A viral TikTok video has sparked a crucial conversation for Nigerian students who received poor grades in the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). A Nigerian lady, identified as Azeezat, has advised candidates who scored E8 or F9 in English Language or Mathematics on their next steps, emphasizing that these grades are unacceptable for higher institution admission in Nigeria.
Minimum Grade Requirement for Admission
In her video, Azeezat delivered a clear message: no Nigerian university or polytechnic will accept an O-level result with less than a C5 in both English and mathematics. She explained that this is a universal requirement across all tertiary institutions in the country. Candidates who fall below this threshold must retake the examination to improve their grades.
Azeezat also addressed those who scored below C5 in other subjects required for their intended course of study. She suggested that a supporting result from an alternative examination body could serve as a backup. She listed the National Examinations Council (NECO), NECO GCE, and the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) as acceptable options. However, she cautioned that not all institutions recognize NABTEB results, so candidates must confirm with their preferred school before relying on it.
Two-Sitting Restrictions
The advisor highlighted an important restriction for students hoping to combine results from two different sittings. Certain competitive courses, including Medicine and Surgery, Nursing, Law, and Pharmacy, do not accept two-sitting results at all. Beyond individual courses, she pointed out that some universities, such as the University of Lagos (UNILAG), have a blanket policy against two sittings. This makes it essential for applicants to verify their target school's specific requirements before proceeding with any application.
Azeezat's advice comes as thousands of Nigerian students nationwide grapple with their 2026 WAEC results. The examination, conducted by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), is a critical gateway to higher education in Nigeria. According to WAEC statistics, a significant percentage of candidates typically score below C5 in English and mathematics each year, underscoring the relevance of this advisory.
Viewers React to the Advice
The video drew a wave of questions from Nigerians anxious about their own results. One viewer, @chi love, asked: "What about c6 naw, they said is credit too I got in in maths?" Another, @Big sha sha, inquired: "I scored D7 in physics will I be able to study nursing." @okohsalehjosephine asked: "Waec is out but maths is f9 can i still apply for awaiting results which is Nco." @Luna added: "Under one of my important subjects I saw outstanding and my maths I got C4 and English C6 physics A1 chemistry B2 my biology is what they wrote outstanding, I don't understand and my course is surgical nurse."
These comments reflect the widespread confusion and concern among candidates. Azeezat's video, which has since gone viral, aims to provide clarity and direction for those who may feel disheartened by their results. She emphasized that retaking the exam is a viable path and encouraged candidates not to lose hope.
Related: Science Student Displays His WAEC Result
In a related development, Legit.ng previously reported that Moses Daniel Terzungwe, a 2026 WASSCE candidate from Sky Crest High School in Bauchi, shared his WAEC result on Facebook and asked whether it was good enough for medicine. His result showed credits across key science subjects including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and English Language. The response to his post highlighted the varying standards across institutions and the importance of meeting specific course requirements.
For candidates with withheld or outstanding results, Azeezat also addressed their situation, noting that not all such results are eventually released by WAEC. She advised them to check the WAEC portal regularly and to consider appealing if necessary. The West African Examinations Council typically withholds results for suspected malpractice or incomplete records, and candidates are advised to contact their schools for clarification.
As the 2026 admission season approaches, Azeezat's advice serves as a timely reminder for students to thoroughly research their chosen institutions' requirements and to plan their next steps accordingly. Whether it involves retaking the exam, combining results, or exploring alternative examination bodies, the key is to stay informed and proactive.
