Big changes are coming for secondary school students in Nigeria. The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) are planning to move their exams to a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format. This shift could start as soon as the year 2026. This means the familiar paper and pencil exams will be replaced by computers. For millions of students, this news brings both excitement and worry. This article breaks down what we know so far, what it means for you, and how you can get ready.
Official News About the CBT Change
The talk about moving WAEC and NECO to computer-based tests is not just a rumor. Senior officials from these exam bodies have confirmed the plans in public statements. The goal is to modernize the examination process across West Africa.
In late 2024, the Head of the National Office for WAEC in Nigeria, Dr. Amos Josiah, mentioned that WAEC is working hard on a digital transformation plan. He said that a move to CBT is the next logical step to make exams more secure, efficient, and in line with global standards.
For NECO, the Registrar, Prof. Ibrahim Wushishi, has also spoken about similar plans. He stated that NECO is already testing and preparing for a full shift to a computer-based format for the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE). The year 2026 has been mentioned as a possible starting point for a full rollout.
Why Are WAEC and NECO Changing to CBT?
The exam councils have given several important reasons for this major change. The main goals are to reduce examination malpractice, make marking faster, and prepare students for a digital world.
First, CBT exams are seen as more secure. With paper exams, question papers can be leaked before the exam date. With a computer-based system, questions can be stored securely on a central server and only appear on a student’s screen at the exact time of the exam. This makes cheating much harder.
Second, it speeds up everything. Currently, it can take months to mark millions of paper scripts by hand. With CBT, results can be processed and released in a much shorter time. Students will not have to wait as long for their results.
Finally, the world is digital now. Universities are using CBT for entrance exams like JAMB UTME. Many professional exams are also computer-based. Moving WAEC and NECO to CBT will help Nigerian students get used to this format early, preparing them for future tests and a tech-driven workplace.
What Will the New CBT Exams Look Like?
The format of the exams will change, but the subjects and content will remain the same. You will still be tested on Mathematics, English, Physics, and all your other subjects. The difference is how you will answer the questions.
Instead of an answer booklet, you will sit in front of a computer in an exam hall. The questions will appear on the screen, one after another or in sections. You will use the mouse and keyboard to select your answers. For subjects like Mathematics, you might need to type in numbers. For essay subjects like English, you will likely type your essays into a text box on the computer.
The exam might not be 100% online. It is expected to be a “CBT” format, not necessarily an “online” exam that needs constant internet. The questions will likely be downloaded to the computer before the exam starts, so a poor internet connection during the test will not be a problem.
Big Challenges Ahead for the Change
Switching a national exam taken by over 1.5 million students each year is a huge task. There are some very real challenges that WAEC, NECO, and the government must solve before 2026.
The biggest problem is a lack of computers and reliable electricity. Many public schools across Nigeria do not have computer labs. Even schools that have labs often do not have enough working computers for all their students to take an exam at once. Constant power supply is another major issue in many towns and villages.
Another challenge is training. Many students, especially in rural areas, are not very familiar with using computers. Teachers will also need training on how to conduct these new CBT exams and prepare their students.
Finally, there is the cost. Who will pay for all these computers, software, and power generators? The government, schools, and parents will need to work together to make this possible for every student, not just those in expensive private schools in big cities.
How This Change Will Affect Students
This shift will affect you in several ways, both good and bad. Knowing these effects will help you prepare your mind.
On the positive side, your results should come out faster. You may get your WAEC or NECO result in a few weeks instead of months. This is good for applying to universities on time. The exams should also be fairer, with less chance of cheating affecting the grades.
However, there are also worries. If you are not good with computers, you might struggle with the format even if you know the subject. Typing an English essay is very different from writing it by hand. You need to be fast and accurate on the keyboard. There is also the fear of technical problems. What if the computer freezes or shuts down during your exam?
Practical Steps to Prepare for CBT WAEC/NECO 2026
If you will be writing your exam around 2026 or later, you need to start getting ready now. Do not wait until the exam is at your doorstep.
First, improve your computer skills. This is the most important step. Start practicing typing regularly. You can use free online typing tutors. Try to get comfortable using a mouse and navigating on a screen. If your school has a computer lab, spend time there. If not, see if you can visit a cyber cafe or use a family member’s computer to practice.
Second, practice with CBT formats. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has been using CBT for years. You can find JAMB CBT practice software and past questions online. Use them to get a feel for how questions are presented and how to answer them on a computer. This practice is gold.
Third, talk to your school. Ask your principals and teachers what the school’s plan is for this change. Are they getting computers? Will there be training? Putting pressure on your school to prepare can help make sure you are not left behind.
What Parents and Teachers Need to Do
This change is not just for students. Parents and teachers have a big role to play in making it a success.
Parents should try to expose their children to computers. Even an old, basic laptop can help a child practice typing and get familiar with a keyboard. Parents can also support schools by joining parent-teacher associations to demand that the government provides the necessary tools for this digital transition.
Teachers need to start adapting their teaching methods. They should begin to give class tests and assignments that require typing answers. They should also get trained themselves. Teachers who are not computer-literate must learn so they can guide their students properly.
People Also Ask
Will the CBT exam be harder than the paper exam?
The difficulty of the questions will be the same. The challenge will be getting used to the computer format. If you practice, it should not be harder. In fact, for objective questions, it might be easier to review and change answers.
What if I am not good at typing? Will I fail?
This is a major concern. The exam councils have said they will consider this and likely give students enough time to complete their answers. However, it is in your best interest to start learning to type well now. Practice is the only solution.
Will there be any trial exams before 2026?
Yes, it is very likely. Both WAEC and NECO are expected to run pilot tests in selected schools before the full launch. This is to identify problems and fix them before every student has to do it.
How will practical exams like Biology or Chemistry work?
This is still unclear. For subjects that need a physical practical session, there may still be a paper-based or lab-based component. Alternatively, they might use computer simulations for some parts. Official guidelines will come later.
What about students in villages with no light or computers?
This is the biggest question. The government and exam bodies have promised that they will make arrangements. This could include setting up special CBT centers in towns and providing generator power. But it remains the biggest challenge to a fair rollout.
The Bottom Line: Start Preparing Now
The move of WAEC and NECO to Computer-Based Tests by 2026 is a big step for education in Nigeria. It aims to bring positive change but comes with serious challenges that need to be fixed.
As a student, the power is in your hands. Do not be afraid of the change. See it as a chance to develop a skill you will need for the rest of your life. Start practicing with a computer today. Improve your typing, get familiar with CBT practice tests, and stay informed by checking the official WAEC and NECO websites for updates.
With the right preparation from students, parents, teachers, and the government, this shift can make exams fairer, faster, and better for everyone. The future is digital, and this is your first step into it.