WASSCE 2026 private results released: High failure rates recorded in core subjects

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has released the provisional results for the 2026 WASSCE for Private Candidates (First Series), revealing a mix of strong performances and concerning failure rates across core subjects.

A total of 23,410 candidates sat for the exam, made up of 9,980 males and 13,430 females. However, 746 registered candidates were absent.

According to WAEC’s Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, candidates can now check their results online via the council’s official portal.

Performance data shows varied outcomes. Social Studies recorded the highest success rate, with 8,131 candidates (75.10%) achieving grades A1 to C6. English Language followed, with 6,486 candidates (55.94%) attaining top grades.

Core Mathematics saw 6,675 candidates (37.84%) pass within this range, while Integrated Science recorded 3,679 candidates (28.13%) with similar grades.

Despite these successes, lower-grade results remain significant. In English Language, 1,625 candidates (14.02%) obtained D7, 1,604 (13.83%) scored E8, and 1,879 (16.21%) received F9. Core Mathematics recorded 1,926 candidates (10.92%) with D7, 2,103 (11.92%) with E8, and a notable 6,936 candidates (39.32%) failing with F9.

Integrated Science results also showed concern, with 1,743 candidates (13.33%) scoring D7, 2,413 obtaining E8, and 5,239 (40.06%) receiving F9. Social Studies performed comparatively better, with 660 candidates (6.10%) scoring D7, 533 (4.92%) E8, and 1,503 (13.88%) F9.

WAEC also reported malpractice issues. Subject results of 76 candidates and entire results of 87 candidates have been withheld pending investigations. Affected candidates are advised to follow official procedures via WAEC’s irregularities portal.

The council further warned the public against fraudsters promising result upgrades, emphasizing that its system is secure and all results are verifiable.