KNEC Publishes KCSE Timetable for 2026 Academic Year

The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has released the timetable for the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams for students sitting in the 2026 academic year.

According to the timetable, the examinations will begin on Monday, October 19, 2026, starting with students taking French (oral), German (oral), Arabic (oral), Kenyan Sign Language, and Music (practical).

These will be followed by the Practical Planning Session for Home Science (Foods and Nutrition), including both Large Print and Braille versions. The practical exams are scheduled for Wednesday, October 21, 2026, marking the end of the first week of examinations.

2026 KCSE Examination Schedule

The examination season will officially conclude on Friday, November 20, 2026, with the Physics Practical.

Also Read: KNEC Issues Notice on 2025 KCSE Result Slips Collection

Among the major compulsory and optional subjects that will be examined are Mathematics, English, Kiswahili, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Business Studies, Computer Studies, Agriculture, Geography, History and Government, and CRE.

The 2026 KCSE examination shedule is as follows:

Guidelines to be Followed During Examination Period

Besides releasing the examination timetable, the Kenya National Examinations Council has also issued guidelines for teachers and students to follow during the examination period.

The council directed teachers to ensure that candidates carefully read and understand all examination instructions and are aware of the penalties for any form of examination irregularities or misconduct.

During the examination period, Candidates have been advised to arrive early and be seated at least 15 minutes before the start of each paper, with the first session beginning at 8:00 a.m. and the second at 2:00 p.m. They are required to check that they have the correct question paper, read all instructions carefully, and ensure their personal details, including name and index number, are correctly written on the answer booklet.

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KNEC further instructed candidates to write their answers in blue or black ink, clearly number their responses, and manage their time well during the examination. They must stop writing immediately when instructed and hand over their answer scripts to the supervisor.

The council also warned candidates against any form of examination malpractice. Communication between candidates during the exam is strictly prohibited, and unauthorized materials such as books, notes, or electronic devices are not allowed in examination rooms. Mobile phones and other communication devices are banned, and possession of such items may lead to cancellation of results.

Additionally, candidates are not allowed to leave the examination room before the end of the paper unless permitted by the supervisor. Any suspected cases of cheating or irregularities should be reported through school authorities or directly to the council.

KNEC also outlined responsibilities for examination officials, including centre managers, supervisors, and invigilators, emphasising strict supervision, proper handling of examination scripts, and ensuring only authorized persons access to examination centres during the exam period.

The council cautioned that candidates found guilty of examination irregularities risk having their results cancelled, while serious offences such as leaking examination materials may attract heavy fines or imprisonment under the KNEC Act.

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Photo of KNEC CEO Dr David Njegere. PHOTO/MoE