WAEC Warns Schools, Supervisors Against Extorting Candidates During Ongoing WASSCE
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has issued a strong warning to schools, examination supervisors, and invigilators against collecting unauthorized fees from candidates participating in the ongoing 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). The examination body described such practices as illegal and harmful to the integrity of the examination process.
Key Update: WAEC says it has received reports that some schools and examination officials are demanding illegal payments from candidates and parents under various pretexts, including transportation of examination scripts, welfare packages, and so-called "cooperation fees." The Council has vowed to sanction anyone found guilty.
WAEC Raises Alarm Over Illegal Charges
According to WAEC, several complaints have been received concerning unauthorized collections from candidates during the ongoing WASSCE. The Council said some schools and supervisors have been demanding money from students and parents for services that are not approved by the examination body.
Fees Being Collected Under Various Names
WAEC disclosed that some candidates have reportedly been asked to pay for script transportation, supervisor welfare, logistics, and other unofficial expenses. The Council stressed that such charges are not authorized and should not be imposed on students or parents.
Calculator Charges Also Under Scrutiny
The examination body further revealed that some schools were charging candidates for KAPEK calculators that had already been provided free of charge by WAEC. The Council described this practice as unacceptable and misleading.
WAEC Condemns Extortion Practices
WAEC described the reported extortion as illegal, unethical, and a direct threat to the credibility of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination. The Council reiterated that examination integrity remains one of its highest priorities across member countries.
Schools and Officials Ordered to Stop Immediately
The Council directed all school proprietors, principals, supervisors, and invigilators to immediately discontinue any form of unauthorized collection of money from candidates or their parents. WAEC emphasized that no examination official is permitted to demand payments from students under any circumstance.
Candidates Encouraged to Report Violations
Students, parents, and other stakeholders have been urged to report any incidents of extortion through WAEC's official communication channels or directly to zonal coordinators. The Council said it is prepared to investigate all credible complaints received.
Serious Sanctions Await Offenders
WAEC warned that schools and examination officials found guilty of extortion could face severe disciplinary measures. These may include derecognition of examination centres, blacklisting, prosecution, and referral to relevant authorities for further action.
Protecting Examination Integrity
The Council stated that maintaining public confidence in its examinations requires strict adherence to established rules and ethical standards. WAEC reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all candidates are treated fairly throughout the examination process.
Ongoing WASSCE Continues Nationwide
The 2026 May/June WASSCE for school candidates commenced on April 21 and is expected to conclude on June 19. Despite logistical challenges experienced during the examination period, WAEC says it remains committed to ensuring a smooth and credible conduct of the exercise.
Message to Parents and Candidates
Parents and candidates are advised to remain vigilant and avoid making any payments that are not officially approved by WAEC. Candidates should seek clarification from school authorities or WAEC representatives whenever questionable charges arise during examinations.
Final Thoughts
WAEC's warning serves as a strong reminder that examination processes must remain transparent, fair, and free from exploitation. By taking a firm stance against extortion, the Council aims to protect candidates from unnecessary financial burdens while preserving the credibility of one of West Africa's most important academic examinations. Schools, supervisors, and invigilators are expected to comply fully with the directive as the 2026 WASSCE approaches its conclusion.
Education Insight: Candidates should never be compelled to pay unauthorized examination fees. Any suspicious demand for money should be reported immediately to WAEC through official channels.
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