The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has extended the registration deadline for the 2026 Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination (CB-WASSCE) for school candidates by one day.
The examination body made the announcement on Friday through a brief statement shared on its official X account, informing stakeholders that the new registration deadline is now Friday, March 13, 2026.
WAEC explained that the extension followed earlier reports of technical challenges and the heavy volume of registrations recorded since the process began in January.
Despite the temporary issues, the council reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the computer-based examination will be accessible to candidates across the country, regardless of their location. It assured that once the system is fully implemented in 2026, no student will be excluded from participating due to limited access to technology or infrastructure.
WAEC emphasised that measures are already being put in place to guarantee inclusivity, particularly for candidates in rural and underserved communities, so they can enjoy the same opportunities as students in urban centres.
The Head of the WAEC National Office, Amos Dangut, gave this assurance during a sensitisation meeting held in Abuja for members of the National Assembly Committees on Education. The session was organised to brief lawmakers on the framework for the CB-WASSCE and to seek their support in addressing potential challenges associated with the transition.
Dangut explained that the council has begun the gradual introduction of computer-based testing, starting with objective questions in selected subjects. He noted that the process will eventually be expanded to include theory and practical components.
According to him, the phased implementation is designed to help schools, teachers, and students adjust to the new examination format while enabling WAEC to identify and resolve possible technical or infrastructural challenges.
He further revealed that consultations are ongoing with state governments, school owners, and other education stakeholders to ensure the establishment of adequate computer-based testing centres across the country.
Dangut also noted that WAEC is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Education and other relevant agencies to ensure stable electricity supply, reliable internet connectivity, and the proper training of personnel who will supervise the centres during the examinations.
Reaffirming the council’s commitment to fairness, Dangut said candidates in rural communities will not be disadvantaged. He explained that examination centres are being mapped out across local government areas to reduce the distance students may need to travel and minimise financial pressure on parents and guardians.
He added that the transition to computer-based examinations aligns with global best practices and will help improve the credibility, transparency, and security of the examination process.
According to him, the use of technology is also expected to significantly reduce examination malpractice, limit logistical challenges, and speed up the processing of results.
Dangut therefore urged lawmakers to support the initiative by ensuring adequate funding and oversight to accelerate the development of the infrastructure needed for the successful implementation of the CB-WASSCE nationwide.
