The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued an important update on how Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) aggregates are calculated for the 2025 Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS). For many students and parents, understanding this calculation is the key to predicting school placement outcomes.
This guide will walk you through the 3 simple steps to calculate your BECE aggregate and help you understand what it means for your placement.
Step 1: Identify Your Core Subjects
Start with the four compulsory subjects:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Integrated Science
- Social Studies
Write down the grades you obtained in each.
Step 2: Add Your Best Two Other Subjects
From the remaining elective subjects, select your two best grades.
Ignore weaker ones — only your best two electives are added to the aggregate.
Step 3: Do the Math
Add the six subjects together using this formula:
English + Mathematics + Science + Social Studies + Best Two Subjects = Aggregate
Example:
- English – 2
- Mathematics – 1
- Integrated Science – 2
- Social Studies – 3
- ICT – 2
- BDT – 1
Total = 11 (Aggregate 11)
Lowest Possible Aggregate: 6
Highest Possible Aggregate: 54
The closer your aggregate is to 6, the better your chances of securing a top-choice school.
CSSPS 2025 Portal Now Live
GES has confirmed that the CSSPS portal is live until 8th September 2025. Students are encouraged to log in via the official portal: www.cssps.gov.gh to verify their school choices and ensure everything is accurate.
In case of discrepancies or concerns, candidates should use the “Message” option on the portal. A dedicated 24-hour CSSPS support team is on standby to provide assistance and ensure a smooth placement process.
Tip: Don’t panic if your aggregate isn’t very low. Placement also depends on your school selection, the level of competition, and available slots.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What if two students have the same aggregate?
When two or more students have the same aggregate, the placement system considers raw scores and subject performance to break the tie.
2. Can I change my school choices after submission?
Yes — but only while the CSSPS 2025 portal is live. After the 8th September deadline, no further changes can be made.
3. What happens if I miss the portal deadline?
If you miss the deadline, the system will use the school choices already submitted. No corrections will be allowed afterward.
4. Is placement only based on aggregate?
No. While aggregate is important, placement also considers available vacancies in schools, competition, and student preferences.
5. What is the best aggregate to get into a Category A school?
Generally, students with aggregates between 6 and 12 have the best chances at top-category schools, though competition is high.
