The long-awaited roadmap for the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) is officially here. The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has released the final timetable, setting the stage for thousands of JHS candidates across Ghana to take their exit exams.
The 2026 schedule continues to reflect the New Curriculum (CCP) standards, ensuring that students are assessed through modern educational frameworks that prioritize critical thinking and application.
Quick Look: 2026 BECE Examination Dates
According to the official schedule, the examinations will commence on Monday, 4th May 2026, and conclude on Monday, 11th May 2026.
Day-by-Day Breakdown of the 2026 BECE Schedule
Candidates should prepare for a rigorous week of assessment. Standard morning sessions are set for 9:00 AM, with afternoon sessions following at 1:00 PM.
- Monday, 4th May: The week opens with Social Studies (Morning) and Computing (Afternoon).
- Tuesday, 5th May: A focus on language and values with English Language followed by Religious and Moral Education (RME).
- Wednesday, 6th May: The sciences take center stage with General Science and Ghanaian Language papers.
- Thursday, 7th May: A critical day featuring Mathematics in the morning and Career Technology in the afternoon.
- Friday, 8th May: Rounding off the core week with French and Creative Art & Design.
- Monday, 11th May: The final day is reserved for optional subjects, specifically Arabic, marking the official end of the 2026 BECE.
Official 2026 BECE Timetable Table
| Date & Day | Morning Session (9:00 AM) | Afternoon Session (1:00 PM) |
| Mon, 4th May | Social Studies (1hr 45mins) | Computing (1hr 45mins) |
| Tue, 5th May | English Language (1hr 45mins) | Religious & Moral Educ. (1hr 45mins) |
| Wed, 6th May | General Science (2hrs 00mins) | Ghanaian Language (1hr 45mins) |
| Thu, 7th May | Mathematics (2hrs 00mins) | Career Technology (1hr 45mins) |
| Fri, 8th May | French (1hr 45mins) | Creative Art & Design (1hr 45mins) |
| Mon, 11th May | Arabic (Optional) (1hr 45mins) | EXAMINATION ENDS |
Candidate Instructions & Examination Rules
WAEC has issued strict guidelines to maintain the integrity of the 2026 exams:
- Arrival Time: Candidates must be present at their centers at least 30 minutes before the start of each paper.
- Prohibited Items: Mobile phones, programmable calculators, and any unauthorized electronic devices are strictly banned from the hall.
- Mandatory Tools: Ensure you have a clear pencil case and your official WAEC ID card at all times.
READ: BECE Online Quizzes
Success Tips for 2026 Candidates
- Master the CCP Style: Focus on “Application” and “Critical Thinking” questions rather than simple memorization.
- Manage Your Time: Practice your Mathematics and Science essays within the 2-hour limit to build speed and accuracy.
- Health & Well-being: Ensure you get enough rest during the exam week to stay sharp for the afternoon sessions.
