How To Prepare For WAEC And Pass In One Sitting

The West African Examination Council (WAEC) is an examining body operating within the West African community, responsible for administering the West African Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

WAEC is a crucial examination taken by students in their final year of senior secondary school or high school. Each student participating in the WASSCE is expected to approach the examination with diligence, aiming to succeed in a single attempt. Many students face challenges in passing all the subjects they undertake, leading to the necessity of retaking the WASSCE.

In this article, we will provide valuable tips on how to prepare for WAEC and pass it in one sitting. But before delving into that, let’s share how to register for the 2024 WAEC in Nigeria.

How To Register For WAEC 2024 In Nigeria
15 Expert Tips On How To Pass WAEC
Common Mistakes Students Make During WAEC
How Long Does It Take to Prepare for WAEC?
Can You Write 7 Subjects in WAEC?
How Can I Check My WAEC Result?
Can I Check My WAEC Result Without A Scratch Card?
How Does WAEC Questions Look Like?
FAQs On How To Pass WAEC In Nigeria
Conclusion
References
We Also Recommend

How To Register For WAEC 2024 In Nigeria

Here’s a step-by-step outline of how to register for WAEC in Nigeria:

Visit the WAEC website to commence registration. Candidates are to start their registration by enrolling their fingerprints and capturing other personal details using the Biometric Data Capture software. Click here to download if you have a fingerprint scanner, or visit any registration center with such facilities to scan your fingerprints. Ensure your Surname, First name, and other names are captured using the software

Step 2: Provide your bio data

You are required to enter your bio data, which includes gender, disability, marital status, maiden name (if applicable), date of birth, nationality, and state of origin. Note that your name must not be more than 40 characters; this includes spaces between the surname, first name, and other names. Please select NONE for disability information if you are not disabled

Step 3: Upload your picture using webcam

You must capture an image using a webcam that meets specific camera specifications, including a minimum resolution of 2.0 MP, 720p, and USB 2.0 compatibility. The camera should support high-resolution RGB and be certified for Hi-Speed USB 2.0, featuring a 2.0-megapixel sensor with a capability of up to 30 frames per second. We recommend using the Microsoft LifeCam HD 3000 webcam. It’s important to note that the captured image will be printed on both your photo card and certificate.

Step 4: Fill in your contact information

You must fill in your contact information, which includes telephone, email, residential address, residential city, residential state, postal address, city, and state. Note that a telephone number is compulsory since it will be used to contact the candidate should the need arise.

Step 5: Select exam town

You are required to select the state and town in which you wish to write the examination. The exact center will be automatically assigned to you by the system. Please note that you cannot change your examination town after submission

Step 6: Select subjects

Every WAEC candidate must choose English language, mathematics, and other subjects. You are expected to select a minimum of seven (7) and a maximum of nine (9) subjects (English language and mathematics inclusive).

Step 7: Submit registration

After filling out the registration form, it is essential to select the ACCEPT button. Following this action, a preview of your information will appear. Take a moment to review your application at this point, and if any adjustments are necessary, click the EDIT button.

To save your application for future modifications, choose the SAVE button. It’s important to be aware that modifications are limited to three instances. When you are ready to submit your application, click the SUBMIT button. Keep in mind that once you click SUBMIT, you won’t have the option to make further modifications to your application.

Step 8: Printing of Admission notice/ photo card

On successful completion and submission of your registration form, the system will allocate a center to you and generate your examination number. You should then print the admission notice/photo card. Note that this document will be required before you are allowed into the examination hall.

Registration for the 2024 WAEC ends on Monday, January 22, 2024.

15 Expert Tips On How To Pass WAEC

Here are 15 tips on how to prepare for WAEC in one month as a Nigerian student:

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Syllabus

The WAEC syllabus functions as a guide, offering a clear overview of the subjects and subtopics potentially included in the exam. By examining the syllabus, you acquire valuable insights into the exam’s scope, allowing you to direct your efforts appropriately. Initially, the syllabus assists in pinpointing subjects and specific areas requiring attention.

