As thousands of final year Junior High School (JHS) students across Ghana sit for the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), one question remains top of mind: How do I pass and pass well?
Whether you’re a student, a parent, or just someone rooting for these young dreamers, here’s a guide filled with winning strategies—because passing the BECE is not just about reading; it’s about reading right.
1. Study smart, not just hard
Cramming may seem like the answer, but structured study wins every time. Focus on past questions, identify frequently tested topics, and use the WAEC syllabus as your bible. Highlight keywords in questions—they often reveal what examiners really want.
2. Build a personal timetable and stick to it
Divide your time wisely among all nine subjects. Prioritise weak areas but don’t neglect strong ones. Use mornings for brain-tasking subjects like Maths and Science and evenings for reading-based subjects like English and Social Studies.
3. Join group discussions but avoid noise groups
Study groups can help clarify confusing topics. However, steer clear of noisy, unproductive ones. A good group should cover specific topics, share short notes, and test each other regularly.
4. Solve past questions under timed conditions
Get familiar with the exam format and time pressure by doing at least five years’ worth of past papers. Write them as mock exams to build confidence. Practise neatness and clarity—examiners love clean, well-labelled work.
5. Seek help from teachers and mentors
When a topic seems confusing, ask for help. Teachers are there to guide you. Don’t wait till the last week to admit you’re struggling with fractions or tenses. That help today could be your “grade 1” tomorrow.
6. Limit distractions—especially your phone
If you’re on TikTok more than your textbooks, we have a problem. Put your phone aside during study times. If you must use it, let it be for educational videos or apps like uLesson, Khan Academy, or YouTube Edu.
7. Stay healthy in mind and body
Eat well, stay hydrated, and sleep at least 6–8 hours. Avoid “all-night” studies just before papers—they’ll only drain you. A healthy brain is a high-performing brain.
8. Master how to read comprehension and understand instructions
Many students lose marks by misreading questions. Read every instruction twice. In English and Social Studies especially, comprehension skills can be the difference between grade 2 and grade 1.
9. Remain prayerful and positive
Ghanaian students know this truth: learning is key, but prayer is power. Don’t underestimate the calm confidence that comes from faith. Stay hopeful, not fearful. Speak positive words over yourself—“I will pass!” isn’t just motivation; it’s mindset.
 students across Ghana sit for the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE)){kind=link}