The Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) is a very important exam in Ghana. It is the exam that helps Junior High School (JHS) students move on to Senior High School (SHS). Passing the BECE means you have more chances to attend a good senior high school and follow your dream career.
Preparing well for the BECE can reduce stress and help you do your best. In this article, we will look at practical tips and useful resources to help you succeed in the BECE.
📘 What is the BECE?
The BECE is an exam taken by JHS 3 students in Ghana. It is organised by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and covers subjects like:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Integrated Science
- Social Studies
- Religious and Moral Education
- ICT
- Ghanaian Language
- Basic Design and Technology (BDT)
- French (optional in some schools)
🧠 Tips to Help You Prepare for the BECE
1. Create a Study Timetable
Make a daily study plan that includes all your subjects. A timetable helps you organise your time and cover all topics before the exam. Make time to study for a few hours each day.
📌 Tip: Spend more time on subjects you find difficult.
2. Use Past Questions
Practice with past BECE questions from WAEC. They help you understand how questions are asked and what examiners expect. The truth is, examiners rarely set completely new questions. Most of the time, past questions are modified and reused. Using past questions also helps you to know the format and style most questions take. This is really one of the best ways to prepare for BECE.
There are many past question books with answers that will help you prepare. Try to buy at least one of such books for every subject, borrow it from a friend, download an app that contains it or download it online. To help you with that, here are the Top 10 educational apps for students in Ghana
📚 Get past papers from your school, bookshops, or download them from trusted websites.
3. Study with a Group
Studying with friends can help you understand difficult topics. You can quiz each other and explain things better. Be careful when joining study groups, as some can quickly become playful rather than helpful.
A study group should be at least three students, each with strengths in different subject areas. This ensures that each member of the team can contribute their knowledge or expertise in a subject area. If possible, have an adult or teacher supervise the study group, especially if it is of mixed sexes.
⚠️ Make sure your study group stays focused and does not turn into playtime.
📖 4. Extra Classes / Ask for Help
Extra classes can be a great way to get additional help before the BECE. They give you more time to go over topics you don’t fully understand in school or at home and allow teachers to give you personal attention. If your school or community offers extra classes, take advantage of them — but make sure you also get time to rest and revise on your own. Balance is key!
Be careful with ‘extra classes’ tutors if they are of a different gender. A parent or guardian should always be present to supervise; otherwise, classes should take place in the open/outside. There are frankly too many cases of teachers defiling students in the name of ‘extra classes’. An extra class should focus on subjects you are weakest in to help you improve.
If you cannot afford extra classes, ask for help from a friend. If you don’t understand a topic, ask your teacher, friend, or parent. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Honestly, you do not need extra classes to pass your BECE. It’s great if you can get one, but if not, you can pass very well just as I and countless others have done. How do you do it? Talk to friends in your class who you know do well in subjects you are not good at, and they will help you.
👨🏫 Teachers are there to help — make use of them.
5. Revise Regularly
Don’t wait until the last minute. Go over what you learn every week so it stays fresh in your mind.
📅 Create a weekly revision schedule.
6. Use Educational Apps and Online Resources
Many free learning platforms offer BECE lessons, quizzes, and video tutorials.
- YouTube: Channels like iLearn Ghana, Wolo TV, and e-learning Ghana
- Online platforms: eCampus, iCampusGH
- Mobile apps: uLesson, Khan Academy, and Brainly
📱 To help you with that, here are the Top 10 educational apps for students in Ghana Use data wisely — download videos when you’re on Wi-Fi.
7. Take Care of Your Health
You need energy to study. Get enough sleep, eat healthy food, and take breaks. Don’t study too much in one sitting. Don’t stay up all night studying, especially the day before the exam. Your brain will be foggy, or you may sleep during the exam!
🥦 Healthy food and good sleep help your brain work better.
8. Know the Exam Format
Each subject has its own style. Some have multiple choice, others have essay or practical sections. Know the format and practice each type.
✅ Practicing past papers helps you get familiar with the format.
📚 Useful BECE Study Resources
| Resource | What It Offers |
|---|---|
| WAEC Past Questions | Practice and know the types of questions asked |
| iCampusGH | Free BECE video lessons and quizzes |
| YouTube (e.g. Wolo TV) | BECE tutorials for all subjects |
| SHS Prospectus & Cut-Offs | Know what results you need to enter good SHSs |
| Teachers & Textbooks | Always a strong and reliable source of knowledge |
| BECE Revision Books | Books with notes, quizzes, and exam tips |
📝 Exam Day Tips
- Get enough sleep the night before.
- Wake up early and eat something light.
- Carry your pens, pencil, eraser, and ID card.
- Arrive at the centre early and stay calm.
- Read instructions carefully before answering.
💡 Don’t panic — trust your preparation.
🎯 Final Words
Preparing for the BECE takes time, discipline, and focus. Start early, study smart, and use the right resources. Whether you want to go to a top SHS or just do your best, preparation is the key.
Believe in yourself, work hard, and success will follow.
