The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially released the 2025/2026 academic calendar for Form 3 students (SHS 3) in double track (transitional) Senior High Schools. This calendar provides a structured academic year specifically designed to ensure that final-year students receive adequate preparation time for the 2026 WASSCE, while maintaining a balanced schedule of in-school and holiday periods.
This article breaks down every important date and detail of the SHS 3 Transitional Academic Calendar, so students, teachers, and parents can plan ahead effectively.
Who Does This Calendar Apply To?
This calendar is specifically for:
- SHS 3 (Form 3) students in transitional/double track Senior High Schools across Ghana.
- Schools that are still operating the double track system to manage infrastructure and student population efficiently.
Key Academic Dates for Form 3 (Double Track)
First Semester (Term 1)
- Reporting Date / School Reopens:
Monday, 27th October 2025 - In-School Period:
27th October 2025 – 13th February 2026
Duration: 14 weeks - Break:
20th December 2025 – 4th January 2026 (Christmas Break)
Second Semester (Term 2)
- Resumption Date:
Saturday, 14th February 2026 - In-School Period:
14th February – 21st June 2026
Duration: 18 weeks
This includes intensive academic revision in preparation for WASSCE. - Easter Break:
1st – 8th April 2026
WASSCE 2026 Period for SHS 3 Students
- Exam Dates:
20th April – 20th June 2026
Students will write their final WASSCE exams during this period, as officially scheduled by GES and WAEC. - End of Academic Year for SHS 3:
21st June 2026 (immediately after WASSCE)
Summary Table – SHS 3 Transitional Calendar
| Term | In-School Dates | Weeks | Breaks | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | 27th Oct 2025 – 13th Feb 2026 | 14 weeks | 20th Dec – 4th Jan | Christmas break during first semester |
| Term 2 | 14th Feb – 21st June 2026 | 18 weeks | 1st – 8th April | Includes full WASSCE period |
Important Reminders for SHS 3 Students
- WASSCE preparation is a priority. The second semester includes revision time and exam weeks, so students must maximize study efforts from Day 1.
- No offsite learning is included in the Form 3 calendar — all 32 weeks are onsite to ensure maximum teacher-student engagement.
- Students should avoid unnecessary absences and remain committed throughout both semesters for a smooth and successful WASSCE experience.
- Easter and Christmas breaks are included but short, emphasizing how compact and exam-focused this academic year is.
GES Notes Related to SHS 3
- Reopening Week for SHS 3:
27th – 29th October 2025 - WASSCE Exam Window:
20th April – 20th June 2026 - Proposed Start of Next Academic Year (2026/2027):
11th September 2026
Conclusion
The 2025/2026 SHS 3 double track academic calendar is packed and focused on helping final-year students prepare thoroughly for their WASSCE. With 32 total weeks of in-school learning, limited breaks, and a clear exam schedule, the calendar offers a solid foundation for success.
Students are encouraged to take full advantage of the academic time available. Early preparation, consistent attendance, and time management are key to acing the WASSCE.
Stay focused. Stay ready. The final year is your launchpad to the future.
Published By: Justice Donkoh | GESHub.org
