Key takeaways
- WAEC holds results temporarily to investigate possible malpractice.
- Common causes include malpractice, cheating, or irregularities at the exam centre.
- After review, results may be released or cancelled.
Sometimes, BECE results come with the notice “Results Withheld.” Here’s what it means, why it happens, and what steps you can take.
WAEC result statuses
First, let’s look at all the statuses that can appear on your results slip. When WAEC releases BECE results, not every student sees their grades immediately. Some results may show:
#1 – Withheld results
This means that WAEC has temporarily suspended the release of your results while it investigates possible malpractice. After investigations, results may be released, some subjects may be cancelled, or the entire results may be cancelled.
#2 – Pending results
These issues are often caused by administrative or technical problems, such as incorrect candidate details, fee issues, or delays in processing. Once the issue is resolved, the results are uploaded and released.
#3 – Cancelled results
Issued when WAEC has confirmed proven malpractice. The results for that subject, or in extreme cases, all subjects, are permanently cancelled.
Reasons why your BECE results are withheld
When your results are marked as withheld, the common causes include examination malpractice. Cases include copying, using unauthorised materials such as mobile phones, notes, or textbooks, and impersonation.
Another popular reason is irregularities at examination centres. WAEC may withhold results for an entire school or centre if there is evidence of mass cheating, invigilator negligence or misconduct, or suspiciously similar answer patterns.
Withheld results do not automatically mean cancelled, so don’t worry too much. They mean WAEC is investigating. After the process:
- Results may be released in full if no wrongdoing is found.
- Specific subjects may be cancelled if malpractice is confirmed in those areas.
- In severe cases, WAEC may cancel results for a candidate or the entire examination centre.
What to do if your results are withheld?
If you find yourself in this situation:
- Stay calm; many withheld results are eventually released later.
- Wait for official communication from WAEC.
- Follow up through your school’s headteacher or exam officer, who receives official updates directly from WAEC.
How to avoid having your results withheld?
You can reduce the risk of your BECE being withheld by:
- Following exam rules and avoiding unauthorised materials.
- Paying attention to the invigilator’s instructions.
- Preparing thoroughly to avoid the temptation to cheat.
- Ensuring schools submit accurate candidate details and properly handle scripts.
FAQs
How long does WAEC take to release withheld results?
It varies, depending on the case. Some are cleared in weeks, while others may take months.
Can my withheld BECE results affect my school placement?
Yes, withheld results can delay or prevent placement into senior high school.
Can a whole school’s results be withheld?
Yes, a whole school’s results can be withheld. If WAEC suspects mass malpractice at a centre, results for all candidates may be withheld.
Conclusion
The best way to protect your results is to follow the rules and prepare diligently.
Exams don’t just test knowledge; they also test integrity. If you study well and stay true to the rules, you won’t need to worry. Your results will reflect your hard work.
Share your questions with us in the comments.
