WAEC Syllabus for Physics 2026

The WAEC Syllabus for Physics 2026 serves as the definitive roadmap for candidates preparing for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in Physics.

Designed to assess candidates' understanding of fundamental physics principles, the syllabus outlines important topics such as mechanics, waves, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, and modern physics.

It also emphasises practical skills, including experimental analysis and problem solving. For students aiming to excel, mastering this syllabus is non negotiable. Whether you are a school candidate or a private GCE candidate, the WAEC Physics syllabus provides the structure needed to focus your study efforts effectively and achieve success.

Aims and Objectives

Acquire a proper understanding of the basic principles and applications of Physics.
Develop scientific skills and attitudes as prerequisites for further scientific activities.
Recognise the usefulness, and limitations of the scientific method to appreciate its applicability in other disciplines and in everyday life.
Develop abilities, attitudes and skills that encourage efficient and safe practice;
Develop scientific attitudes such as accuracy, precision, objectivity, integrity, initiative and inventiveness.

Examination Scheme

There will be three papers, Papers 1, 2 and 3, all of which must be taken. Papers 1 and 2 will be a composite paper to be taken at one sitting.

PAPER 1: Will consist of fifty multiple choice questions lasting 1¼ hours and carrying 50 marks.

PAPER 2: Will consist of two sections, Sections A and B lasting1½ hours and carrying 60 marks.

Section A: Will comprise seven short, structured questions. Candidates will be required to answer any five questions for a total of 15 marks.

Section B: Will comprise five essay questions, out of which candidates will be required to answer any three for 45 marks.

PAPER 3: Will be a practical test for school candidates or an alternative to the practical work paper for private candidates. Each version of the paper will comprise three questions, out of which candidates will be required to answer any two in 2¾ hours for 50 marks.

NOTE: Candidates must be involved in practical activities to cover this syllabus. Candidates will be expected to answer questions on the topics set in the column headed ‘ TOPIC’.

The ‘NOTES’ are intended to indicate the scope of the questions which will be set, but they are not to be considered as an exhaustive list of limitations and illustrations.