Each year, thousands of Nigerian students search for simple ways to check their WAEC results without going through the stress of buying a scratch card.
Some students lose their PINs, others live far from vendors, and many just want a quick and reliable option.
The good news is that WAEC now supports alternative methods that allow you to check your result directly on your phone without needing any scratch card.
Whether you’re using a basic phone or a smartphone, there are now simple ways to get your WAEC result using SMS or mobile USSD options.
Can I really check my WAEC result without using a scratch card?
Yes, you can. WAEC now allows candidates to check their results using two official methods that do not require a physical scratch card:
- SMS method (using your Smart Identity Card PIN)
- Mobile Money/USSD method (to buy and use a digital PIN instantly)
Both options are recognized by WAEC and can be done directly from any phone, whether Android, iPhone, or even a small button phone, as long as it supports SMS or USSD.
These methods are helpful especially for students in rural areas or those who cannot buy scratch cards immediately.
What is the SMS method to check WAEC result?
To use this method, you must have the PIN from your WAEC Smart Identity Card.
This PIN is usually issued to candidates by their school along with their exam number.
Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Open your SMS app
- Type: WAEC*ExamNumber*PIN*ExamYear
Example: WAEC*4250101001*123456789012*2025 - Send the message to 32327
You’ll receive an SMS reply with your result details, including your subjects and grades.
This service works on MTN, Airtel, and Glo networks. Make sure you have at least ₦30 airtime, which is charged for the SMS.
What if I don’t have a Smart Identity Card PIN?
If you don’t have access to your WAEC Smart ID Card or the PIN is missing, you can still check your result using a mobile money option.
This method allows you to buy a result checker PIN directly from your phone without going to any shop. You can use services like:
- Remita
- MTN MoMo
- Paga
- Quickteller
Once you’ve bought the PIN using USSD or the app, you can use it either via SMS (as explained above) or through the official WAEC result website at www.waecdirect.org.
Does this work on all phones?
Yes. Both SMS and USSD methods work on any phone that can send text messages or dial a USSD code.
You don’t need internet access or a smartphone to check your result using these options.
This is especially helpful for students in areas with limited internet access or no nearby cybercafés.
Can I check my WAEC result multiple times using the same PIN?
Yes, but only up to five times. WAEC allows each PIN (whether from scratch card or digital) to be used a maximum of five times.
After that, you’ll need to purchase a new one. So if you’re checking through both SMS and the website, be careful not to use up all your allowed attempts.
What if I don’t receive the SMS result reply?
Here are a few things to check:
- Make sure you typed the SMS in the correct format with no spaces.
- Confirm you have enough airtime (at least ₦30).
- Ensure you’re using a supported network (MTN, Airtel, or Glo).
- If there’s a delay, wait a few minutes before trying again.
- If you still get no reply, try buying a new PIN or using the web method.
If the issue continues, contact WAEC support through their official helplines or visit the nearest WAEC office.
Is this method safe and accepted for school admissions?
Yes. The SMS result you receive is directly from WAEC and contains your full name, exam number, subject grades, and exam year.
You can use this information to apply to universities, polytechnics, and colleges.
However, it is always best to print your official result slip later from the WAEC website when you’re ready to submit your documents to a school.