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Ikiodiete George
- 2 Min Read
Waec Scoring System For Mathematics: An Updated Guide (2025/2026)
WAEC Mathematics is one of the most feared and misunderstood subjects by students. But here's a secret: once you understand the WAEC Mathematics scoring system, you'll know exactly where to focus your energy and how to answer questions to earn high marks.
This guide will show you how WAEC marks Paper 1 and Paper 2, how many questions you should answer, and how your score is converted into your final grade.
WAEC Mathematics Exam Structure (2025/2026)
WAEC Mathematics is divided into two main papers:
| Paper | Type | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Objective (Multiple Choice) | 50 marks | 1 hour 30 mins |
| Paper 2 | Essay/Theory (Structured questions) | 100 marks | 2 hours 30 mins |
| Total | 150 marks |
WAEC Mathematics Paper 1 – Objective Section
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Consists of 50 multiple-choice questions.
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Each question carries 1 mark.
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Topics include algebra, geometry, number, statistics, and trigonometry.
Sample Question Breakdown:
| Topic | Approx. No. of Questions |
|---|---|
| Algebra | 8–10 |
| Geometry & Mensuration | 8–10 |
| Number & Numeracy | 8–10 |
| Trigonometry | 5–7 |
| Statistics & Graphs | 5–7 |
| Others (e.g. Logic) | 5–7 |
| Total | 50 Questions |
Tip: There is no negative marking, so attempt all questions.
WAEC Mathematics Paper 2 – Essay Section
This paper has two sections:
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Section A: Compulsory (Answer all questions)
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Section B: Optional (Answer any 4 out of 6–7 questions)
Marking Guide:
| Section | Questions to Answer | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section A | 5 (Compulsory) | 10 marks each | 50 marks |
| Section B | 4 (Choose 4 out of 6–7) | 12.5 marks each | 50 marks |
| Total | 9 Questions | 100 marks |
WAEC Mathematics Grade Calculation
After marking both papers, the raw score (out of 150) is converted to a percentage and then assigned a grade based on WAEC’s grading scale.
WAEC Mathematics Grading Table:
| Score Range (in %) | Grade | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| 75 – 100 | A1 | Excellent |
| 70 – 74 | B2 | Very Good |
| 65 – 69 | B3 | Good |
| 60 – 64 | C4 | Credit |
| 55 – 59 | C5 | Credit |
| 50 – 54 | C6 | Credit |
| 45 – 49 | D7 | Pass |
| 40 – 44 | E8 | Pass |
| 0 – 39 | F9 | Fail |
For most university admissions in Nigeria, a minimum of C6 in Mathematics is required.
Example: How WAEC Calculates Your Math Score
Let’s say you got:
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35/50 in Paper 1
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70/100 in Paper 2
Total Raw Score = 35 + 70 = 105/150
Percentage = (105 ÷ 150) × 100 = 70%
Grade = B2 (Very Good)
How to Score High in WAEC Mathematics
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Master past questions – Practice with the marking scheme.
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Understand the steps – WAEC awards marks for process, not just final answers.
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Show your workings – In Paper 2, always show how you arrived at the answer.
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Avoid leaving blanks – Even if unsure, write something.
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Time management – Don’t spend too long on any one question.
WAEC Mathematics Scoring – FAQs
Q1: Is it possible to pass WAEC Math without getting all answers correct?
A: Yes! WAEC gives partial marks for correct steps in Paper 2, even if your final answer is wrong.
Q2: Is the theory part more important than the objectives?
A: Both are important, but Paper 2 carries more marks (100/150).
Q3: Can I use calculator in the exam?
A: Yes, scientific calculators are allowed, but ensure you know how to use them properly.
Q4: What’s the best way to prepare?
A: Practice consistently with WAEC past questions, especially the theory part.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the WAEC Mathematics scoring system is a powerful strategy. Now you know that Paper 2 is where most marks lie, so work on solving and presenting your steps neatly. Practice under timed conditions and review your mistakes.
