By DAYO ADESULU
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has released the WAEC 2026 CB-WASSCE results for private candidates, First Series, revealing a modest improvement in performance and a significant increase in candidate turnout across Nigeria.
The council announced the development on Friday, confirming that thousands of candidates who participated in the computer-based examination can now access their results online.
Strong Turnout as Candidate Numbers Rise
WAEC disclosed that 10,523 candidates registered for the examination, marking an 11.49% increase compared to 2025, when 9,438 candidates enrolled. Out of this number, 10,480 candidates eventually sat for the examination across 166 centres nationwide.
The examination took place between January 28 and February 14, 2026, while marking exercises were conducted from February 26 to March 13 in Lagos, Enugu, and Kaduna. A total of 608 examiners participated in the marking process.
The council noted that the improved turnout reflects growing acceptance of the computer-based format among private candidates.
Over 80% Results Fully Released
In its breakdown of the WAEC 2026 CB-WASSCE results, the examination body revealed that 8,418 candidates, representing 80.32%, have had their results fully processed and released.
However, 2,062 candidates, accounting for 19.68%, still have some subjects pending due to errors traced to their registration or examination details. WAEC assured that efforts are underway to resolve these issues and release all outstanding results promptly.
Performance Shows Noticeable Improvement
A closer look at the WAEC 2026 CB-WASSCE results shows a gradual improvement in candidates’ academic performance.
According to WAEC, 4,598 candidates, representing 43.87%, obtained credit passes and above in at least five subjects, regardless of English Language and Mathematics.
More importantly, 3,429 candidates, representing 32.72%, secured five credits including English Language and Mathematics — the key requirement for admission into higher institutions.
Out of this group, 1,847 candidates (53.86%) were male, while 1,582 (46.14%) were female.
When compared to previous years, performance has improved. In 2024 and 2025, only 30.95% and 26.96% of candidates respectively achieved five credits including English and Mathematics. This indicates a 5.76% increase in 2026.
Special Needs Candidates Not Left Behind
The council also highlighted its inclusive approach, noting that 43 candidates with special needs participated in the examination.
This group included visually impaired candidates, those with hearing impairments, and albino candidates. WAEC confirmed that it made adequate provisions to support them throughout the examination process.
Malpractice: 75 Results Withheld
Despite the overall improvement, WAEC disclosed that 75 candidates, representing 0.72% of total participants, had their results withheld over alleged examination malpractice.
The council stated that investigations are ongoing, and the affected candidates will be notified once decisions are reached by the appropriate committee.
How to Check WAEC 2026 CB-WASSCE Results
Candidates who sat for the examination can check their results via the official WAEC portal. After confirming their performance, they can proceed to access digital copies of their certificates.
WAEC also advised candidates to apply online for the printing of hard copy certificates through its Certificate Request Portal.
WAEC Commends Stakeholders
Reacting to the successful conduct of the examination, WAEC commended various stakeholders, including government agencies, security personnel, supervisors, invigilators, and examiners.
The council noted that the smooth execution of the exercise and the timely release of the WAEC 2026 CB-WASSCE results reflect the collective effort and commitment of all parties involved.
It also congratulated candidates who performed well and encouraged others to remain focused on their academic pursuits.
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