEC is recognized both nationally and internationally, making it a vital qualification for
securing university admission, scholarships, and employment opportunities.
When is WAEC Starting in 2026?
For the 2026 academic year, the WAEC examination is expected to commence in
early May 2026 and run through late June 2026. The specific start date will
likely fall on the first or second week of May, in line with the council’s traditional schedule.
Although the official timetable is usually released around February or March, candidates can begin preparation
with this timeframe in mind. If you are searching for “When is WAEC starting?”, the clear answer
is: WAEC 2026 will start in May 2026.
WAEC 2026 Full Schedule at a Glance
Below is a general breakdown of the expected WAEC schedule for 2026. Please note that this outline will be updated
once the official timetable is published by WAEC.
- February – March 2026: Official WAEC timetable released.
- April 2026: Last stage of registration, correction of entries, and distribution of exam
materials to schools. - Early May 2026: WAEC exams officially begin with core subjects like Mathematics and English
Language scheduled early. - Mid May – June 2026: Continuation of subject exams across Sciences, Arts, and Commercial
disciplines. - Late June 2026: Completion of the main examination.
- August – September 2026: Release of WAEC results.
Expected Subject Arrangement for WAEC 2026
While exact dates are not yet available, the subject arrangement for WAEC 2026 will follow the familiar pattern of
recent years. Candidates can expect the timetable to include:
- General Subjects: English Language, Mathematics, Civic Education.
- Science Subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Agricultural Science, Further Mathematics.
- Art Subjects: Literature-in-English, Government, CRS/IRS, Fine Arts, History.
- Commercial Subjects: Economics, Commerce, Financial Accounting, Business Management.
- Practical Papers: Science practicals such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and vocational
practicals like Home Economics and Technical Drawing.
How to Confirm the Official WAEC Timetable
The official WAEC timetable for 2026 will be published on the WAEC Nigeria portal and communicated to schools. Candidates are advised to:
- Check the WAEC official website regularly for updates.
- Follow announcements from your school examination officer.
- Download the PDF timetable once released for personal study planning.
You can also check the WAEC TIME-TABLE HERE
Preparation Tips for WAEC 2026
Knowing when WAEC is starting is only the first step. To succeed, candidates must begin
consistent preparation. Here are useful tips:
- Create a study timetable: Dedicate daily study hours to different subjects.
- Use WAEC past questions: Practice with past papers to understand the exam pattern.
- Revise practicals: Pay attention to science and vocational practicals.
- Attend group study: Join discussions to broaden your knowledge.
- Stay informed: Keep track of timetable updates and school notices.
When Will WAEC 2026 Results Be Released?
WAEC results are usually released about 45 to 60 days after the last paper. Therefore,
candidates should expect the 2026 WAEC results by August or September 2026.
Students can check their results online using the WAEC result checker or through their schools.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on WAEC 2026
1. When is WAEC starting in 2026?
WAEC 2026 is expected to start in May 2026, running until June 2026.
2. Has the official WAEC timetable for 2026 been released?
Not yet. It will be released by WAEC around February – March 2026.
3. How can I download the WAEC 2026 timetable?
You can download it from the official WAEC Nigeria
website once published.
4. When will WAEC 2026 results be out?
Results are expected to be out between August and September 2026.
5. What should I do before WAEC starts?
Focus on intensive revision, practice past questions, and prepare for practicals.
Final Thoughts
If you are wondering, “When is WAEC starting?”, the answer is clear. WAEC 2026 will begin in
May 2026 and run through June. While waiting for the official timetable, candidates should make
use of this time to study effectively, practice consistently, and stay updated on WAEC announcements. With the
right preparation, success in the 2026 WAEC examination is within reach.