Moreover, the syllabus serves as a benchmark for the depth of knowledge needed. It provides an understanding of the level of detail and the types of questions likely to be expected in the WAEC exam. This knowledge enables you to get the right study materials and resources, which will ensure thorough preparation for the specific demands of the exam.

2. Create a Study Schedule

A well-designed study schedule provides structure and organization and helps optimize study time. Firstly, a study schedule ensures that you allocate sufficient time to cover all the subjects and topics that will be tested in the WAEC exam.

By dividing your available study time among different subjects, you can ensure a balanced approach and avoid neglecting any particular subject. Moreover, a study schedule helps you set specific goals and objectives for each study session.

After creating a study schedule, you need to create a consistent study routine throughout the month, which enables you to develop a study habit and ensures that you make steady progress toward your goal. By adhering to a well-structured study schedule, you can optimize your chances of success in the limited one-month timeframe.

3. Get Your Study Materials

Efficient organization is key to maximizing productivity and effectiveness during study sessions by providing easy access to WAEC study materials. Using study materials like the popular “key points” that were in vogue during my time helps students identify study gaps or deficiencies.

Gather all required textbooks, notes, past question papers, and relevant materials for each subject. Sorting materials by subject or topic and arranging them logically ensures quick access to relevant resources during focused study or revision.

This method saves valuable time and minimizes distractions during study sessions. Lastly, the organized arrangement of study materials supports the creation of effective study aids and summaries. This includes developing concise notes, flashcards, or mind maps based on the structured materials.

4. Set Specific Goals

Clear and specific goals provide direction and focus, guiding your study efforts effectively. It helps you to prioritize your study sessions. Identify the subjects and topics that require more attention and allocate dedicated time to mastering those areas.

By setting specific goals for each study session, you can ensure that you cover the necessary content and make steady progress toward your overall preparation. Setting specific goals and working towards them increases your chances of success within the one-month timeframe.

5. Prioritize Weak Areas

By identifying and focusing on your weak areas, you can allocate more time and effort to improving your understanding and performance in those subjects or topics.

Prioritizing weak areas allows students to focus on the aspects of their studies that need the most improvement. Identifying these weaker subjects or topics provides a roadmap for targeted learning, enabling students to address specific challenges and enhance their understanding.

6. Practice Past Questions

Studying WAEC past questions provides valuable insights into the exam format, familiarizes you with the types of questions asked, and helps you refine your exam-taking skills.

By solving past papers, you gain a clear understanding of the types of questions to expect, the marks allotted per question, and the time allocation for each section. This knowledge enables you to develop a strategic approach to the exam and enhances your time management skills.

CLICK HERE TO GET OUR UPDATED WAEC PAST QUESTIONS FOR FREE

7. Seek Clarification

Actively seeking clarification helps you address doubts, misconceptions, or areas of confusion, ensuring a thorough understanding of the subject matter. If you encounter unclear concepts or topics, do not hesitate to seek assistance from your teachers, classmates, or subject experts. Seeking clarification not only facilitates a deeper understanding but also dispels any misunderstandings, thereby fortifying your knowledge foundation.

8. Form Study Groups

Study groups provide a collaborative learning environment that promotes effective study and mutual support. Forming study groups allows WAEC students to pool their collective knowledge and insights. Each member may have a unique understanding of certain topics, providing a diverse range of perspectives. This collaborative approach broadens the scope of learning, filling gaps in individual knowledge and offering a more comprehensive understanding of the syllabus.

9. Use Online Resources

Online resources provide access to a wide range of study materials, practice tests, and interactive tools that can enhance preparation and support effective learning.

MystudentKit provides access to textbooks, study guides, and lecture notes, covering a variety of subjects and topics through our mock tests. These resources can supplement your existing study materials and provide additional explanations, examples, and illustrations.

Practicing with these resources allows you to familiarize yourself with the exam format, identify areas for improvement, and assess your readiness for the actual exam.

10. Take Breaks and Rest

Though it might appear counterintuitive, integrating regular breaks and adequate rest into your study plan can improve both your overall productivity and well-being. Initially, incorporating breaks facilitates the rejuvenation and recharging of your mind. Prolonged periods of intense study can result in mental fatigue, diminishing your ability to focus and retain information.

