How Much Is WAEC Form 2026? (Latest Update)

How Much Is WAEC Form 2026? The WAEC form for 2026 is expected to cost between ₦18,000 and ₦20,000 for school candidates, and ₦20,000 to ₦25,000 for private (GCE) candidates. The exact price will be confirmed by WAEC, but these are the projected fees based on past years. Candidates may also pay extra for biometric capturing and late registration.

Last updated: September 14, 2025, official WAEC 2026 price will be updated once WAEC makes it public.

Contents Outline

WAEC Form 2026 Price Table

Candidate Category	Expected Price (₦)	What It Covers	Possible Extra Charges
School Candidates	₦18,000 – ₦20,000	Registration PIN, exam entry, admin	School admin charges (₦500–₦1,000)
Private Candidates (GCE)	₦20,000 – ₦25,000	Registration PIN, exam entry	Biometric fee (₦1,000–₦2,000)
Late Registration	Extra fee (varies)	Same as above	Late penalty fee (₦5,000 or more)

Why WAEC Price Changes Every Year

Parents and candidates often ask why the WAEC form price goes up almost every year. The reasons include:

Printing and logistics costs – WAEC spends heavily on exam papers, transportation, and secure delivery.
Technology upgrades – biometric systems and online registration require funds.
Inflation in Nigeria – prices of almost everything increase yearly.
Security expenses – WAEC invests in preventing exam malpractice.

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Price Difference: School Candidates vs Private Candidates

School Candidates (Internal WAEC) – usually cheaper because schools handle bulk registration. Some schools, however, may add a little admin fee.
Private Candidates (GCE) – slightly more expensive since individuals register directly and pay for biometric capturing themselves.

Other Costs Students and Parents Should Expect

Passport photographs – ₦500 – ₦1,000 depending on location.
Biometric capturing – ₦1,000 – ₦2,000 (for GCE mostly).
Internet café or registration centre fees – ₦1,000 – ₦1,500 for filling forms and printing slips.
Transport to WAEC offices or banks – varies by location.

When planning, add at least ₦3,000 – ₦5,000 to the official fee for these extras.

WAEC Form 2026: Deadline and Late Fees

School Candidates – Registration expected to close January–March 2026.
Private Candidates (GCE 1st Series) – Likely closes February 2026.
Private Candidates (GCE 2nd Series) – Likely closes September 2026.
Late registration – Attracts an extra ₦5,000 or more.

Tip: Always pay early to avoid late penalties.

Where to Buy the WAEC Form in 2026

Accredited banks (First Bank, UBA, Access, Zenith, etc.)
WAEC State and Zonal offices across Nigeria
WAEC Online Portal (for private candidates)
Approved cybercafés and registration centres

Avoid fake sellers or roadside agents — only use official WAEC outlets.

Why Early Payment Matters for WAEC 2026

Waiting until the deadline before paying for WAEC is one of the most common mistakes candidates make. The consequences include:

Network issues – portals and banks get crowded towards the deadline.
Errors under pressure – rushing can lead to wrong subject selection or incorrect details.
Late fees – you may pay extra for something you could have avoided.
Risk of missing out – in rare cases, candidates are left out when schools submit final lists.

Early payment allows enough time to fix mistakes, confirm details, and plan for the exams with peace of mind.

How Parents Can Budget for WAEC Fees

For many families, WAEC registration happens at the same time as other school expenses like tuition, uniforms, and textbooks. This makes it necessary for parents to plan ahead. Practical tips include:

Start saving early – even ₦2,000 per month from now until January 2026 will cover the fee.
Avoid last-minute borrowing – preparation reduces financial stress.
Add a margin for extras – keep at least ₦5,000 extra for biometric, passport, or transport costs.
Pay through official channels – this prevents losing money to fake agents.

By budgeting smartly, families can ensure their children register smoothly without financial strain.

Comparing WAEC Fees With Other Exams

To understand the value of WAEC registration, it helps to compare it with similar exams:

NECO – registration fees are usually in the same range (₦17,000–₦20,000).
JAMB – currently around ₦6,000, but it is only a qualifying exam for higher education.
International exams (SAT, IELTS, TOEFL) – can cost ₦80,000–₦150,000.

From this comparison, WAEC remains one of the most affordable pathways to higher education. This shows that the fee is not just a cost but an investment in the student’s future.

How to Avoid Fraud When Paying for WAEC Form

Every WAEC season, fake agents appear, claiming to sell “cheap forms” or offering shortcuts to registration. Many students and parents have lost money this way. Protect yourself with these tips:

Only use official outlets – accredited banks, WAEC offices, or the WAEC online portal.
Cross-check fees – if someone offers the form at a price far below the official WAEC rate, it is likely a scam.
Collect receipts and PINs immediately – proof of payment is your security.
Never share personal details carelessly – keep your NIN, PIN, and confirmation slip private.
Verify with your school or WAEC office – when in doubt, ask questions before paying.

If you follow these safety steps carefully, you will not only save money but also guarantee that your registration is valid and recognized by WAEC. Remember, if you lose money to fraud, it may be impossible to retrieve it — prevention is better than cure.

Frequently Asked Questions (WAEC Form Price 2026)

Q: How much is WAEC form for school candidates in 2026?
It is expected to be ₦18,000 – ₦20,000.

Q: How much is WAEC GCE form 2026?
The price is expected between ₦20,000 – ₦25,000.

Q: Will there be extra charges?
Yes. Extra charges may come from biometric capturing, late registration, or school admin fees.

Q: Can I pay for WAEC form online?
Yes. Especially for private candidates (GCE), WAEC’s online portal accepts direct payment.

Q: Is the price the same in all states?
Yes. WAEC fixes one price nationwide, but schools may add small extra fees.

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Conclusion

Think of the WAEC fee as an investment, not just an expense. Register early, budget for small extras, and avoid falling into the trap of fake agents. If you’re a parent, support your child by ensuring the registration is properly done. If you’re a student, take the process seriously — double-check your details, confirm your payment, and keep your slip safe.

With WAEC 2026 approaching, planning ahead now means you’ll avoid stress later.

How Much Is WAEC Form 2026? Price, Breakdown, and Important Updates