The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has officially released the 2026 General Certificate Examination (GCE) 1st Series timetable, bringing relief and clarity to thousands of private candidates preparing for the upcoming examination across Nigeria.
The examination is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, and will conclude on Saturday, 14 February 2026. Candidates who successfully registered for the 2026 WAEC GCE First Series can now view and access the CBT timetable.
This development marks a crucial step for candidates who registered for the WAEC GCE 2026 First Series, as it provides a clear roadmap for revision, planning, and final preparations ahead of the exams.
Overview of WAEC GCE 2026 (1st Series)
The WAEC GCE is a private candidate examination organized in two series each year. The 1st Series is typically written between January and February and is mostly computer-based, except for a few practical and essay papers.
With the release of the official timetable, candidates can now confirm:
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Exam start and end dates
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Subjects and paper sequence
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Practical and oral test schedules
What to Expect in the 2026 GCE Timetable
Although the full subject-by-subject breakdown is contained in the official timetable, here are key highlights candidates should note:
1. Examination Commencement
The WAEC GCE 2026 (1st Series) is expected to begin in January 2026, with objective and essay papers scheduled on different days to ease congestion.
2. Computer-Based Testing (CBT)
Most subjects will be conducted using the CBT format, especially objective tests, while theory papers may be hybrid or paper-based depending on the subject.
3. Practical & Oral Exams
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Science practicals (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
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Oral tests for languages such as English and French
These are usually scheduled before the main written papers.
4. Multiple Subjects per Day
Candidates are advised to check carefully to avoid subject clashes and ensure adequate rest between papers.
Important Instructions for Candidates
WAEC has emphasized that candidates should strictly adhere to examination guidelines. Key reminders include:
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Print and review your personalized timetable regularly
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Arrive at the examination venue at least 30 minutes early
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Avoid examination malpractice, as WAEC enforces strict penalties
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Ensure familiarity with the CBT system before exam day
Why the Timetable Release Matters
The release of the WAEC 2026 GCE 1st Series timetable allows candidates to:
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Plan focused revision using actual exam dates
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Reduce last-minute pressure and confusion
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Balance work, school, or other commitments alongside preparation
For many candidates using the GCE result for 2026/2027 admissions, early preparation can significantly improve performance.
How to Prepare Effectively for WAEC GCE 2026
To maximize success:
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Create a subject-based study timetable aligned with exam dates
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Practice past questions under timed conditions
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Strengthen weak subjects early
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Get familiar with WAEC CBT navigation
The release of the WAEC GCE 2026 (1st Series) timetable is a major milestone for private candidates nationwide. With the exam dates now confirmed, candidates are encouraged to intensify preparation and stay disciplined throughout the examination period.
Early planning, consistency, and adherence to WAEC guidelines will go a long way in ensuring success in the 2026 GCE.
Stay focused, prepare smartly, and approach the exams with confidence.
BELOW IS THE 2026 GCE (1st Series) Timetable:
