Kenya is set to roll out the first-ever July Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) series in 2025. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has described the initiative as a significant step toward reforming the country’s examination framework by reducing the intense pressure traditionally associated with the November KCSE exams.
Speaking recently, CS Ogamba encouraged Kenyans seeking to improve their high school grades to take advantage of this opportunity. “The KCSE July series offers a second chance to those who didn’t perform well, while also alleviating the pressure on November exams, which have often been a do-or-die affair,” he said.
The July KCSE series will target several groups, including high school leavers who wish to improve their grades, adult learners, and private candidates. This flexibility ensures that anyone who missed out or wishes to enhance their scores can do so without necessarily being tied to formal schooling. Young learners within the school-going age bracket can also register for the exams as private candidates.
According to the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC), registration for the July KCSE series began on January 27, 2025, and will close on February 21, 2025. No late registrations will be entertained. Registration will be facilitated through County Directors of Education (CDE) offices across the country, while Nairobi candidates will register at the KNEC headquarters in South C.
The examination fees have been set at KSh 7,200 for all papers, payable during registration via the E-Citizen platform. Repeaters, both full and partial, and private candidates will need to meet these requirements to participate. KNEC clarified that the July series is specifically for repeaters and private candidates, distinguishing it from the November series.
CS Ogamba emphasized that candidates who meet the minimum requirements in the July exams will qualify for courses of their choice in higher learning institutions. This provides a fresh opportunity for those who previously fell short of securing competitive courses due to low grades.
The July KCSE series marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s education history, offering a fairer and more inclusive platform for academic achievement. For many, it represents a renewed chance to realize their aspirations, making the dream of higher education more accessible. With the registration deadline fast approaching, eligible candidates are urged to act promptly and seize this transformative opportunity.
