WAEC GCE 2025/2026 Mathematics Syllabus PDF (Download Free)

Introduction: Understanding the WAEC GCE 2025/2026 Mathematics Syllabus

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) conducts one of the most important exams for students in Nigeria and other West African countries: the General Certificate of Education (GCE). The Mathematics exam is a major component of the WAEC GCE, and it is crucial for students who wish to pursue higher education or further their careers in science, engineering, economics, and many other fields. For the 2025/2026 academic session, the syllabus has been updated to reflect modern trends and ensure that students are well-prepared.

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the WAEC GCE 2025/2026 Mathematics syllabus. From understanding the key topics to learning how to use the syllabus for effective study, this guide will help you prepare better and increase your chances of success.

What is the WAEC GCE Mathematics Syllabus?

The WAEC GCE Mathematics syllabus serves as an official document detailing all the topics, units, and skills students must master before taking the exam. It ensures that students understand the scope of the Mathematics paper and guides them on what they are expected to learn. The syllabus is structured into sections that cover the full range of mathematical concepts, from algebra to trigonometry and geometry.

The Mathematics syllabus for the 2025/2026 academic year is designed to ensure that students not only understand mathematical concepts but also develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary to succeed in their future studies and careers.

Structure of the WAEC GCE Mathematics Exam 2025/2026

What to Expect in the Mathematics Exam

The WAEC GCE Mathematics exam is typically divided into two main parts:

1. Theory Paper:

The theory paper evaluates the student’s understanding of various mathematical concepts and their ability to solve problems. It consists of questions that test both theoretical knowledge and practical application.

Key Components of the Theory Paper:

Algebra: Includes topics like quadratic equations, polynomials, and indices.
Geometry: Involves concepts related to angles, triangles, and circles.
Trigonometry: Focuses on the study of angles, ratios, and trigonometric functions.
Calculus: The study of rates of change, limits, and derivatives.
Statistics and Probability: Involves data analysis, interpretation, and the calculation of probabilities.

2. Practical Paper (Optional):

The practical paper is typically only offered in advanced mathematics subjects such as Statistics. Students may be asked to apply mathematical tools and concepts to solve real-world problems or conduct mathematical experiments.

Key Components of the Practical Paper:

Data Interpretation: Analyzing data from experiments and making conclusions.
Problem Solving: Applying learned mathematical concepts to new scenarios.

Key Topics in the WAEC GCE 2025/2026 Mathematics Syllabus

The syllabus is divided into major topics that every student must learn to be fully prepared for the exam. Below are the key topics you will encounter:

1. Algebra

Operations on polynomials
Quadratic equations: Solving by factoring, completing the square, and using the quadratic formula.
Indices and logarithms: Laws of exponents and applications of logarithms.
Linear equations and inequalities: Solving and graphing equations, understanding solution sets.

Key Concepts:

Solving equations (Linear, Quadratic, Cubic)
Factorization of polynomials
Rational expressions and their simplification

2. Geometry

Angles and their properties: Understanding types of angles (acute, obtuse, reflex).
Triangles and congruence: Properties of different types of triangles and their application.
Circles: Properties and theorems related to circles, including tangents, chords, and arcs.
Coordinate geometry: The study of geometric shapes using algebra and graphs.

Key Concepts:

Theorems of angles in a triangle
Pythagoras Theorem: Applying the theorem in solving triangle problems.
Area and perimeter of shapes like squares, rectangles, and circles.

3. Trigonometry

Sine, Cosine, and Tangent: Understanding and applying trigonometric ratios.
Trigonometric identities: Simplification and application of identities.
Solving trigonometric equations: Using inverse trigonometric functions to solve problems.

Key Concepts:

Angle of elevation and angle of depression
Trigonometric tables and calculator use
Solving real-world problems using trigonometry

4. Calculus

Limits and continuity: The foundational concepts for understanding calculus.
Differentiation: Derivatives, rate of change, and applications in finding maxima and minima.
Integration: Finding areas under curves and solving definite integrals.

Key Concepts:

Differentiation rules: Product, quotient, and chain rule.
Applications of derivatives in motion and growth rates.

5. Statistics and Probability

Descriptive Statistics: Mean, median, mode, variance, and standard deviation.
Probability: Calculating the likelihood of events, including permutations and combinations.
Sampling methods: Techniques used to draw conclusions from sample data.

Key Concepts:

Data analysis using graphs (bar charts, histograms, pie charts)
Permutations and combinations for probability problems
Bayes’ Theorem and its applications in conditional probability

How to Use the WAEC GCE Mathematics Syllabus for Study

1. Download the Latest Syllabus PDF

The first step in preparing for the WAEC GCE Mathematics exam is to download the latest syllabus PDF. You can get the syllabus from the official WAEC website or from various trusted educational platforms. It is essential to study the syllabus to understand the topics covered and to set realistic study goals.

