The Cabinet Secretary for Education, Julius Ogamba, has officially announced the commencement of registration for the 2026 Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA). The exercise will run from 16th February to 16th March 2026, giving schools a one-month window to submit candidate details through the official portal managed by the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC).

This launch marks a crucial stage in preparations for next year’s national assessment, particularly for Grade 6 learners under the Competency-Based Education (CBE) framework. Schools are expected to act promptly to ensure that all eligible learners are registered on time.

Registration Requirements and Eligibility

Registration applies to all eligible Grade 6 learners expected to sit the 2026 KPSEA. Candidates must be enrolled in recognized institutions approved by KNEC, and schools carry the primary responsibility of ensuring that every learner is captured within the registration period.

According to KNEC guidelines under the oversight of the Ministry of Education, schools must ensure that candidate information is accurate. This includes full names exactly as they appear on birth certificates or official identification, correct spelling, order of names, gender, and date of birth. Schools must also submit verification documents, primarily birth certificates, and provide relevant documentation for learners requiring special assessment accommodations.

Only institutions registered and recognized by KNEC are allowed to submit candidates through the official portal. Education authorities have emphasized that errors during registration, such as misspelled names or incorrect personal data, can lead to complications later, including discrepancies in official records and assessment documentation.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to confirm with their schools that their children have been duly registered within the stipulated timeframe.

Deadlines, Compliance, and the Importance of KPSEA

The registration portal will close on 16th March 2026, and schools are strongly encouraged to complete the process early. This allows time for verification and correction of any errors. Late registration may attract penalties or may not be accommodated once the portal closes.

KPSEA is a key component of Kenya’s Competency-Based Education system, designed to assess the acquisition of competencies and practical skills developed throughout primary education rather than merely recalling content. Proper registration ensures that all eligible learners are formally captured within the national assessment framework and can transition smoothly into the next phase of learning.

With the registration window now open, school administrators should prioritize data verification and completion of submissions. Parents and guardians should remain proactive in confirming that learners have been registered. The launch of registration signals the beginning of a critical phase in the 2026 academic calendar, one that requires accuracy, timeliness, and coordination to ensure every eligible learner is accounted for.

Photo Courtesy, KNEC