Short breaks offer a chance for your brain to rest, process acquired information, and sustain optimal cognitive function. These planned breaks supply a much-needed opportunity to unwind, partake in enjoyable activities, and recharge both physically and mentally. By infusing regular breaks into your study routine and prioritizing restful sleep, you can safeguard your mental well-being, prevent burnout, and optimize your overall productivity within the one-month timeframe.

11. Practice Time Management

Effectively managing your time enables you to distribute ample focus and attention across various subjects, complete your study assignments, and establish a well-rounded and fruitful study routine.

To begin with, formulate a study timetable and prioritize your tasks. Identify subjects and topics demanding greater attention, and assign dedicated study sessions to each. Divide subjects or topics into smaller subtopics and designate specific time slots for each. This strategy helps prevent feelings of being overwhelmed and facilitates consistent progress in comprehending the material.

12. Stay Positive and Confident

Staying positive and confident during exams is crucial for performing at your best. WAEC candidates must approach the exam with enthusiasm and motivation.

13. Late Exam Preparation

Late exam preparations are one of the common reasons why students fail the WAEC. Studying late for your exam means waiting a few weeks before starting or taking your preparations seriously.

The best time to start preparing for your WAEC exam is at least 6 months before the exam date and not a few days before your exam.

14. Take Some Rest

Rest is an essential element of the learning process. Sufficient rest would help you avoid burnout and fatigue after long hours of studying.

15. Join WAEC Groups And Discussion Forum

An online WAEC group and an online discussion forum like Mystudentkit Forum offer you an opportunity to learn and share opinions with like-minded students before the exam day.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN OUR WHATSAPP GROUP

Common Mistakes Students Make During WAEC

Students often make various mistakes during the West African Examinations Council’s (WAEC) exams. Here are some common mistakes to be aware of and avoid:

1. Procrastination

Most students delay study sessions until the last minute. This results in poor preparation and eventual failure of the exam. Plan a study schedule well in advance and stick to it consistently.

2. Incomplete Syllabus Coverage

Preparing for WAEC without the WAEC syllabus is a common mistake senior secondary students make. Your WAEC syllabus contains the topics, format, and question types to expect in the exam. Therefore, studying the syllabus is necessary for your exam preparation. It will serve as a guide for you to know the topics to read. There are also notes on concepts you should pay attention to learning.

Ensure comprehensive coverage of all topics outlined in the syllabus.

3. Lack of Time Management

Poor examination time management is a common mistake WAEC students make in the exam hall. With poor time management, you won’t likely finish your examinations. To tackle a lack of time management, you must practice time-bound exams, prioritize questions, and allocate time wisely.

4. Ignoring Past Questions

Neglecting to practice with past question papers is the wrong way to go. Don’t do it! Regular practice with WAEC past questions helps you familiarize yourself with the exam format and questions to expect. This increases your chances of passing your waec exam in one sitting.

PREPARE FOR 2024 WAEC WITH MYSTUDENTKIT WAEC STUDY GUIDE

5. Overlooking Instructions

Failing to read and follow exam instructions carefully is one mistake WAEC candidates make during the exam. Before you open your answer booklet, take your time to read the instructions thoroughly before answering questions.

6. Neglecting Revision

Skipping revision before the exam is a common mistake WAEC candidates make. Revision is a fundamental aspect of effective learning and exam preparation. It not only reinforces knowledge but also helps students identify and address areas that may need additional attention, ultimately contributing to better academic performance.

7. Excessive Cramming

Relying solely on cramming information is one mistake every exam taker should avoid. Always aim for a deep understanding of concepts rather than rote memorization.

8. Not Taking WAEC Mock Tests

WAEC mock tests provide candidates with an opportunity to become familiar with the format and structure of the actual exam. This includes understanding the types of questions, time constraints, and overall examination conditions.

Mock tests help reduce exam anxiety by giving candidates a simulated experience of the real exam. Familiarity with the exam environment and procedures can boost confidence and reduce stress on the actual exam day.

How Long Does It Take to Prepare for WAEC?

It is advisable to start studying for WAEC at least six months ahead of the exam. Develop a study plan, allot sufficient time for each subject, and maintain a routine for reviewing and practicing.

