No maths, no english, no SHS after 2026 BECE: The strict CSSPS placement rules explained

If you are preparing to write the 2026 BECE, then you really need to pay attention to this information. It is very important for candidates, parents, teachers, and schools—especially when it comes to English Language and Mathematics.

Why English and Mathematics are very important

Every BECE candidate hopes to pass, but the truth is that not everyone will. Some students will get very good aggregates like 10 ones, while others may get as high as aggregate 54. However, no matter how good or bad your overall results are, failing Mathematics and/or English Language can completely block your future.

Getting a grade 9 in any other subject is not as serious as getting grade 9 in Maths or English. These two subjects are the main requirements for SHS placement and Free SHS. That is why all 2026 BECE candidates must first make sure they pass Mathematics and English Language.

After that, candidates must also pass Integrated Science and Social Studies. These four subjects are known as the core subjects, and passing them qualifies a student for SHS placement.

What happens if you fail Maths or English?

If a candidate gets grade 9 in Mathematics and/or English Language, there will be no school placement, and the candidate will not benefit from Free SHS.

In such a situation, the candidate has two options:

Resit the BECE one year later and pass the failed subject(s), or

Enroll in a private SHS, which comes with extra cost for parents.

Advice to parents and candidates

Parents should encourage their children to take their preparation seriously, especially in these four core subjects. When a candidate scores grades 1 to 3 in the core subjects, getting placement into a preferred school becomes much easier.

Good performance reduces stress for parents and avoids the pressure of self-placement or searching for schools after placement results are released.

BECE 2026 exam date

Parents should also take note that the 2026 BECE will start on Monday, 4th May, 2026, and will end on Monday, 11th May, 2026.

Teachers, schools, parents, and candidates are encouraged to use Education-News Consult BECE Mock questions and answers to support their revision. These materials are available on their online store and are designed to help candidates prepare well for the exams.

In short, passing Mathematics and English Language is non-negotiable. For every 2026 BECE candidate, these two subjects must be taken very seriously.