KNEC Outlines Rules for Candidates Sitting 2026 KCSE Exams

The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has issued instructions for candidates sitting the 2026 KCSE exams before, during and after their papers. Candidates must undergo a search and be seated at least 15 minutes before the start—8 a.m. for the morning session and 2 p.m. for the afternoon; those more than 30 minutes late may sit only in exceptional circumstances. They must check they have the correct question paper, record their names and index numbers accurately, use blue or black ink, and follow the rules for writing answers. Mobile phones and other electronic communication devices, wristwatches and programmable calculators are banned in examination rooms.