Every year, thousands of Nigerian students face the same dilemma: Should I prepare for WAEC first or focus on JAMB? Both are crucial for gaining admission into a tertiary institution, yet they test different skills, formats, and timelines.
This article will help you understand the key differences between the two exams, why choosing your priority matters, and how to balance your preparation for both without burning out.
Understanding the Basics
Let’s start with a simple breakdown:
| Feature | WAEC | JAMB |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | West African Examinations Council | Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board |
| Purpose | To certify completion of secondary school | To gain admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, etc. |
| Format | Essay + Objective + Practical (for science subjects) | Entirely CBT (Computer-Based Test) |
| Duration | Multiple weeks, subject-by-subject | 2 hours 30 minutes in one sitting |
| Focus | Broad understanding of secondary school syllabus | Aptitude and speed under time pressure |
So, Which Should You Prepare for First?
The answer depends on a few factors:
1. When Is Your Exam Date?
Sometimes, JAMB comes before WAEC. Other times, WAEC starts first. Check the official dates released for your year. If JAMB is earlier, give it early attention, and vice versa.
📌 Pro tip: Always start preparing at least 3–4 months before the first exam and build momentum gradually.
2. Your Academic Strengths
- If you’re strong in essay writing and broad subject knowledge (especially in Arts and Sciences), WAEC may feel easier.
- If you’re faster at objective questions and thinking under pressure, you may do better in JAMB.
Knowing your strength helps you plan better.
3. Exam Format Difference
WAEC tests depth. You’ll need to write essays, explain concepts, and show your workings.
JAMB tests speed and accuracy. You’re expected to answer 180 questions in 2 hours 30 minutes, meaning less than a minute per question. That’s intense!
🧠Strategy:
Start building speed early for JAMB by using past questions and CBT practice apps, even while preparing for WAEC.
4. Admission Requirement
You can’t gain university admission without both. WAEC provides your O’level result, and JAMB gives you your UTME score. Failing one will block your admission, so neither should be ignored.
But here’s the trick: you can write JAMB and still use “awaiting result” for WAEC, as long as you eventually upload the WAEC result before your school’s deadline.
Ideal Approach: Don’t Choose One—Plan for Both
Rather than thinking in terms of “either-or,” here’s a practical game plan:
Balanced Study Plan (Sample):
| Month | Focus |
|---|---|
| Nov – Jan | Focus on WAEC syllabus (broad subjects) |
| Feb – Mar | Start intense JAMB prep with past questions and CBT drills |
| April | JAMB exam (usually takes place around this time) |
| May – June | Shift focus fully to WAEC practicals and theory papers |
Note: Timings vary by year. Always check official dates.
Smart Tips to Manage Both
- Use a Combined Syllabus: You’re studying the same topics for both, but adjust the depth and style.
- Practice JAMB daily, revise WAEC weekly.
- Create flashcards and summary notes to revise faster.
- Use apps like Myschool CBT, Pass.ng, and WAEC Quiz to simulate real exam experience.
Final Thoughts
WAEC and JAMB aren’t enemies—you don’t have to choose one over the other. What you need is a smart approach that prepares you for both. Start early, work consistently, and adjust your focus based on the timetable. With God, grit, and good strategy, you can conquer both and move one step closer to your dream school.