According to an official statement, all school principals have already been informed to advise students who intend to sit for the 2026 General Certificate of Education Ordinary Level (G.C.E. O/L) Examination, scheduled to be held in December 2026, to obtain their National Identity Cards in advance.
The department emphasized that applicants must ensure their NICs are prepared before the commencement of the application process for the examination. This requirement applies to both school candidates and private candidates.
The Department of Examinations further noted that obtaining a valid National Identity Card prior to submitting examination applications is the responsibility of all prospective candidates.
Officials stated that the measure is intended to facilitate the application process and improve the accuracy of candidate identification for national examinations.
