How to Choose Grade 10 Schools in Kenya (CBC): Complete 2026 Selection Guide
To Choose Grade 10 schools in Kenya under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) involves selecting a career pathway (STEM, Social Sciences, or Arts & Sports Science) and submitting 12 school choices through the official Ministry of Education placement portal. Placement is based on KJSEA results (60%), School-Based Assessments (20%), and KPSEA results (20%).
Quick Answer
To choose Grade 10 schools in Kenya:
- Select a career pathway (STEM, Social Sciences, Arts & Sports Science).
- Pick 3 subject combinations within your chosen pathway.
- Choose 12 schools:
- 3 day schools (home sub-county)
- 3 boarding schools (home county)
- 6 boarding schools (outside county)
- Submit choices via the Ministry of Education portal.
- Placement is automated using KJSEA + SBA + KPSEA scores.
Step-by-Step Guide to Grade 10 School Selection in Kenya
1. Identify Your CBC Career Pathway
Under the Competency-Based Curriculum, learners must choose one of three pathways:
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
Ideal for careers in medicine, engineering, ICT, and research. - Social Sciences
Focuses on humanities, business studies, law, and communication. - Arts & Sports Science
Designed for creative arts, performing arts, and athletics.
2. Choose Subject Combinations
Each pathway has specific subject combinations.
Example (STEM):
- Physics + Chemistry + Mathematics
- Biology + Chemistry + Agriculture
👉 The selection portal will display schools offering your chosen combination.
3. Select the Required 12 Schools
You must choose exactly 12 schools, structured as follows:
| Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Day Schools | 3 (within home sub-county) |
| Boarding Schools (Home County) | 3 |
| Boarding Schools (Outside County) | 6 |
Additionally:
- Pick 4 schools per subject combination (3 combinations × 4 = 12)
- Balance ambitious, moderate, and safe options
4. Understand School Categories (C1–C4)
Schools are grouped based on performance and infrastructure:
- C1 (Top National Schools) – Highly competitive
- C2 (Extra-County Schools) – Strong academic performance
- C3 (County Schools) – Moderate competition
- C4 (Sub-County/Day Schools) – Accessible and affordable
👉 A smart strategy is to mix C1, C2, and C3 schools to increase placement chances.
5. Submit Choices via Official Portal
Submit selections through the Ministry of Education system:
- Visit: https://www.education.go.ke
- Log in using student credentials
- Confirm all 12 choices before submission
Grade 10 Placement Criteria (CBC Formula)
Placement is automated using a weighted system:
- 60% – Kenya Junior School Education Assessment
- 20% – School-Based Assessments (Grades 7 & 8)
- 20% – Kenya Primary School Education Assessment
👉 This ensures fair placement beyond a single exam score.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Schools
1. Career Alignment
Choose schools that offer your preferred pathway and subject combination.
2. School Facilities
Evaluate:
- Science laboratories
- ICT infrastructure
- Sports and arts facilities
3. Location
- Proximity to home
- Boarding vs day preference
- Security and accessibility
4. Co-Curricular Strength
Ensure the school supports:
- Sports talent
- Performing arts
- Clubs and innovation programs
How to Check Grade 10 Placement Results
You can confirm placement using:
- SMS Method
Send your assessment number to 22263 (Ksh 30) - Online Portal (KEMIS)
Visit: https://kemis.education.go.ke
Download your admission letter online—schools do not issue printed copies.
Can You Change Grade 10 Placement?
Yes. A revision window is usually opened:
- Apply through your Junior School Headteacher
- Transfer depends on available vacancies
- Must be approved by the Ministry
Important Notes
- 100% Transition Policy: All learners proceed to Grade 10
- No First-Come Advantage: Selection is not time-based
- Placement is Final unless officially revised
Related Guides:
How to find CBA Assessment Number
FAQs: Grade 10 School Selection in Kenya
How many schools should I choose for Grade 10 in Kenya?
You must select 12 schools following the Ministry’s structure.
Can I choose schools outside my county?
Yes. You are required to pick 6 boarding schools outside your home county.
Do KJSEA results determine placement?
Partially. KJSEA contributes 60%, but SBA and KPSEA also count.
What happens if I choose only top schools?
You risk missing placement in preferred schools. Always balance your choices.
Are day schools mandatory?
Yes. You must include 3 day schools within your sub-county.
Explainer video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcO7SAOcK-k