Modify the timing according to your learning pace and existing knowledge. Maintain organization and concentration throughout your preparation to attain favorable results.

Can You Write 7 Subjects in WAEC?

Yes, in WAEC, students usually take at least seven subjects. These can include core subjects like English and mathematics, along with a choice of three sciences or social sciences (e.g., biology, chemistry, physics, geography, economics, and government).

However, the exact subjects may vary, so it’s important to confirm with your school or institution the specific subject requirements for your WAEC exam.

How Can I Check My WAEC Result?

You can check your WAEC result directly through the exam’s official website or by sending a message to a number via SMS. Here’s how to do any of the two:

How to check WAEC results with SMS

Using your mobile device, Type WAEC*ExamNo*PIN*ExamYear
Send to 32327
You will receive a message instantly containing your WAEC statement of result.

Please note that only MTN, Glo, and Airtel subscribers can check their WAEC results using this SMS method.

Note: If you did not receive your WAEC result via SMS, kindly repeat this step.

SMS charges will be applied when checking your WASSCE result using text messages.

How to check via the Website

To check your WAEC Result, visit www.waecdirect.org and log in. Please note: You may need a WAEC scratch card to check. Follow the procedures below to check your WAEC result for 2024.

Login to the WAEC Result Checker website at www.waecdirect.org.
 Enter your Examination Number
 Select Examination Type, e.g May/June
 Select the exam year, e.g 2023
Click on Check Results.

Can I Check My WAEC Result Without A Scratch Card?

Candidates need a scratch card to check their WAEC results. The scratch card has a special code that allows you to view your results online.

It’s a necessary step to ensure the security and privacy of your results. Without a valid scratch card, you won’t be able to check your WAEC result. You can get a scratch card from authorized WAEC outlets or your school.

How Does WAEC Questions Look Like?

WAEC examination questions usually have two parts. The theory part and the objective part. Please read carefully as I explain the two parts below.

The theory part: Here, you will be asked to answer questions without any given option. You are expected to give full detail on the questions you will be asked, in this part.

The objective part: Unlike the theory part, the objective part comprises questions about which options will be given for you to choose from (they are usually the first part of your question paper).

FAQs On How To Pass WAEC In Nigeria

When should I start preparing for WAEC?

It is recommended to start preparing for WAEC at least six months before the exam to allow for thorough coverage of the syllabus.

How can I create an effective study schedule?

Create a study schedule that allocates sufficient time for each subject daily. Be consistent, and prioritize subjects based on your strengths and weaknesses.

Is WAEC difficult to pass?

The difficulty level of passing the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) can vary from student to student, and it often depends on individual factors such as study habits, preparation, and understanding of the subjects. WAEC is a comprehensive examination that assesses students on a wide range of subjects, including core subjects like mathematics, English, and the sciences, as well as elective subjects.

Are 7 subjects allowed in WAEC?

WAEC candidates are expected to register for a minimum of Seven (7) and a maximum of nine (9) subjects.

What is the pass rate for WAEC?

According to data from Channels, candidates numbering 1,287,920, representing 79.81 percent of the total candidates, obtained credits or above in a minimum of five subjects, including English language and mathematics.

Can I enter university without WAEC?

You can’t enter the university without having good grades in key subjects in WAEC. You need to pass your WASSCE and JAMB before you can be considered for university education.

What happens if you fail the WAEC exam?

If you failed WAEC, you need to retake it if you want to further your education at the university level.

Can Someone in SS2 Write WAEC in Nigeria?

No, students in SS2 (Senior Secondary School 2) cannot take the WAEC exam in Nigeria. The WAEC is for students in SS3 (Senior Secondary School 3) who have completed their secondary education.

Conclusion

These tips are needed to help you effectively prepare for WAEC/WASSCE. Now, begin to apply these tips, and you will be well on your way to being adequately prepared for your WAEC exams.

References

ulesson.com – Important Things to Know About WAEC/WASSCE 2023
bscholarly.com – How To Pass WAEC 2024/2025 Examination: 16 Preparation Tips
nairametrics.com – Steps on how to check 2023 WAEC results via SMS and online portal

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