Every year, thousands of Nigerian students sit for WAEC (West African Examinations Council) and NECO (National Examinations Council) exams. These results are crucial because universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education use them alongside JAMB UTME for admission.
However, many students make simple errors that delay or even block admission. This guide explains the most common WAEC/NECO mistakes and how to avoid them.
Why WAEC/NECO Results Are Important
Admission into Nigerian universities does not depend on UTME alone. Schools also check:
• O’Level grades (WAEC or NECO) in at least five subjects, including English and Mathematics.
• The aggregate of UTME + O’Level through JAMB CAPS.
• Post-UTME or screening results (if the school requires them).
Therefore, even a high UTME score cannot guarantee admission if your O’Level record is incomplete or wrong.
Common WAEC/NECO Mistakes That Delay Admission
Wrong Subject Combinations
Many candidates sit for subjects that do not match their chosen course. For instance, a Medicine aspirant who skips Biology or Chemistry may be automatically disqualified.
Tip: Always check the JAMB brochure to confirm the right subjects before registering for WAEC or NECO.
Incomplete Results (Awaiting Results Problem)
Some candidates apply with “awaiting results.” Although this is accepted, it causes issues when results are delayed or never uploaded.
Tip: Once your results are out, upload them immediately at a JAMB CBT centre.
Failure to Upload on JAMB CAPS
One of the most common mistakes is not uploading O’Level results on JAMB CAPS. Since JAMB cleared old uploads in 2025, re-uploading became mandatory. Without this step, schools cannot process your admission.
Tip: Visit a CBT centre and confirm your results are visible on CAPS. Keep a slip for proof.
Name Mismatches and Date Errors
Differences in names or date of birth between WAEC/NECO and JAMB records can delay verification. For example:
• WAEC says “Oluwaseun Adewale” but JAMB says “Seun Adewale.”
Tip: Use the same name and date format across all documents. If there is a mistake, apply for correction quickly.
Poor Grades in Core Subjects
Even if your UTME score is high, weak grades in Mathematics, English, or core science subjects may block admission. Universities require at least five credits including English and Mathematics.
Tip: Take O’Level seriously. If necessary, write NECO or WAEC GCE to improve your grades.
Combining Results Incorrectly
Some students use both WAEC and NECO results, which is allowed. Problems occur when the two results don’t provide the five required credits or when candidates upload only one.
Tip: Ensure the five credits are covered across both results and upload them properly.
Withheld or Cancelled Results
Every year, WAEC and NECO withhold some results due to malpractice or verification. If your result is withheld, admission will be delayed.
Tip: Avoid malpractice. If your result is withheld, follow up with WAEC/NECO offices immediately.
Using Fake or Altered Results
Some candidates attempt to use fake or doctored results. Universities cross-check all results with WAEC and NECO, and once discovered, you risk losing your admission.
Tip: Always use genuine results.
Late Correction of Errors
Students sometimes delay correcting errors in their results. By the time corrections are made, admission lists are already closing.
Tip: Apply for corrections immediately after results are released.
How These Mistakes Delay Admission
• Universities reject incomplete or fake applications.
• JAMB CAPS cannot process admission without valid uploads.
• Name or date mismatches cause verification delays.
• Weak O’Level grades mean you do not meet departmental requirements.
As a result, even minor mistakes can cost you an entire admission year.
Practical Steps to Avoid WAEC/NECO Mistakes
1. Verify biodata during WAEC/NECO registration.
2. Cross-check subject choices with your target course.
3. Upload results early on JAMB CAPS.
4. Check admission portals regularly for updates.
5. Correct errors quickly before admission deadlines.
Final Thoughts
The common WAEC/NECO mistakes that delay admission in Nigeria include wrong subject combinations, failure to upload results, mismatched names, withheld results, and poor grades in core subjects.
By avoiding these errors and following proper procedures, you will improve your admission chances. Always act early, stay informed, and keep your documents consistent.
Read also: JAMB 2025 admission deadlines and Mandatory re-uploading of O’Level results.