Private vs School Candidate WAEC: Key Differences You Should Know
If you’re planning to write WAEC in 2025, you’ll have to choose between writing as a school candidate or a private candidate. But what’s the difference? And which one is right for you?
In this post, we break down everything you need to know so you can make the best choice.
1. What Is a WAEC School Candidate?
A school candidate is someone writing WAEC through a registered secondary school. This is usually for students in SS3 who:
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Attend school regularly
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Register through their school
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Write the May/June WAEC exam
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Have their results sent directly to the school
2. What Is a WAEC Private Candidate?
A private candidate writes WAEC independently — not through a school. This is also known as WAEC GCE (General Certificate Examination) and takes place in two series:
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First Series: January/February (early GCE)
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Second Series: October/November (main GCE)
Private candidates are often:
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Those retaking WAEC
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Those who left school earlier
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Students who want a flexible exam date
Key Differences Between WAEC School and Private Candidates
| Criteria | School Candidate | Private Candidate |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Type | WAEC May/June | WAEC GCE (Jan/Feb or Oct/Nov) |
| Registration | Done through school | Done online via WAEC portal |
| Eligibility | Must be in SS3 | Open to all, no age limit |
| Exam Venue | In registered school centres | In approved WAEC centres |
| Cost | Usually cheaper (shared fees) | Slightly higher (self-funded) |
| Result Collection | Through the school | Online + original certificate |
| Uniform | School uniform compulsory | No uniform required |
Which One Should You Choose?
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Choose School Candidate if you're still in secondary school and eligible to register through your school.
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Choose Private Candidate if you:
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Already graduated or dropped out
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Want to rewrite some subjects
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Missed the school WAEC
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Need a second chance outside the regular calendar
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Final Advice
Both exam types are valid and widely accepted for university admission, NYSC, and job opportunities. What matters most is passing your subjects with good grades.
For more helpful exam tips and comparisons, stick with Scholars Demo — your trusted guide for WAEC success.