How to Combine WAEC and NECO Results for University Admission in Nigeria

Amina sat on the edge of her bed, clutching her WAEC result in one hand and her NECO result in the other. One had the grades she hoped for, while the other fell short. Her dream of studying at a federal university felt like it was slipping away. But then, she heard something that sparked hope: “You can actually combine WAEC and NECO results for university admission.”

If you’ve found yourself in Amina’s shoes, you’re not alone. Many Nigerian students face similar challenges, especially when one exam doesn’t go as planned. But the good news is—you can still achieve your university dreams by combining both results, legally and effectively.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about how to combine WAEC and NECO results for university admission in Nigeria. Let’s walk you through it step by step.

What Are WAEC and NECO?

WAEC (West African Examinations Council) and NECO (National Examinations Council) are the two main senior secondary school exam bodies in Nigeria.

• WAEC is often considered more popular and internationally recognized.
• NECO is a Nigerian examination body tailored for local institutions.

Both exams cover similar subjects and serve the same purpose: qualifying students for tertiary education.

Why Students Combine WAEC and NECO Results

Here are the most common reasons why students combine both:

• To make up for poor grades in either WAEC or NECO.
• To meet subject requirements for specific university courses.
• To avoid rewriting one of the exams.

Combining results is a strategic way to strengthen your university application.

Is It Legal to Combine WAEC and NECO Results?

Yes, it is completely legal and accepted by many Nigerian universities.

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and most tertiary institutions allow candidates to combine two different O’level results. However, the condition is that you must not combine more than two sittings.

This could be:

• WAEC + WAEC
• NECO + NECO
• WAEC + NECO

Schools That Accept Combined Results

Many federal, state, and private universities accept combined results, including:

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)
• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU Zaria)
• University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
• Lagos State University (LASU)

Tip: Always check the university’s official website or JAMB brochure for confirmation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Combining WAEC and NECO Results

1. Gather both results. Ensure they are complete and have valid grades in required subjects.
2. Verify subject alignment. Your combined results must cover all required subjects for your intended course.
3. Make clean copies. Both original and photocopies will be needed.
4. Input them correctly in your JAMB profile. During UTME registration or Direct Entry.
5. Attach both results to your university application. Upload scanned copies if applying online.

Requirements for Combined Results Admission

To be eligible, you must:

• Have a minimum of 5 credits (including English and Mathematics).
• Ensure all required subjects are present across both results.
• Combine results from not more than two sittings.

Mistakes to Avoid When Combining Results

• Mixing up subjects: Ensure your required subjects are complete across both results.
• Wrong exam numbers or dates: Always double-check your input.
• Using more than two sittings: Not accepted by most universities.

Sample Scenarios (Case Studies)

Case Study 1: Sarah Wants to Study Medicine

• WAEC: Credit in Biology, Physics, English, but F9 in Chemistry.
• NECO: Credit in Chemistry, Math, Economics.

By combining both, Sarah meets the admission requirements for Medicine.

Case Study 2: Emeka Aiming for Law

• NECO: Distinction in English, Literature.
• WAEC: Pass in Civic, Government.

He uses both results to meet subject requirements for Law.

How to Present Your Combined Results During Application

If you’re applying online (e.g., JAMB CAPS or university portals):

• Choose “two sittings” during registration.
• Input WAEC and NECO details accordingly.
• Upload scanned copies (PDF or JPG format).

For physical applications:

• Attach photocopies of both results.
• Clearly label each with exam type and year.

Online Application Process Explained

When registering on JAMB CAPS or Post-UTME portals:

• Select “two sittings”
• Enter details such as:
  • Exam type (WAEC/NECO)
  • Exam year
  • Center number
  • Candidate number
• Upload the result document for each sitting

How JAMB Handles Combined Results

JAMB allows for two sittings during UTME or Direct Entry registration. Ensure that the subject combinations across both results meet your chosen course requirements.

Their system automatically evaluates the entries and considers the best combination for each subject.

Universities With Flexible Result Policies in Nigeria

These schools are known for being flexible with combined results:

• Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK)
• Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)
• University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
• Rivers State University (RSU)

Some private universities also accept combined results without issue.

What If One Result Is More Than 5 Years Old?

Most universities do not reject older results, especially if:

• The document is clear and verifiable
• The subjects are still relevant

However, some competitive programs may prefer recent sittings.

Tip: Always check with the university’s admission office for age limits on results.

Expert Tips for Boosting Admission Chances

• Aim for distinctions in at least two core subjects
• Participate in Post-UTME tutorials or coaching
• Get a good UTME score to back up your result
• Make sure your subject combinations match your chosen course
• Don’t forget to upload both results on the JAMB portal

Final Thoughts

Combining WAEC and NECO results is not only possible but a smart move if done right. Nigerian universities understand that students may have strengths in different subjects across both exams.

Use this flexibility to your advantage, just like Amina did. She later gained admission to study Microbiology at UNILAG. You can too.

Now that you understand how to combine WAEC and NECO results for university admission in Nigeria, it’s time to take action.

FAQs About Combining WAEC and NECO Results

Can I combine WAEC and NECO for admission into UNILAG?

Yes, UNILAG accepts combined results as long as they are not more than two sittings.

Is it better to combine WAEC and NECO or rewrite one?

It depends. If you meet the subject requirements by combining, you can proceed without rewriting.

Will JAMB accept combined WAEC and NECO results?

Absolutely. JAMB provides options for candidates to input two sittings.

Do all Nigerian universities accept WAEC and NECO combination?

Most do, but it’s wise to verify with the specific institution.

Can I combine WAEC and GCE instead?

Yes, WAEC and GCE can be combined. The key is that they are not more than two sittings.