The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has taken another bold step toward digital transformation by testing computer-based essay writing for candidates. This new development marks a major milestone in WAEC’s ongoing plan to transition all its examinations — including essay and objective papers — into fully computer-based formats by 2026.
The pilot test, conducted in selected centers across the country, follows the successful implementation of computer-based testing (CBT) for objective questions earlier this year. With this essay test trial, WAEC aims to enhance efficiency, reduce malpractice, and modernize the examination process to align with global educational standards.
Background: How WAEC’s Digital Shift Started
WAEC first hinted at its intention to go digital in early 2024, citing the need to adapt to global educational trends and improve examination credibility. The idea gained traction when the council successfully conducted a computer-based mock examination for private candidates earlier in 2025.
Encouraged by the positive feedback and smooth conduct of that trial, WAEC extended the test to cover essay writing, which has traditionally been the most complex part of its examination process. The council’s decision to include essays in its digital pilot underscores its commitment to making the entire examination experience modern, transparent, and technologically advanced.
About the Computer-Based Essay Writing Test
During the test, candidates were required to compose their essays directly on computer screens instead of writing on paper. WAEC provided computers, stable power supply, and supervision by trained officials to ensure a smooth experience.
The test covered subjects that typically include essay sections such as English Language, Literature-in-English, Government, and Economics. Candidates typed their answers within the allocated time, and submissions were automatically stored and transmitted for marking through WAEC’s digital platform.
Officials from WAEC described the exercise as “highly successful”, noting that the test ran smoothly with minimal technical disruptions. They also highlighted the accuracy, speed, and efficiency of digital essay submission compared to manual paper collection.
WAEC’s Vision: Curbing Malpractice and Enhancing Credibility
According to WAEC, one of the main goals of adopting computer-based essay writing is to curb examination malpractice. Over the years, cheating and leakages have undermined the credibility of exams in West Africa.
With digital testing, scripts are encrypted, transmitted securely, and stored in a central database, making them harder to alter or leak. Additionally, real-time monitoring systems allow invigilators to track candidates’ activities during the test, reducing impersonation and collusion.
The council also believes that computer-based marking will make results more accurate and less prone to human error, ensuring fairness and transparency in grading.
Why This Move Matters for Nigerian Students
The introduction of computer-based essay writing is a historic educational reform that directly impacts millions of students across Nigeria and West Africa. Here’s why it matters:
- Promotes Digital Literacy: Students will now need to be familiar with typing, on-screen navigation, and basic computer operations — vital skills in today’s digital world.
- Faster Result Processing: Digital submissions mean scripts can be marked more quickly, potentially reducing the waiting period for results.
- Environmental Benefits: The reduction of paper usage supports eco-friendly examination practices.
- Level Playing Field: Computer-based systems minimize favoritism and human interference during marking.
- Enhanced Security: The digital model makes examination leakages and malpractice far more difficult.
Challenges Identified During the Trial
Despite the success of the pilot phase, WAEC officials acknowledged a few technical and infrastructural challenges that need to be addressed before full implementation:
- Electricity Supply: Many schools and centers across Nigeria still struggle with power instability, which could disrupt digital exams.
- Computer Availability: Not all schools have adequate computer facilities or modern ICT labs.
- Typing Skills: Some students, particularly from rural areas, have limited typing experience, which may affect their performance.
- Network Stability: Internet connectivity issues could hinder online exam transmission in remote locations.
WAEC has, however, assured the public that these challenges will be resolved before the full rollout of the computer-based system in 2026. The council plans to collaborate with federal and state governments to improve digital infrastructure in schools and train teachers on CBT supervision and management.
Stakeholder Reactions and Public Feedback
Teachers, parents, and education experts have expressed mixed reactions to the development. While many praised WAEC for embracing innovation, others urged caution and gradual implementation.
A senior secondary school teacher in Lagos described the move as “a positive step that will prepare students for a technology-driven future,” while some parents expressed concerns about accessibility for students in rural areas.
Educational analysts also commended WAEC’s commitment to transparency, noting that digital examinations will bring Nigeria closer to international assessment standards such as those used in SAT, TOEFL, and other global tests.
Next Steps: Toward Full Computer-Based WAEC Exams by 2026
WAEC has confirmed that the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will be fully computer-based if the final trials and system upgrades succeed.
Before then, the council will conduct multiple practice sessions and awareness programs across West African countries to ensure both students and teachers are adequately prepared. Schools are expected to organize mock CBT essay tests to familiarize students with typing, navigation, and time management on-screen.
WAEC’s digital roadmap also includes developing offline testing capabilities for centers with limited internet access, ensuring no candidate is left behind due to location or infrastructure challenges.
Expert Insight: What Students Should Start Doing Now
To prepare effectively for the upcoming change, education experts advise students to:
- Develop Typing Speed and Accuracy: Practice writing essays on computers to get comfortable with on-screen typing.
- Take Online Mock Tests: Engage with CBT platforms and practice apps that simulate exam environments.
- Improve Computer Skills: Learn basic file handling, keyboard shortcuts, and word processing software.
- Stay Updated: Follow WAEC announcements through reliable news platforms for updates on upcoming trials.
- Encourage Schools to Adapt: Schools should begin integrating ICT into lesson plans and establish CBT practice centers.
