WAEC WARNS SCHOOLS AGAINST EXCESSIVE CHARGES FOR 2027 MAY/JUNE EXAMINATION

The examination body has reportedly raised concerns about arbitrary charges imposed on candidates, as schools and students prepare for the 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination. The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has warned against arbitrary charges associated with the 2027 May/June West African Senior School Certificate Examination. The warning comes amid concerns that some schools may impose additional payments on students preparing to sit for the examination. The issue is important for parents and candidates who already face the financial demands associated with secondary education, examination registration and preparations for post-secondary studies. According to reports included in the October 18 Nigerian news roundup, WAEC and the Federal Ministry of Education have been addressing concerns about excessive charges. For many families, the cost of preparing a child for a major examination is a significant financial responsibility. Apart from official examination charges, households may also have to pay for textbooks, transport, practical materials, lessons and other school-related expenses.vWhen additional fees are imposed without clear explanations, parents may struggle to determine which payments are compulsory and which are school-specific charges. Unnecessary or excessive demands can also create pressure on students who are preparing for examinations that may determine their next educational steps. Schools and relevant authorities have a responsibility to communicate examination-related charges clearly. Parents should be given an explanation of the purpose of each payment, while candidates should receive accurate information about registration requirements and deadlines. Where an additional charge is disputed, parents can seek clarification from the school and consult the relevant education authorities or WAEC office. Candidates should avoid relying solely on unofficial social media messages or information circulated in group chats when making payments. Students preparing for the 2027 examination should confirm their registration arrangements through their schools and official WAEC communication channels. Parents should request written details of charges where necessary and retain receipts for payments made. They should also be cautious about sending money to personal accounts or individuals who claim to be collecting official examination fees without proper authorisation. Any complaint about an allegedly unauthorised charge should be supported by relevant documentation, including payment requests and receipts. Access to examinations is an important part of educational opportunity. Excessive or unexplained charges can add pressure to families and potentially create barriers for candidates from lower-income households. The reported warning places renewed emphasis on the need for transparent examination administration and clear communication between schools, parents and the relevant authorities. For now, candidates should verify the official requirements for the 2027 May/June examination before making payments.