For BECE candidates and their parents, selecting the right seven schools is one of the most important steps toward securing a good SHS placement. Every year, thousands of students miss out on top choices simply because of avoidable mistakes in the selection process — wrong codes, poor category mix, or unclear understanding of GES rules.
This guide explains how to choose the best seven schools — and how using SHSselect.com can make the process easier and more accurate this year.
What Are the 7 Schools?
When completing the official GES school selection form, candidates must select:
- 5 main schools, ranked in order of preference
- 2 alternative schools, from a special list (Appendix 3), in case they are not placed in any of their 5 main choices
How to Choose the Best Schools
1. Understand the Category Rules
- You may select 1 school from Category A (usually the most competitive schools).
- You may select up to 2 schools from Category B.
- You can select up to 5 schools from Category C.
- You are allowed a maximum of 3 boarding schools across your 5 main choices.
2. Know Your Performance
Be realistic about your child’s BECE results and select schools where they have a strong chance of placement. Overreaching for all top-category schools can leave a student without any placement.
3. Confirm School Codes
One of the most common reasons for misplacement is using incorrect school codes. Double-check every code with your school or teacher.
4. Involve Parents and Guardians
Parents must be part of the process. They can guide students in making practical choices and help double-check for errors.
How SHSselect.com Helps
SHSselect.com is an online app that guides families through the correct selection of schools. It ensures that all GES rules are followed, helps confirm school codes, and allows users to download their selection as a PDF for review.
Using this tool reduces mistakes and gives families peace of mind that their selections are correct before submission. The app is paid, but it provides a simple, step-by-step guide that saves time and avoids costly errors.
Learn More: Watch This Video
For a clear video explanation of this year’s SHS selection process, watch:
Final Word
SHS selection is too important to leave to chance. With careful planning, informed decisions, and the right tools like SHSselect.com, every candidate can make the best possible choices this year.
Start early, involve your parents, follow GES rules — and avoid mistakes that can affect placement.
Source: GESHub.org
