WAEC has simplified life for students in Ghana by introducing the January 2025 Private WASSCE, also known as the first series. Before this innovation, WAEC only organized one private WASSCE in Ghana—commonly referred to as NOVDEC—held annually in November-December.
The January 2025 Private WASSCE, the first of its kind in Ghana, has left many students wondering why it is considered the better option. This examination offers several advantages that can significantly impact your educational journey.
Benefits of the January 2025 Private WASSCE
- Faster University Admission:
Students who write and pass the January 2025 Private WASSCE can apply for university admissions in October 2025. This enables them to join the 2025–2026 academic year without delay. - Cost-Effective Preparation:
Unlike NOVDEC, where remedial school is often necessary, students can use their existing textbooks and notes to prepare for the January exam, saving money on extra tuition. - Flexible Retake Options:
If a student fails the January exam, they can re-register for the NOVDEC exam in the same year. This gives an additional opportunity to improve grades within the same academic year.
Drawbacks of NOVDEC
- Delayed University Admission:
NOVDEC results are typically released after universities close admissions for the academic year. This means students must wait until the following year (2026) to apply, resulting in a two-year gap after failing the 2024 WASSCE. - Higher Costs for Preparation:
Many students require remedial classes for six months or more to prepare adequately for NOVDEC, adding extra financial burden. - Limited Flexibility:
Students who fail the NOVDEC exam cannot switch to the January series, as NOVDEC results are released after the January registration closes.
READ: Top 3 Remedial Schools For Passing WASSCE/ NOVDEC in Ghana
Key Takeaways
For students who want to minimise delays and maximise opportunities, the January 2025 Private WASSCE is the ideal option. It provides faster access to university admissions, reduces the financial strain of remedial classes, and offers flexibility for retakes within the same year.
The choice is clear: Writing the January 2025 Private WASSCE is a strategic move for students looking to secure a bright future without unnecessary delays.
READ: Pass WASSCE (School and Private) in 1 of these 3 top remedial schools
A table summarising the advantages and disadvantages of the January 2025 Private WASSCE and the NOVDEC examination
| Exam Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| January 2025 Private WASSCE | – Results are released early, allowing students to apply for university admissions the same year (October 2025). – Eliminates the need for remedial school fees as students can revise using their previous notes. – Offers a second chance to take NOVDEC in the same year if needed. | – Limited preparation time, especially for students who just completed their previous WASSCE. |
| NOVDEC (Second Series) | – Provides more preparation time, allowing students to thoroughly revise or attend remedial schools. | – Results are released after university admissions close for the 2025–2026 academic year, delaying entry into tertiary education by an additional year. – No opportunity to register for the January series if NOVDEC results are unsatisfactory. |
If you want to write the examination, take advantage of it now.