At the moment, students are asking “when is the GCE exam starting in 2025?” It will be starting on Friday, October 24, 2025, and ending on Thursday, December 18, 2025.This provides candidates with nearly two months to write exams. The plan will be created in such a way as to disperse subjects so that the student will have time between papers. The GCE, unlike the school-based WAEC, enables a candidate to undertake subjects that he needs only, thus giving a reason as to why the schedule can be different for every individual applicant.
What Is the WAEC GCE?
The educational body popularly called WAEC is also responsible for WAEC GCE which takes place every year too. The peculiar thing about GCE is that external candidates can take it. Essentially, this means that you may register for the test without being a registered student.
Each year there are two series:
First Series: April/May
Second Series: October/December
This article concentrates on the second series, which is the most popular one.
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Exam Format
All subjects will typically require three papers:
1. Objective (Paper 1) – Multiple-choice
2. Essay (Paper 2) – Theory-based questions
3. Practical or Test of Practical (Paper 3)—For science subjects
Specific subjects such as English and literature do contain oral or listening tests.
Who Can Write the GCE?
The GCE will be open to:
– School leavers
– Employees in need of improved credentials
– Students that failed or wish to better previous WAEC performance
– Students planning to join university
You are not required to be attending school at the time of registration.
How to Prepare for the Exam
It is all about preparation. These are some tested techniques:
– Obtain the WAEC syllabus: A lot of students do not use it. Avoid that error.
– Practice old questions: particularly papers of the last decade.
– Study with a group: even an online one.
– Study plan: Adhere to the day-to-day objectives.
– Training in simulations, aka exam conditions: time yourself.
It is also possible to practice CBT (Computer-Based Test) in some subjects, such as ICT, or to use mobile applications prepared to pass WAEC.
Little-Known Facts About the GCE
These are the sort of things you won’t be able to find anywhere:
1. You may not write in only one center: Some candidates enroll more than once in different states. While not advised, this does happen.
2. Scripts are scanned and identified electronically: this eliminates bias, but it also makes handwriting important.
3. Other subjects are marked by retired teachers: the markers are tough but experienced.
4. You can do international admissions based on your performance: in the UK and Ghana, particularly.
5. It could take 45 days to have your result out:With no malpractice issue.
6. GCE results are permanent, as opposed to certain entrance exams, which have an expiry date.
7. You can re-register next year without any penalty:Even in case of failure.
What to Do Before the Exam Starts
To be on the safe side, make sure you do the following before the exam starts:
– Print your photo card with the timetable.
– Become familiar with where your examination center is, and visit it once.
– Make sure that you confirm the subjects you enroll in.
– Get into some real past papers practice
– Sleep well enough—even your mental health counts.
– Purchase additional pens, pencils, erasers, and calculators.
And above all, remain composed. You have the advantage of getting prepared in advance.
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Conclusion
When will the GCE exam start in 2025? Note the following date in your calendar: October 24, 2025. Not only has this article given you a date, it has given you a firm plan, a schedule, and some of the inside knowledge few candidates ever get.
You should also keep in mind that the most important thing between passing and failing a test is preparation. Get started, keep to it, and do not wait until you feel inspired. It does not matter whether you are writing to win an admission, to score better marks, or even to finally pass that difficult subject; the 2025 WAEC GCE second series is your chance.
Good luck.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will I be allowed to change my examination center after I have registered?
No, after you register, there is no changing your exam station. The only choice you will have is to make another application. This means that additional money will need to be spent.
2. Are the GCE exams going to be conducted on weekends like Saturdays and Sundays?
Yes, WAEC GCE may have weekend exams, more so on practicals and languages. Plan accordingly.
3. What is the release date of GCE 2025?
The majority of the time is 45–60 days that follow the last paper.
4. Can I take the GCE exams in other countries apart from Nigeria?
Yes you can. But you can only take them in WAEC approved areas like Ghana, Sierra Leone e.t.c
5. Does it have a dress code?
Nothing in particular, only be decent and no clothes that could conceal materials (e.g., hoodies).
6. Do GCE exams allow the use of calculators?
Yes, non programmable calculators sanctioned by WAEC only.
7. Should I take my birth certificate to the exam?
No. Only your photo card and some form of ID (as in a national ID or even a driver license) in case it is demanded.