Over 619,000 Candidates to Sit 2026 BECE from May 4 — WAEC
The West African Examinations Council has confirmed its readiness to conduct the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), which is scheduled to commence on Monday, May 4, and conclude on Friday, May 11, 2026.
According to the Council, a total of 619,985 candidates from across the country have been registered for the examination. This figure comprises 304,273 males and 315,712 females, indicating a slightly higher participation rate among female candidates.
The BECE represents an important academic milestone for Junior High School (JHS) students, as it determines their progression into secondary education. The examination will be conducted over a one-week period, during which candidates will sit for two papers each day—one in the morning at 9:00 a.m. and another in the afternoon at 1:00 p.m.—across 2,302 centres nationwide.
In terms of subject composition, the examination covers 11 subjects. However, each candidate is expected to write an average of nine subjects, including seven core areas: English Language, Mathematics, Science, a Ghanaian Language, Social Studies, Religious and Moral Education, and Creative Arts and Design, alongside Career Technology.
Speaking in an interview, the Head of Public Affairs at WAEC, John Kapi, disclosed that all examination materials have been adequately prepared and will soon be distributed to metropolitan and district education offices across the country.
On the issue of funding, he explained that it is standard practice for the government to release 70% of the required budget before the examination begins, with the remaining 30% disbursed after the exams to support activities such as marking and post-examination processes.
To ensure the credibility of the examination, WAEC will collaborate with the Ghana Education Service, with additional support from the Ghana Police Service to oversee effective supervision and maintain order at examination centres.
Mr. Kapi cautioned all stakeholders, particularly invigilators and supervisors, to refrain from engaging in or supporting any form of examination malpractice. He emphasised that offenders will face strict sanctions under the applicable legal provisions.
He further noted that examination malpractice undermines the integrity of the education system and makes it difficult to accurately measure the academic performance of candidates.