WAEC CBT Requirements include 250 laptops, stable power, CCTV, and more, as schools prepare for full transition to computer-based testing by 2026

WAEC CBT Requirements have been formally unveiled as the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) prepares to fully transition the WASSCE to computer-based testing (CBT) by 2026.

Also read: NECO Computer-Based Exam to Replace Paper Tests by 2025 in Bold Shift

Speaking during a sensitisation programme in Port Harcourt on Thursday, WAEC Head of Examinations, Mr Lucky Njoagwuani, outlined the essential facilities schools must provide to host the exam within their premises.

“We started with the fourth series of our private candidate exam about two years ago, and it was successful. This year’s second series is fully computer-based with no pen-and-paper option,” Njoagwuani said.

“Invariably, next year’s school candidate exam will also be fully computer-based.”

Key WAEC CBT Requirements for Schools:

• Minimum of 250 functional laptops with 10% backups
• Robust computer server that can support 250 systems simultaneously
• Local Area Network (LAN) setup
• Functional air conditioners and lighting
• Uninterrupted electricity supply
• Backup generator of at least 40kVA
• CCTV cameras
• Holding room or reception area for candidates

According to Njoagwuani, the transition will reduce logistical burdens, improve security, and widen access to the exams across Nigeria and West Africa.

The WAEC Port Harcourt Zonal Coordinator, Mr Adeniran-Amusan Akim, emphasised that the council would not compromise standards.

Schools unable to meet the listed infrastructure requirements will be assigned to accredited CBT centres.

“WAEC will not lower the standards. Any school that wants to host exams must provide the required infrastructure,” Akim stated.

The Rivers State Chairman of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Mr Sunday Jaja, encouraged school owners to tap into financial support from the Bank of Industry and Federal Government’s MSME funds to meet WAEC’s digital standards.

“Technology is central to modern education. Schools must stay ahead by upgrading their ICT facilities to meet WAEC CBT requirements,” Jaja added.

The sensitisation event was jointly organised by Teadro Systems Ltd, NAPPS, and key partners including HP, Lenovo, Canon, and the Bank of Industry.

A highlight of the event was the raffle-draw donation of ICT gadgets such as laptops, tablets, and printers to select schools.

Also read: WAEC Revises 2025 WASSCE Results, Boosts Pass Rate from 38% to Nearly 63%

As the 2026 digital transition deadline approaches, WAEC is making it clear: schools must adapt or risk being left behind.