In a major update for schools across Kenya, the KNEC KPSEA and KJSEA answer format 2025 has officially changed. The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) now requires all Grade 6 and Grade 9 candidates to shade circles on Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) sheets instead of drawing lines. This shift affects the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) and the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA), with the goal of improving accuracy, fairness, and digital processing during national exams. Schools in Nairobi and across the country are urged to begin early preparation to adapt to the new format.
What’s New?
- New shading method: The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has updated the Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) answer sheets for the Grade 6 Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) and the Grade 9 Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA).
- From 2025, candidates will shade answer choices in circles, replacing the previous method where they drew lines
Official Circular & Timing
- Dated June 19, 2025, the directive targets all schools preparing candidates for the October 2025 assessments .
- Sample OMR sheets and downloadable guidance are now available via the KNEC Competency Based Assessment (CBA) portal.
Why the Change?
- Improved accuracy: Shading circles reduces scanning errors in machine‑marked sheets.
- Better exam readiness: Allows students to practice using the actual answer format.
- Uniform grading: Ensures consistent marking across schools nationwide.
How Schools Should Prepare
- Access sample materials
- Log into the KNEC CBA portal.
- For Grade 6 (KPSEA) and Grade 9 (KJSEA) OMRs: go to the relevant portal, then click “Download Sample Cover Page and OMR”.
- Practice sessions
- Encourage learners to shade circles properly—dark, clean, fully within the circle.
- Avoid eraser marks or stray lines, which can mislead optical readers.
- Train teachers and invigilators
- Ensure all educational staff are familiar with the updated marking rules and common shading mistakes to avoid.
- Mobilize KPSEA & KJSEA teams
- Principals and exam coordinators should share the circular with their teams and schedule drills ahead of exam season.
Benefits for Kenyan Learners
- Higher scoring potential – clearer shading means fewer misreads.
- Reduced exam stress – practicing in advance boosts confidence.
- Alignment with global OMR standards – modernizes Kenya’s national assessments.
SEO & Local Keywords
- “KNEC KPSEA answer format 2025”
- “KJSEA new OMR circles Kenya”
- “Kenyan schools practice KPSEA shading”
- “Grade 6 exam prep Nairobi”
What To Do Next — For Kenyan Schools
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1️⃣ | Principal logs into CBA portal before the term ends |
| 2️⃣ | Download sample OMR sheets for circle shading practice |
| 3️⃣ | Conduct at least two full-length mock drills under timed conditions |
| 4️⃣ | Display shading rules in classrooms and exam halls |
| 5️⃣ | Continually review and improve based on mock exam feedback |
More Info
- KPSEA Support: [email protected] | 0798‑061149
- KJSEA Support: [email protected] | 0798‑062847
As the countdown to national exams continues, it’s crucial for every school to adopt the new KNEC KPSEA and KJSEA answer format 2025. From practicing OMR circle shading to downloading the official samples from the KNEC portal, early preparation will give Kenyan learners a clear advantage. Teachers, parents, and learners must act now to ensure exam readiness and avoid last-minute surprises when the October assessments begin.
Never Miss a Story: Join Our Newsletter
