The year is 2025. A young Nigerian student, eager to gain admission into a higher institution, is stuck at a crossroads. The JAMB registration form stares back at them, asking for academic dates and secondary school details that don’t align with the reality of their WAEC results. A single subject stands between them and their alma mater, forcing many West African students to wait another year to improve their grades or alter their academic history.
With WAEC’s introduction of the Private Candidate 1 resit option, there’s a faster way to move forward. Candidates can register to retake just the subjects they need as early as January and February, offering a quicker route to academic recovery.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the WAEC PC 1 resit and the steps to register before January 20, 2025.
Why resit for WAEC?
In West Africa, particularly in Nigeria, passing WAEC with the right grades in key subjects is often a prerequisite for university or college admission. Different institutions have specific requirements for subjects and grades, meaning a student aiming for an engineering course, for instance, must secure credits in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.
When a candidate falls short, it can feel like a major setback. But with the CBT-based WAEC PC 1 resit option, that’s no longer the case.
Instead of losing an entire academic year, students now have the opportunity to retake only the subjects they need to improve. This gives them a chance to meet the necessary requirements and move forward with their education. With exams scheduled from January 24 to February 15, 2025, the timing couldn’t be better for those looking to catch up.
WAEC’s Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, points out that the exams will be held in regional capitals to accommodate the limited number of candidates. So, why not now?
Who is eligible to sit for WASSCE PC1?
This opportunity is open to students wishing to improve their grades in one or two subjects. Candidates whose results were cancelled but are not barred for malpractice are also eligible to participate.
What subjects can I resit for?
If you’re considering resitting for your WAEC, you can retake subjects from your original examination including Mathematics, Commerce, English Language and Chemistry. To access the full list of available subjects, visit the WAEC registration portal here.
Key dates to remember
- Registration Deadline: Monday, January 20, 2025
- Examination Period: January 24 – February 15, 2025
What requirements do I need for registration?
To register for the WAEC PC1 resit, candidates must ensure they have the following documents ready:
- A valid passport photograph
- Birth certificate or age declaration
- Previous examination details (if applicable)
It’s highly important to double-check your details during registration to avoid errors.
How much is registration?
The registration fee for the WAEC for Private Candidates, 2025-First Series is ₦27,000. Candidates can purchase registration pins at any WAEC office, bank, accredited registration centre, or authorised agent.
Step-by-step process to register for WAEC PC1 in 2025
Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the WASSCE PC1. Then proceed to:
1. Visit WAEC’s official website
Go to the official WAEC registration website: https://registration.waecdirect.org/. Review the registration guidelines carefully.
Note: The final date for generating your registration PIN is Monday, January 20, 2025. Biometrics capturing and online registration must be completed by 11:59 pm on Wednesday, January 20, 2025.
2. Obtain a registration PIN
Purchase a registration PIN from authorised WAEC agents or accredited vendors near you. This PIN will grant you access to the registration platform.
3. Begin registration online
Log into the WAEC portal and fill out the registration form:
- Enter personal details like your name, date of birth, and contact information.
- Select the subjects you wish to resit.
- Upload a passport-sized photograph and other necessary documents.
4. Verify your information
Make sure all information is correct before submitting your registration form to avoid any issues later.
5. Print confirmation slip
Once registration is complete, print your confirmation slip. This slip contains essential exam details and serves as proof of registration.
Next steps
With no timetable released yet, focus on your weak areas as you prepare. Gather study materials like past questions and textbooks, and consider seeking extra help if needed. Plan your study time wisely to make the most of the time before the exam.
FAQs
I can’t remember my exam number
Visit https://request.waec.ng to retrieve your lost exam number or photo card.
When will the exam commence?
The exam starts at the end of January 2025.
Can anyone take the exam, or is it only for the 2024 set?
It’s open to anyone wishing to retake the exam, whether or not you’re still in school.
Is the exam computer-based?
Yes, the objective papers will be fully CBT. Essay and practical exams will be hybrid, where questions are displayed on-screen, and answers are written on answer booklets.
Can I resit for only the subjects I failed?
Yes, you can retake just the subjects you need to improve, not all subjects.
Can I replace a subject I passed in GCE with one I failed in WAEC?
Yes, many institutions accept a mix of WAEC and GCE results, provided the subjects meet the course requirements.
