WASSCE grading system and how to calculating your aggregate Score

WASSCE grading system

The West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) was established in 1952 by the West African Examination Council (WAEC) as a means to qualify senior high school graduates for admission into universities. This examination is conducted annually in May/June and is also taken in Nigeria, Sierra Leone, the Gambia, and Liberia.

Additionally, WAEC conducts Nov/Dec examinations for students who wish to improve their results. In this article, we will explore the WASSCE grading system and provide insights on calculating your aggregate score.

WASSCE Grading System:

The WASSCE results are determined by combining the best grades obtained in three core subjects and three elective subjects. Mathematics and science are compulsory, and a credit score in these two subjects is acceptable. The grading system for WASSCE scores is as follows:

• 100-75 percent: A1 (Excellent)
• 74-70 percent: B2 (Very Good)
• 69-65 percent: B3 (Good)
• 64-60 percent: C4 (Credit)
• 59-55 percent: C5 (Credit)
• 54-50 percent: C6 (Credit)
• 49-45 percent: D7 (Pass)
• 44-40 percent: E8 (Pass)
• 39-0 percent: F9 (Fail)

The exams are marked by teachers using the WAEC marking scheme, and they are reviewed by professionals. Objective questions are assessed based on accuracy using computer-based marking, while theory questions take into account workings, steps, accuracy, and attempts.

Calculating Your WASSCE Aggregate Score:

To determine your WASSCE aggregate score, you need to consider the cut-off point set by most universities in Ghana, which is typically an aggregate of 24 or lower. Here’s an example calculation for candidate A, a general arts student:

Subject Grades:

• Social Studies: A1 (Excellent)
• English Language: B2 (Very Good)
• Mathematics (Core): B2 (Very Good)
• Integrated Science: B2 (Very Good)
• Literature in English: B3 (Good)
• History: A1 (Excellent)
• C. R. S: A1 (Excellent)
• French: B2 (Excellent)

How to calculate the aggregate score:

• Add up the three best core subjects: Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies (2+2+1 = 5).
• Add up the three best elective subjects: French, C.R.S, and History (2+1+1 = 4).

Candidate A ends up with an aggregate score of 9, which makes them eligible for admission into any university of their choice.

Cut-off point for University Admission 

Reputable government universities in Ghana, such as the University of Ghana, Legon, University Cape Coast, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, University of Education, and Winneba, place high importance on WASSCE performance for admission.

While private and technical universities may accept candidates with lower scores in specific courses, it’s important to note that some job opportunities may require you to provide your WASSCE results.

SOURCE: Coverghana.com.gh