Under Kenya’s Competency-Based Education (CBE) system, learners move from junior school into senior school (Grades 10 to 12). The first group entered senior school in January 2026. Instead of the old KCSE subject mix, learners now choose a pathway in Grade 9. Details are still being refined, so check announcements from the Ministry of Education and KNEC each year.

The KJSEA

At the end of Grade 9, learners sit the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA), run by the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC). Placement in senior school is based on the KJSEA together with school-based assessment scores from earlier years (including Grades 6 and 7).

The three pathways

Every learner takes the core subjects: English, Kiswahili (or Kenyan Sign Language), Mathematics, and Community Service Learning. They then choose subjects from one pathway:

  • STEM - sciences, technical subjects and applied sciences.
  • Social Sciences - languages, humanities and business studies.
  • Arts and Sports Science - performing and visual arts, and sports.

Each pathway has several subject combinations, and not every school offers every combination.

How choosing works

In Grade 9, learners - with their parents - choose a pathway, subject combinations and a list of senior schools through the Ministry’s selection system. Selection opens for a few weeks each year (in 2026 it ran from late August to mid-September).

Placement then depends on:

  • the pathway and subject combination chosen,
  • the learner’s KJSEA and school-based scores, and
  • places available at schools offering that combination.

Tips for parents

  • Start with your child’s strengths and interests, not a school’s reputation. The pathway shapes what they can study later.
  • Check the combination - make sure the schools you choose actually offer it.
  • Choose a spread of schools, including day schools near home.
  • Look at university and college requirements for courses your child is considering.
  • Keep track of deadlines and use only official Ministry systems; do not pay anyone who promises a place.

Changing pathway

The Ministry has allowed some learners to request a change of pathway or school after placement, within set windows. Ask the school’s head, and follow official guidance.

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