GCE O/L Examination 2025(2026) Begins Today at 3,545 Centres Nationwide

The General Certificate of Education Ordinary Level (GCE O/L) Examination 2025 (2026) commenced today (February 17) across Sri Lanka, with more than 450,000 candidates sitting the nationwide examination.

The Department of Examinations announced that the GCE O/L Examination 2025 (2026) has begun today at 3,545 examination centres across the island.

A total of 451,463 candidates are sitting the examination this year, including 382,249 school candidates and 69,214 private candidates. To facilitate the smooth conduct of the exams, 531 coordination centres and 33 regional assembly centres have been established nationwide.

Authorities confirmed that extensive security measures have been implemented, with Sri Lanka Police and Sri Lanka Armed Forces personnel deployed at all examination centres. The Disaster Management Center has also been placed on standby to respond to any emergency situations.

Special examination facilities have been arranged in Ratmalana, Tangalle, Matara and Chilaw. In addition, dedicated centres have been set up at Watareka Suneetha Vidyalaya, Maharagama Apeksha Hospital and Kaithadi Nuffield Special School to accommodate candidates with special needs.

Candidates are required to present a valid National Identity Card, passport or driving licence for identification. The Department has strictly prohibited the use of mobile phones, smart devices, calculators, electronic equipment, notebooks or any unauthorised materials inside examination halls.

Applicants requiring special assistance were identified through a prior application and interview process, and appropriate arrangements were made after reviewing medical documentation.

The Department of Examinations urged all candidates to arrive at least one hour before the start of each paper and to strictly follow examination rules and instructions issued by supervising officers.