How Ghanaian Students Should Prepare for West African Examinations Council (WAEC) 2026 Computer-Based Testing (CBT)

With WAEC’s 2026 move to fully computer-based testing (CBT), Ghanaian students must build digital literacy, practice online mock tests, and adapt time-management skills to succeed.

Accra – EducationGhana.org | October 21, 2025

As the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) gears up to transform its assessment model into fully computer-based testing (CBT) by 2026, students in Ghana must start early to adapt to the new format. Although WAEC’s announcements are primarily centred on Nigeria, the implications extend across West Africa—including Ghana, where many schools are already experimenting with digital assessments.

To maintain academic competitiveness and avoid being caught off guard, Ghanaian students should focus on four key preparation areas: digital readiness, time management, subject adaptation, and logistical awareness.

1. Build Digital Literacy and Computer Confidence

The shift from paper to screen demands comfort with the keyboard, navigation and digital interface. Students should:

• Practice on computers in their schools or local ICT centres — familiarise with mouse usage, typing, responding to on-screen prompts.
• Engage with online mock CBT platforms: Although many platforms reference Nigeria, the underlying skills remain relevant (e.g., browsing questions, marking selections, submitting answers).
• Resolve to develop keyboard speed: For short essays, responses and system navigation, a basic typing skillset becomes a non-negotiable.

Digital confidence reduces anxiety on exam day and allows more focus on content than mechanics.

2. Master the CBT Exam Interface and Work under Time Pressure

Computer-based exams differ in pacing and format compared to traditional tests. Students should:

• Understand navigation features: moving back and forth between questions, marking for review, and monitoring the countdown timer.
• Create timed practice sessions: For example, answer 50 questions in 35 minutes to simulate real conditions.
• Simulate partial distractions: Power out, paused internet, or unresponsive screen — so that you build calm and recovery skills.

This practice is crucial because CBT often allows no retakes of submitted answers and emphasises accuracy within short windows.

3. Adjust Study Strategies for Digital Assessment

While the core syllabus remains unchanged, digital exams require slight strategy shifts:

• In objective sections: practice speed and accuracy with the help of online quizzes.
• In essay/theory components: expect typed responses (in the long term) and adjust by practising typed essays.
• Adopt digital resources: E-books, online videos, and interactive simulations can enhance understanding in STEM, humanities, and languages.
• Stay updated on WAEC’s phased approach: Reports suggest WAEC will begin with objective papers in 2026, then roll out theory/practical components.

4. Stay Informed on Logistics and Centre Arrangements

Access and infrastructure may differ by region. In Ghana, students should:

• Confirm their exam centre early: Investigate whether centres will hold CBT, paper-based or hybrid formats.
• Verify equipment: Centres should show functional computers, internet backups and invigilation systems.
• Partner with school leadership: Encourage your school to liaise with the Ministry of Education and the local district to secure reliable facilities.
• Be aware of equitable access initiatives: WAEC has stated that no candidate will be left behind for lack of technology, though readiness levels differ.

Why Early Preparation Matters

The transition to CBT is more than adapting to screens — it signals a shift in how exams measure and reflect 21st-century skills: digital literacy, agility, time-management and global competitiveness.

In Ghana, preparation now sets students ahead of the curve. Schools that begin integrating ICT in assessment practices will give their candidates a strategic advantage.

Related Guides

• Waec to Students: Get Familiar with CBT-Exam Ahead of 2026
• WAEC’s Leap into the Future: Why CBT is Right Move for Africa’s Premier Exam Body
• How Schools Can Upgrade for CBT: FAQ and Checklist

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