WAEC GCE Mathematics Syllabus 2025/2026
The 2025/2026 WAEC GCE Mathematics syllabus is designed to test candidates’ understanding of mathematical concepts, problem-solving skills, and logical reasoning. It covers core areas such as algebra, geometry, statistics, and trigonometry, with both objective and theory questions.
This syllabus applies to private candidates writing the General Certificate Examination (GCE). It reflects the senior secondary school curriculum and prepares students for higher education and real-world applications.
Syllabus Structure
The syllabus is divided into key sections:
1. Number and Numeration
- Number bases
- Fractions, decimals, percentages
- Indices and logarithms
- Surds and rational numbers
2. Algebraic Processes
- Algebraic expressions and simplification
- Linear and quadratic equations
- Inequalities and simultaneous equations
- Factorization and expansion
- Variation and word problems
3. Geometry and Mensuration
- Angles and polygons
- Plane shapes and solid figures
- Perimeter, area, and volume
- Circle theorems
- Coordinate geometry
4. Trigonometry
- Sine, cosine, and tangent ratios
- Trigonometric identities
- Heights and distances
- Graphs of trigonometric functions
5. Statistics and Probability
- Data collection and presentation
- Mean, median, mode, and range
- Bar charts, pie charts, histograms
- Probability theory and tree diagrams
6. Everyday Arithmetic
- Simple and compound interest
- Profit, loss, and discount
- Ratio, proportion, and rates
- Currency conversion and budgeting
Question Format
WAEC GCE Mathematics consists of:
- Paper 1: Objectives – 50 multiple-choice questions
- Paper 2: Theory – Structured and essay-type questions requiring detailed solutions
Each paper tests a mix of calculation, reasoning, and application.
Sample Questions & Answers
Objective Example:
What is the value of ( \sqrt{49} + 3^2 )?
- 16
- 18
- 20
- 22
Answer: B. 18
Explanation: ( \sqrt{49} = 7 ), ( 3^2 = 9 ), so ( 7 + 9 = 16 )
Theory Example:
Solve the quadratic equation ( x^2 – 5x + 6 = 0 )
Answer:
Factor: ( (x – 2)(x – 3) = 0 )
So, ( x = 2 ) or ( x = 3 )
Word Problem Example:
If a trader buys goods for ₦15,000 and sells them for ₦18,000, find the percentage profit.
Answer:
Profit = ₦3,000
Percentage profit = ( \frac{3000}{15000} \times 100 = 20% )
How to Prepare
- Study each topic using the WAEC-approved textbooks
- Practice past questions and timed mock exams
- Focus on problem-solving techniques and formula application
- Use graph paper and calculators where allowed