The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has officially announced a major update that affects every student preparing for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). According to the latest information released by the Council, the full Computer-Based Test (CBT) system—which was earlier expected to begin in 2026—has now been postponed to 2027.This means that no student will be mandated or compelled to write a full CBT exam in 2026. Instead, candidates will have the option to choose the format that works best for them. This update has brought relief to many students, schools, and parents who were worried about the sudden transition to full digital examination processes.
The announcement was made by the WAEC Nigeria Committee Chairperson, Hajia Binta Abdulkadir, during the 63rd Nigerian National Committee (NNC) Meeting held in Umuahia. The decision reflects WAEC’s commitment to ensuring a smooth transition to technology-driven examinations without putting unnecessary pressure on students or schools.
Moving an entire examination system from paper-based testing to computer-based testing is a significant transformation. It requires adequate preparation at every level—from students to schools, exam centers, and even WAEC staff.Several factors contributed to WAEC’s decision to shift the full implementation to 2027:
Many secondary schools across West Africa, especially in rural areas, do not have enough computer systems, reliable internet access, or stable electricity to support full CBT examinations. WAEC wants every candidate to have equal opportunities without infrastructural disadvantages.
Thousands of students are still unfamiliar with CBT environments, especially those who attend schools with limited ICT facilities. WAEC aims to give schools and candidates more time to adjust, train, and practice with CBT standards before making it compulsory.
Introducing CBT for a large population requires careful testing of systems, examination centers, and technical support structures. WAEC wants to avoid errors, glitches, or network failures that could affect students’ performance.
For the 2026 examination, WAEC is giving students complete freedom to choose their exam format. Two options will be available:
Students who feel comfortable with computers or who have practiced CBT through JAMB, mock CBT tests, or school ICT lessons can choose this option.
The CBT format will cover:
CBT centers will be accredited and monitored closely to ensure fairness and technical stability.
Students who prefer the traditional examination style can go for this option.
This format includes:
WAEC reassures students that both formats will offer the same questions, the same marking standards, and the same level of fairness.
Although the full transition is postponed, WAEC will slowly begin to introduce more technology-based processes. Students should expect:
This means that even if students choose the paper-based format in 2026, they will still benefit from training that prepares them for the digital future.
WAEC’s decision is also a call to action for schools. Schools are expected to:
Schools that prepare early will position their students for success when the full CBT begins in 2027.
Although the transition may feel challenging at first, the CBT system brings several advantages:
CBT allows automated grading for objective questions and quicker processing time for theory answers. Students will likely receive their results faster than with paper-based exams.
Technology-based exams are harder to cheat in, creating a fairer system for everyone.
CBT allows students to move between questions easily, mark questions to revisit later, and keep track of time digitally.
Using computers for exams builds digital literacy—an essential skill for university studies and future careers.
Many students initially feared that WAEC would force everyone into the CBT system right away. This postponement shows that WAEC is listening to concerns and prioritizing students’ comfort and readiness.Here are three reasons why students should remain calm:
Here are practical steps you can take:
The key is to stay informed and practice early—this will build confidence.
WAEC’s decision to shift the full CBT implementation to 2027 is a thoughtful step that prioritizes fairness, preparation, and student success. By allowing candidates to choose between CBT and paper & pen formats in 2026, WAEC ensures that no student is left behind during the transition to digital examinations.Whether you choose CBT or the traditional format, what matters most is preparation, consistency, and confidence. With gradual steps, practice, and the right guidance, students will be fully ready for the future of examinations.If you need help with WAEC past questions, CBT practice materials, or updates, feel free to ask anytime!
