KCSE Exams 2025 Kick Off Marking Start of National Assessment Season
The KCSE exams 2025 have officially begun across the country, marking the start of Kenya’s national examination season. More than 960,000 candidates are sitting for the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) tests, starting with oral papers for foreign and sign languages.
Oral and Practical Exams Begin
The oral exams include German, French, Arabic, and Kenyan Sign Language. These will be followed by practical examinations scheduled from October 22 to October 31. Written papers are expected to begin on November 4 and conclude on November 21, 2025.
Education officials have emphasized the importance of a smooth start, noting that early stages often set the tone for the rest of the examination period.
KPSEA and KJSEA to Follow
After the KCSE, officials will concurrently conduct KPSEA and KJSEA. They will run from October 27 to 29. Rehearsals will take place on October 24.
These assessments form part of Kenya’s new Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) transition process, designed to evaluate learners’ skills and understanding at primary and junior secondary levels.
Over 3.4 Million Candidates Registered
KNEC Chief Executive Officer David Njengere announced that 996,078 students had registered for KCSE exams 2025. He added that 1,130,669 learners will sit for KJSEA. 1,298,089 learners registered for KPSEA.
“In total, 3,424,836 candidates will undertake national examinations and assessments this year,” Njengere said, confirming that field administration began on October 17 and runs through November 21.
Enhanced Security and Integrity Measures
To curb examination malpractice, the Ministry of Education has installed 25 new secure storage containers, raising the total number to 642 nationwide. Njengere noted that this move builds on efforts to prevent early exposure of examination papers.
Additionally, the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) have deployed vetted invigilators and supervisors. They work to uphold integrity throughout the entire examination administration process.
Each KCSE examination centre will have at least two police officers to ensure a secure and fair environment for candidates.
Government Assures Smooth Examination Season
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to credible and transparent national exams. Results from the 2025 KCSE and other assessments will guide placement into tertiary institutions and support the continued rollout of the CBC system.
