For millions of students in West Africa, the General Certificate of Education (GCE) is a significant milestone. It marks the final stretch of their secondary school education, and for many, it’s the gateway to higher education or employment opportunities.
The GCE exam, administered by two major bodies — WAEC and NECO — is held annually, with private candidates having the chance to take the exam in both the first and second series. As 2025 rolls in, the clock is ticking for those planning to sit for the exam. If you’re one of those students, here’s everything you need to know about when and how to register for the 2025 GCE.
Understanding the GCE Registration Dates
Knowing the exact start and end dates for GCE registration is crucial. Late registration could cost you more than just time; it could affect your chances of writing the exam altogether.
WAEC GCE (Second Series)
Registration for the WAEC GCE (WASSCE for Private Candidates) began on June 9, 2025, and this phase will close in two stages. First, the PIN Generation deadline is on August 22, 2025, followed closely by the biometric registration and online registration deadline on August 24, 2025. These dates are important because they mark the final chances to get your registration sorted before the exam. Students must complete their biometric registration and online submissions before these deadlines. Afterward, you won’t be able to secure a spot for the exam unless you’re a “Walk-in Candidate,” which comes with an extra fee.
NECO GCE
For the NECO GCE, the registration started later on July 7, 2025, and will close on November 18, 2025, giving candidates several months to get their registration done. The exam period for NECO GCE is set for November 26 to December 13, 2025. Unlike the WAEC GCE, NECO GCE candidates have more time to prepare, but it also means there’s more room for procrastination. It’s essential to register on time to avoid last-minute rushes or complications with scheduling.
Key Dates at a Glance
To make it easier for you, here’s a summary of the key dates for both exams:
| Examination | Registration Period | Registration Deadline | Exam Dates | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WAEC GCE | June 9 – August 24, 2025 | August 24, 2025 | October/November 2025 | N27,000 |
| NECO GCE | July 7 – November 18, 2025 | November 18, 2025 | November 26 – December 13, 2025 | N20,000 |
Both WAEC and NECO GCE exams are high-stakes, and these deadlines reflect the urgency of preparing for them.
How to Register for WAEC GCE 2025
The registration process for WAEC GCE involves several steps. First, students must purchase a PIN (Personal Identification Number) from accredited banks or agents. Once the PIN is acquired, candidates must log into the official WAEC GCE portal to complete their registration. This includes uploading a passport photo and completing biometric data capture.
Candidates will need to ensure they have all the correct documentation, including their personal information, subjects of choice, and photographs. A registration fee of N27,000 is required for the exam, and it must be paid to the accredited agents before registration can be finalized.
If you miss the deadline, you can still register as a Walk-in Candidate, but this comes at a higher fee of N45,000. Walk-in registration is available, but it’s important to understand that this option is not always available in all centers and comes with strict deadlines.
What Makes WAEC GCE Different?
One significant change to note is the introduction of the Computer-Based Testing (CBT) system for the WAEC GCE exams. This means that objective papers will be conducted digitally, while theoretical and practical papers will have a hybrid format: on-screen questions with written responses.
To prepare, candidates can use the Myschool WAEC CBT app to practice exam questions in the CBT format. This is crucial for adapting to the digital format, especially since this is the first time WAEC is using CBT for all objective questions.
How to Register for NECO GCE 2025
NECO GCE registration follows a different process but is similarly straightforward. The first step is also purchasing a PIN from one of the accredited banks or agents. After obtaining the PIN, candidates must visit the official NECO website to complete their registration and select their subjects.
The NECO GCE exam fee is N20,000, and just like WAEC, this must be paid upfront before registration is finalized. It’s important to double-check all your details during registration, as mistakes could lead to disqualification or delays.
Tips for Successful Registration
Don’t Wait for the Last Minute
One of the most important things to keep in mind is timeliness. The longer you wait to register, the more likely you are to run into complications. It’s advisable to complete the registration as early as possible to avoid the stress of last-minute rushes.
Be Aware of Extra Fees
Late registration comes at a higher cost. While Walk-in Candidates can still register after the deadline, they will have to pay a significantly higher fee. It’s always better to stick to the official registration windows.
Double-Check Your Information
Always review your personal details before submitting. A small mistake could cause a delay or issue during the examination period. Make sure your passport photo meets the required specifications, your subjects are accurate, and that there are no typographical errors.
The Role of Technology in GCE 2025
This year’s exams will see a notable increase in the role of technology, particularly with the Computer-Based Testing (CBT) that WAEC has introduced for the first time for objective questions. This development will likely improve the speed and accuracy of the results, but it also means candidates must prepare using digital tools.
Many students might be unfamiliar with this format, which is why it’s crucial to use tools like the Myschool WAEC CBT software to practice and familiarize yourself with the online environment. NECO, however, will maintain a more traditional approach, though technology will still play a role in result processing and registration.
Why Registration is Just the Beginning
Successfully registering for the GCE exam is only the first step. From here, preparation becomes the key focus. The 2025 GCE exams, whether WAEC or NECO, offer candidates a valuable opportunity to further their education and career prospects. By registering early and preparing properly, you’ll be putting yourself in the best possible position to succeed.
Don’t let the deadlines sneak up on you — plan your registration early, familiarize yourself with the exam formats, and make use of available resources like the CBT practice tools. Remember, the GCE exam is a significant step in your academic journey, and it deserves the attention and preparation it requires.
For more information on GCE registration and updates, visit the official WAEC or NECO websites.
