The Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) 2025 results, released today, show modest improvements compared with last year, with more students meeting the requirements for university entry.
A total of 993,226 candidates sat for the exams, up from 962,512 in 2024, reflecting a 3.2% increase in participation. Among these candidates, girls made up roughly half of the cohort, demonstrating steady gender balance in secondary education.
Top grades on the rise
This year, 1,932 candidates achieved a mean grade of A (plain), up from 1,693 in 2024. Meanwhile, 270,715 candidates (27.18%) scored C+ and above, qualifying for direct university entry, an improvement from the previous year. Overall, 50.92% of candidates scored C- and above, while 63.67% achieved D+ and above.
While these numbers are encouraging, the proportion of top performers remains low, highlighting the continued need for interventions to improve learning outcomes, especially in schools outside the national and private systems.
Subject and gender trends
Mathematics emerged as the best-performing language, while 17 subjects recorded improved performance compared with 2024. Boys performed strongly in STEM subjects, whereas girls excelled in languages and arts subjects such as English, Kiswahili, and Art & Design.
School performance highlights
National schools led in producing top grades, with 1,526 A-grade achievers, followed by extra-county and private schools. Interestingly, sub-county schools outperformed county schools in the proportion of students scoring C+ and above, signalling that quality learning is happening even outside elite schools.
Challenges remain
The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) cancelled results for 1,180 candidates due to examination irregularities, reminding stakeholders of the need for continued vigilance and integrity in assessments.
What parents should know
For parents, these results serve as both an encouragement and a call to action. Supporting children early, monitoring learning progress, and providing resources for difficult subjects can make a big difference in performance.
Engaging with schools, understanding subject strengths, and guiding children toward realistic and fulfilling career paths remain key.
As Kenya celebrates the achievements of its young learners, the 2025 KCSE results also underscore the work that lies ahead to ensure every child has the support, guidance, and opportunity to succeed.
To help you navigate these next steps with clarity, read our page on parenting or read our guide on what to consider when enrolling your child in their first school, to ensure you secure your future.
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