2. Create a Study Plan

Once you have the syllabus, it’s important to organize your study time. Here’s how you can plan your study:

Divide the syllabus into topics that can be studied over time.
Set realistic goals: For example, set a goal to cover algebra in one week and trigonometry the next.
Allocate time for each section: Prioritize difficult topics and review easier ones regularly.

3. Use Practice Questions

Practice is key to mastering mathematics. Once you have studied a topic, try solving past WAEC GCE Mathematics questions related to that topic. This will help you become familiar with the format and types of questions that appear in the exam.

4. Review Regularly

Mathematics requires continuous practice. Make sure to regularly review past topics, especially the complex areas like calculus or statistics. Set aside time each week to revisit previous topics and consolidate your understanding.

5. Join Study Groups

Study groups allow you to share ideas and discuss problems with others. If you don’t understand a topic, asking your peers for help can provide a new perspective. Additionally, explaining a concept to someone else is a great way to reinforce your own understanding.

6. Use Online Resources

In addition to textbooks, there are many online platforms that offer tutorials, video lessons, and practice questions. Websites like Khan Academy, Coursera, and YouTube offer free math tutorials that can help clarify difficult topics.

Sample Questions from the WAEC GCE Mathematics Syllabus

To help you understand what the exam might look like, here are a few sample questions based on the syllabus.

1. Algebra

Solve the quadratic equation: $3\times2-5x+2=03x^2 - 5x + 2 = 0$ .
Factorize the expression: $x2-9x^2 - 9$ .

2. Geometry

In triangle $ABCABC$ , $∠ABC=90∘\angle ABC = 90^\circ$ and $∠ACB=45∘\angle ACB = 45^\circ$ . Find $∠BAC\angle BAC$ .
Find the area of a circle with a radius of 7 cm.

3. Trigonometry

If $sin⁡θ=35\sin \theta = \frac{3}{5}$ , find $cos⁡θ\cos \theta$ .
Solve for $xx$ in the equation $2sin⁡x+1=02\sin x + 1 = 0$ , for $xx$ in degrees.

4. Calculus

Differentiate $f(x)=3\times2+5x-2f(x) = 3x^2 + 5x - 2$ with respect to $xx$ .
Find the integral of

$f(x)=2x+3f(x) = 2x + 3$ .

5. Statistics and Probability

A die is rolled 100 times, and the number 6 appears 18 times. Find the experimental probability of rolling a 6.
Find the mean of the following data: 5, 9, 13, 7, 15.

Summary Table: Key Topics in WAEC GCE 2025/2026 Mathematics

Topic	Sub-Topics
Algebra	Polynomials, Quadratic Equations, Indices, Linear Equations
Geometry	Angles, Triangles, Circles, Coordinate Geometry
Trigonometry	Sine, Cosine, Tangent, Trigonometric Identities
Calculus	Limits, Differentiation, Integration
Statistics & Probability	Data Analysis, Probability, Sampling Methods

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When will the WAEC GCE 2025/2026 Mathematics exam take place?

The dates for the WAEC GCE 2025/2026 Mathematics exam will be announced closer to the exam year.

2. Where can I download the WAEC GCE Mathematics syllabus?

You can download the syllabus from the official WAEC website or from educational platforms.

3. How many questions are in the WAEC GCE Mathematics exam?

The exam usually consists of 40-60 questions, depending on the year and the structure of the exam.

4. Can I pass the WAEC GCE Mathematics exam with just one month of preparation?

One month may be enough if you study diligently, especially by focusing on key topics and practicing past questions.

5. What are the best books for WAEC GCE Mathematics preparation?

Some recommended books include WAEC Mathematics Past Questions, Mathematics for Senior Secondary School, and Mathematics for WAEC GCE.

6. What is the passing mark for WAEC GCE Mathematics?

A minimum of C6 is required for a pass in WAEC Mathematics.

7. Can I download the syllabus for free?

Yes, the WAEC GCE syllabus is available for free on various educational websites.

8. How do I calculate the probability in WAEC GCE Mathematics?

Probability is calculated by dividing the number of favorable outcomes by the total number of outcomes.

9. Should I use a calculator during the exam?

Yes, but make sure to familiarize yourself with WAEC-approved calculators.

10. Can I use the syllabus to prepare for both the theory and practical papers?

Yes, the syllabus covers both aspects of the exam. Make sure to study both theoretical and practical components.

Conclusion

The WAEC GCE Mathematics syllabus for the 2025/2026 session is a valuable tool for every student preparing for the exam. By thoroughly studying the syllabus, practicing past questions, and using this article as a guide, you can enhance your chances of success.

Remember, consistent practice and time management are key. Download the syllabus, plan your study time, and start practicing early to increase your confidence and performance in the exam. Best of luck with your preparation!