As we approach the 2024 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) school selection, it’s crucial for candidates and their guardians to understand the new policy guidelines. Here’s a detailed briefing to help you navigate the process smoothly.
Categories of Schools
For the 2024 BECE, public second cycle institutions have been categorized into four groups:
- Category A: Overly Subscribed Schools
- Category B: Averagely Subscribed Schools
- Category C: Under Subscribed Schools
- Category D: All Catchment Area Day Schools
Number of Schools per Category:
| SN | CATEGORY | NO. OF SCHOOLS |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Category A | 93 |
| 2 | Category B | 260 |
| 3 | Category C | 585 |
| 4 | Category D | 938 |
| TOTAL | 938 |
Breakdown of Schools by Type
| SN | CATEGORIES | SHS | SHTS | TVET | TOTAL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Category A | 54 | 5 | 34 | 93 |
| 2 | Category B | 178 | 50 | 32 | 260 |
| 3 | Category C | 282 | 140 | 163 | 585 |
| TOTAL | 514 | 195 | 229 | 938 |
Selection and Placement Guidelines
Subjects for Selection: Candidates are assessed based on six subjects:
- Core Subjects: English, Mathematics, Integrated Science, Social Studies
- Electives: Computing, French, BDT, RME, Ghanaian Language
Selection Process:
- Selection of Schools: Candidates must select and rank six (6) schools in order of preference.
- Programmes and Residential Preferences: Specify preferred programmes and residential options.
- Compulsory Day School: The 6th choice must be a day school within 16km of the JHS attended or a boarding school from Appendix 3.
Cluster Choices:
- Select one (1) school from Category A, two (2) schools from Category B, and at least two (2) schools from Category C as alternatives.
- Schools in the main choices must not be repeated in the cluster choices.
Specific Options:
- TVET Programmes: All six (6) choices can be from TVET institutions in Categories A, B, and C.
- STEM/Science Programmes: All six (6) choices should be from Category A, B, or C as Day or Boarding.
Selection Guidelines
- Category A: No more than one (1) school
- Category B: No more than two (2) schools
- Category C: Up to five (5) schools
- Category D: One (1) Day school or special boarding from Appendix 3
Mode of Selection
- School Candidates: Submit choices to district education offices through JHS heads.
- Private Candidates: Select schools online via WAEC Internet Solution. Dates will be announced when the portal is ready.
- Foreign Students: Purchase and submit the foreign students application form to GES headquarters, Accra.
Placement Procedure
- Merit-Based Placement: Schools and programmes are linked based on merit. In case of a tie, raw scores are compared.
- Self Placement Module: Candidates who are not placed initially can use the Self Placement Module on [CSSPS Portal](www.cssps.gov.gh or www.cssps.org) to choose from available schools.
30% Public JHS Allocation
- Reserved Seats: 30% of vacancies in Category A schools are reserved for candidates from Public JHS. This is automatic and requires candidates to select Category A schools.
Catchment Area Day Schools (Category D)
- Criteria: Schools must be day or day/boarding within a 16km radius of the candidate’s JHS.
This comprehensive guide should assist candidates and their families in making informed choices for the 2024 BECE school selection. Ensure you adhere to the guidelines and deadlines to secure a place in your preferred school.
For any further assistance or clarification, feel free to reach out to your school’s guidance office or visit the official CSSPS website. Good luck with your selection!
