Rules candidates must follow as 2026 exam season begins
The Kenya National Examinations Council has released strict guidelines for the 2026 national exam season, which involves 3.6 million candidates. The rules cover conduct, arrival times, and permitted materials for the KCSE, KPSEA, and KJSEA assessments.
Why it matters
Clear communication of examination protocols is essential for maintaining the integrity of national education systems and ensuring fairness for millions of students.
KNEC requires examination officials to ensure candidates sit the examinations and assessments in strict compliance with the prescribed rules and regulations. /AI ILLUSTRATION The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has outlined rules and guidelines that candidates must follow during this year's national examinations and assessments, warning of stern penalties for violations.
This year, KNEC is administering the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations and the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) and Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) to a record 3.6 million candidates.
KCSE oral and practical examinations began on October 19, while written papers are scheduled to run from November 2 to November 20, 2026.
The assessments will begin on Monday, October 26, and end on October 28 for KPSEA and October 30 for KJSEA.
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