2026 WASSCE Results: Over 47,000 Candidates Have Results Withheld Amid Examination Malpractice Concerns

A total of 201,124 candidates from 1,043 schools across Sierra Leone registered for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), with the release of results revealing significant concerns over suspected examination malpractice and performance in key subjects.

According to the results highlights released on Tuesday, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has published the results of 200,756 candidates, while the results of 368 candidates from five private schools remain unpublished due to non-payment.

The results also show that 47,454 candidates had their results withheld over suspected examination malpractice. WAEC is expected to complete investigations into the cases, and the affected candidates may have their results released depending on the outcome.

In addition, 11,492 candidates, comprising 6,490 females and 5,002 males, reportedly appear to have been absent from all examination subjects. Meanwhile, 141,810 candidates were recorded as present during the examination, according to the figures provided.

Performance in English Language and Mathematics

The performance figures indicate continuing challenges in English Language, with 63.33 per cent of candidates reportedly failing the subject.

In Mathematics, however, 62.15 per cent of candidates obtained a credit grade or better, reflecting a comparatively stronger performance in the subject.

The figures highlight the need for sustained efforts to improve teaching, learning and examination preparedness across secondary schools in Sierra Leone.

Top-Performing Candidates and School

Alfred Farwell Thorpe of Sierra Leone Grammar School emerged as the best-performing candidate in the 2026 WASSCE. He obtained six A1 grades, one B3 and one C4, demonstrating an outstanding performance across eight subjects.

Silawi Alie of Camboi Lebanese Secondary School in Kenema emerged as the second-best-performing candidate. She secured four A grades, two B2s and two B3s, with a reported average point of 1.75.

At the institutional level, Awada Senior Secondary School in Bo was named the best-performing school in this year's examination.

The achievements of the top-performing candidates and school provide a positive highlight amid concerns about withheld results and the performance of candidates in some subjects.

Investigations into Withheld Results

The withholding of results for 47,454 candidates represents one of the major issues arising from the 2026 WASSCE results.

The affected candidates' results remain subject to investigations into suspected examination malpractice. The eventual publication of those results will depend on the findings and decisions of the relevant examination authorities.

The non-publication of results for 368 candidates from five private schools also raises concerns about the consequences of outstanding payments, as candidates await the release of their academic outcomes.

Need for Improved Learning Outcomes

The 2026 WASSCE results provide important information for education stakeholders, including the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, school administrators, teachers, parents and students.

While the achievements of the top-performing candidates demonstrate academic excellence, the reported failure rate in English Language and the number of results withheld underline the importance of strengthening teaching and learning, promoting examination integrity and ensuring compliance with examination regulations.

Further clarification from WAEC and the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education would help establish the full picture of the results, particularly the final status of withheld results and the overall performance of candidates across subjects.

As investigations continue, affected candidates and their families will be awaiting further updates on the publication of outstanding results.