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GCE Timetable 2026: WAEC & NECO Exam Dates & How to Read It

When the 2026 GCE holds for WAEC and NECO, where to get the official timetable, and how to plan.

By Belmadeng Editorial · Updated 22 Sept 2026 · 2026 GCE

Please note

Belmadeng is an independent study platform and is not affiliated with WAEC or NECO. In Nigeria, “GCE” means the WAEC GCE and NECO GCE for private candidates. Register and check results only on the official WAEC (waec.org.ng, waecdirect.org) and NECO (neco.gov.ng, results.neco.gov.ng) websites, and never enter your details on look-alike sites.

On this page

Confirm the official dates. The dates below are current as of September 2026 and can change — always confirm on waec.org.ng and neco.gov.ng.

WAEC GCE dates

WAEC runs the GCE in two series: the First Series around January/February, and the Second Series around October–December. For 2026, Second Series registration ran from 4 May to 31 July, with the exam expected in the October–December window. See WAEC timetable.

NECO GCE dates

The NECO GCE (SSCE External) holds once, in the Nov/Dec window. For 2026, registration ran to mid-November with the exam fixed for around 25 November–12 December. See NECO timetable.

Where to get the timetable

The official subject-by-subject timetable is released closer to the exam on the official WAEC/NECO sites and (for schools) your centre. Avoid unofficial timetables, which are often wrong.

How to read & plan

For each subject, note the paper(s), date, time and duration, and plan revision backward from each date.

CBT sessions

GCE objective papers are computer-based, so you may be scheduled in a morning or afternoon session — check your session and arrive early. Practise on screen with our CBT practice.

Frequently asked questions

When is the GCE 2026?
WAEC GCE runs two series (around Jan/Feb and Oct–Dec); NECO GCE holds once (Nov/Dec, around 25 Nov–12 Dec for 2026). Confirm exact dates on the official sites.
Where can I get the official GCE timetable?
From the official WAEC (waec.org.ng) and NECO (neco.gov.ng) websites, released closer to the exam. Avoid unofficial timetables.
How many times a year is the WAEC GCE?
Twice — the First Series (around Jan/Feb) and the Second Series (around Oct–Dec).
When is the NECO GCE?
Once a year, in the November/December window.
Is the GCE computer-based?
Yes — objective papers are computer-based, with essay/practical papers in a hybrid format.

Related GCE guides

Series & dates · Registration · How to pass · All GCE guides

Reviewed: 22 Sept 2026 · Author: Belmadeng Editorial. Independent guide, not affiliated with WAEC or NECO. Dates and fees change each year — always confirm on the official WAEC and NECO websites.