Good news to everyone who wants to write the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) as a private candidate this year! The 2025 Second Series of the WASSCE for Private Candidates has officially begun. This means that if you missed out during the school exams, or if you want to improve your grades in some subjects, this is your chance!

Registration started on Monday, June 9, 2025, and the exam will take place later this year. But don’t wait too long, there are important deadlines you must follow. Keep reading so you don’t miss out.

What Is WASSCE for Private Candidates?

WASSCE stands for West African Senior School Certificate Examination. It is organized by WAEC (West African Examinations Council). The private candidates version is also called GCE (General Certificate Examination), and it’s made for:

• People who are not in school anymore
• People who want to rewrite their WASSCE to improve their grades
• People who want to sit for the exam from home or tutorial centers

Unlike the school exam, where your school registers you, in the private exam, you will register by yourself.

When Is the Registration Closing?

Here are the important dates you should never forget:

• Start Date of Registration: Monday, June 9, 2025
• Last Date to Generate PIN: Friday, August 22, 2025
• Final Deadline for Registration & Biometrics: Sunday, August 24, 2025 at exactly 11:59 PM

This means that you have just a few weeks to complete everything. After these dates, you won’t be able to register again.

What Do You Need to Register?

Here is a simple list of what you will need:

1. Valid Email Address & Phone Number: This is where you’ll get your details and notifications.

2. Personal Details: Your full name, date of birth, gender, state of origin, etc

3. Passport Photograph: A clear, recent passport photo with a red background.

4. Biometric Data: You will go to a registration center where they will capture your fingerprints.

5. Registration PIN: You must first buy a PIN from WAEC-approved banks or vendors.

6. Subject Selection: You can choose a minimum of 7 and a maximum of 9 subjects, including English Language and Mathematics.

Where Can You Register?

Registration must be done online, but you can visit approved cyber cafes or WAEC registration centers where trained staff can help you. These centers also have the biometric machine that you need for your fingerprint.

To register, go to the WAEC registration portal:

🔗 https://registration.waecdirect.org

Make sure the center you are using is approved by WAEC to avoid problems later.

How Much Does It Cost?

The official fee for the 2025 WASSCE for Private Candidates – Second Series is set by WAEC. However, there may be small extra fees for registration and biometric capture at the centers.

As of now, the expected cost includes:

• Registration PIN Fee: N18,000 – N20,000 (depending on center and state)
• Biometric & Service Fee: N2,000 – N3,000 (varies)
• It’s a good idea to go with around N21,000 to N23,000 total, just to be safe.

Why Should You Register Early?

Registering early gives you many benefits:

1. You can pick a good exam town or center
2. You will have enough time to prepare
3. You avoid last-minute rush
4. You won’t risk missing the deadline

Also, WAEC does not accept late registration once the portal closes. So don’t delay!

How to Register Step by Step

Here is a simple guide to help you register easily:

1. Buy Your Registration PIN from WAEC offices, banks, or vendors.

2. Go to the WAEC GCE Registration Portal:

👉 https://registration.waecdirect.org

3. Create an Account with your valid email and phone number.

4. Enter Your Details (name, gender, date of birth, address, etc.)

5. Upload Your Passport Photo

6. Select Your Subjects (7–9 subjects, including English and Mathematics)

7. Go for Biometrics Capture (fingerprints, etc.)

8. Review and Submit

9. Print Your Photo Card and Receipt

Keep your photo card safe, it contains your exam number, center, and subject details.

What Subjects Can You Choose?

WAEC offers many subjects. You will choose based on what you want to study in the future or your strengths. Some subjects include:

1. English Language (compulsory)
2. Mathematics (compulsory)
3. Biology
4. Chemistry
5. Physics
6. Literature in English
7. Government
8. Commerce
9. Economics
10. CRS/IRS
11. Agricultural Science
12. Civic Education
13. Geography
14. Yoruba/Igbo/Hausa
15. Further Mathematics

Choose wisely!

What Happens After Registration?

Once you register:

1. Start studying seriously. Make a timetable.

2. Get past questions and practice every day.

3. Wait for your examination timetable, which WAEC will release later.

4. Keep your photo card and receipt safe – you will need them to enter the exam hall.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I register after August 24, 2025?

A: No. Once the registration deadline passes, WAEC will close the portal.

Q2: Can I change my subject or exam center after registration?

A: No. Once you submit your form, you cannot change subjects or centers, so choose carefully.

Q3: Do I need to wear a school uniform for the exam?

A: No. Private candidates do not wear uniforms, but dress decently and properly.

Q4: Is there an exam center in every town?

A: Not every town, but there are many centers across the country. Pick one close to you when registering.

Q5: Is WAEC GCE the same as school WASSCE?

A: Yes, it’s the same certificate. Both are accepted for admission and job applications.

Tips for a Successful Exam

1. Prepare Early – Don’t wait until a few weeks before the exam.

2. Get Study Materials – Use textbooks, past questions, and YouTube tutorials.

3. Ask for Help – If you don’t understand something, ask a teacher or friend.

4. Take Mock Tests – Try solving past papers in exam conditions.

5. Rest Before Exams – Sleep well and eat right before your papers.

6. Be on Time – Always arrive at the exam center early.

7. Stay Calm – Don’t panic. Read questions carefully and answer what you know first.

Words of Encouragement

1. To every candidate preparing to take the WASSCE GCE 2025 Second Series, know this:
2. You are capable of success. Whether this is your first time or a second chance, believe in yourself. Many people use this exam to get into university, polytechnic, or even job opportunities. Your result can open doors for your future. So study hard and give it your best shot.

Summary of Key Points

✅ Registration has started: June 9, 2025

✅ PIN purchase ends: August 22, 2025

✅ Final registration deadline: August 24, 2025 (by 11:59pm)

✅ Register online at: https://registration.waecdirect.org

✅ You need your passport photo, personal details, biometric data, and registration PIN

✅ Choose 7–9 subjects, including English and Mathematics

✅ Pay around N21,000 to N23,000 total

✅ No late registration allowed

If you need help or want someone to guide you through the process, visit an approved registration center near you or ask someone who has done it before.

Let this be the start of something great in your life. Register today, prepare hard, and succeed tomorrow!