WAEC Ghana: Everything You Need to Know About BECE and WASSCE

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) sets and marks the two most important exams in a Ghanaian student's pre-tertiary journey: BECE and WASSCE. Understanding what WAEC is, how these exams work, and how to prepare for them helps students and parents across Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Cape Coast, and every region of Ghana make informed decisions and target their preparation effectively.

What is WAEC?

WAEC is the West African Examinations Council. It is an international examination body that operates in several West African countries, including Ghana. In Ghana, WAEC is responsible for conducting BECE (Basic Education Certificate Examination) and WASSCE (West African Senior School Certificate Examination). WAEC publishes syllabuses, sets exam questions, coordinates marking, and issues certificates. Schools and the Ghana Education Service work with WAEC to ensure exams are administered fairly and consistently.

BECE: The Gateway to Senior High School

BECE is taken at the end of Junior High School (JHS 3). It covers core subjects (English, Mathematics, Integrated Science, Social Studies) and electives. Results are used for placement into Senior High School through the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS). Your BECE aggregate (sum of best six subject grades) determines which schools you can attend. Families in East Legon, Kumasi, Takoradi, Tamale, and across Ghana all work toward strong BECE results for this reason. For a full preparation guide, see our BECE preparation in Ghana.

WASSCE: The Gateway to Tertiary Education

WASSCE is taken at the end of Senior High School (SHS 3). It covers core and elective subjects. Results are used for university and college admission, scholarships, and employment. Grades range from A1 to F9. Universities and colleges typically require credit passes in specified subjects. For a full preparation guide, see our WASSCE preparation in Ghana.

How BECE is Graded

BECE uses a numeric scale from 1 (highest) to 9 (lowest). Your grade in each subject is a combination of the written exam (typically 70%) and school-based continuous assessment (typically 30%). The aggregate score is the sum of your best six subject grades. So the best possible aggregate is 6. The lower your aggregate, the more SHS options you have. For more on how continuous assessment fits in, read continuous assessment in Ghana.

How WASSCE is Graded

WASSCE uses letter grades: A1, B2, B3, C4, C5, C6, D7, E8, F9. A1 is the highest, F9 is a fail. Credit passes (usually A1 to C6) are required for most tertiary programmes. Specific programmes may require certain subjects or minimum grades. Students and parents should check admission requirements for target institutions early.

Syllabus and Exam Structure

WAEC publishes official syllabuses for every subject. These syllabuses define the topics, learning outcomes, and scope of what can be tested. Every BECE and WASSCE question is drawn from the syllabus. So the first step in serious preparation is to get the syllabus for each subject and use it as your roadmap. Do not assume textbooks cover everything. Cross-check topics. Students in Accra, Kumasi, Cape Coast, and across Ghana who syllabus-check avoid unpleasant surprises in the exam hall.

Registration and Administration

BECE and WASSCE registration is typically done through schools. Schools coordinate with WAEC and the Ghana Education Service on timetables, centres, and submission of candidate details. Parents and students should ensure registration is completed on time and that candidate information is correct. Any questions about registration should go through the school or the relevant WAEC office.

Preparing for WAEC Exams

Preparation should be syllabus-led and include past questions, targeted revision of weak topics, and practice under exam conditions. Continuous assessment throughout the year also contributes to final grades, so performance in class tests and assignments matters. Tools that help students identify weak areas (such as Olearna's scoring engine) make revision more targeted. Whether you are in Obuasi, Sunyani, Koforidua, Ho, or Bolgatanga, the same principles apply: know the syllabus, diagnose your gaps, and focus your effort where it will make the biggest difference.

Common Misconceptions About WAEC

Some people think WAEC exams are unpredictable. In fact, they are syllabus-based and past questions show clear patterns. Some think only the final exam matters; in reality, continuous assessment contributes to the final grade. Some think more study hours always mean better results; in reality, targeted study on weak areas and practice under exam conditions often matter more. Understanding how WAEC works helps you prepare effectively and set realistic expectations.

Where to Get More Information

For official information on WAEC, syllabuses, and exam administration, contact your school or the WAEC office in Ghana. For preparation strategies, study timetables, and parent guides, use our resource hub. For a clear picture of where your child stands before BECE or WASSCE, many families in Ghana use Olearna to get a weekly readiness signal and targeted practice recommendations.