Basic schools reopen on September 8 as GES releases 2026/27 academic calendar
Basic schools across Ghana are expected to reopen on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, for the start of the 2026/2027 academic year, barring any unforeseen changes.
The academic calendar released by the Ghana Education Service (GES) indicates that kindergarten, primary and junior high school students will spend 15 weeks in the first term.
Students will observe a two-day mid-term break on November 5 and 6, 2026, before the term ends on December 17.
The Christmas vacation will run from December 18, 2026, to January 4, 2027, with the second term beginning on January 5, 2027.
The second term will run for 12 weeks and end on March 25, 2027. Students will then proceed on vacation from March 26 to April 19, 2027.
The third term will commence on April 20, 2027, and run for 14 weeks, ending on July 22. The long vacation will begin on July 23, 2027.
The 2027 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) is scheduled to take place from May 5 to May 12, 2027.
The GES also reminded stakeholders that public holidays falling within the academic year will be observed accordingly. A two-day mid-term break will also be observed in each term.
Heads of schools, teachers, parents and guardians have been urged to take note of the academic calendar and make the necessary preparations for a smooth school year.
SHS Academic Calendar
For second-cycle institutions, the 2026/2027 academic year will begin at different times depending on the form and school structure.
Form One and Form Two students in Single Track schools are scheduled to begin classes on September 18, 2026, and complete the academic year on July 30, 2027.
Form Three students in both Single Track and Transitional schools are expected to complete their academic year on June 18, 2027.
The 2027 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) is scheduled for April 6 to June 18, 2027.
The calendar further indicates that Transitional schools will maintain a blended learning arrangement, combining face-to-face classroom instruction with periods of online learning.
Students will also have a Christmas break from December 19, 2026, to January 4, 2027, while the Easter break is scheduled for March 25 to March 30, 2027.
Form Two students will additionally have a mid-semester break from June 17 to June 20, 2027.