The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has extended the deadline for uploading Grade 4 and 5 School Based Assessment (SBA) project scores on the Competency Based Assessment (CBA) portal. Schools now have until 15 June 2026 to complete uploads after the original May 29 cutoff was missed by many institutions.
Key Takeaways
- Deadline extended: Grade 4 and 5 SBA uploads now due 15 June 2026.
- New system features: OTP authentication, decentralized teacher accounts and learner re-registration.
- Penalties: Non-compliance may attract Sh1,000 per learner and possible audits.
- Action steps: Register learners, create teacher accounts, validate scores and upload early to avoid congestion.
KNEC SBA score uploads: what schools must do
The main requirement is simple: validate and upload Grade 4 and 5 SBA scores before the extended deadline. The reopening of the portal is a response to partial or missing uploads. KNEC SBA score uploads refer to the project marks for three core learning areas: Science and Technology, Agriculture, and Creative Arts and Sports.
What changed in the CBA portal
The new CBA uploading platform introduces stricter controls and a different workflow. Key changes include:
- One-Time Password (OTP) authentication: A security code is required for portal access.
- Decentralized access: Headteachers must create unique usernames and passwords for each teacher who will upload scores.
- Learner re-registration: Students must be re-registered in the new grade before scores can be entered.
- Staggered timelines: KNEC is using phased submission windows to manage traffic on the portal.
Deadlines and affected grades
The current deadlines are set to reduce congestion on the portal. Schools should note:
- Grade 4 and 5: 15 June 2026 (extended)
- Grades 3, 7 and 8: 31 July 2026
Schools must upload scores for the three core subjects listed above within the given windows.
Why timely uploads matter
Uploading on time preserves the integrity of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) assessment cycle. Term 2 focuses on projects and practicals while Term 3 is for written assessments. Late or missing uploads can lead to penalties and audits. Regional KNEC officials warn against accessing the portal during the final 48 hours because heavy traffic can cause failures and incomplete submissions.
Practical steps to complete KNEC SBA score uploads successfully
Follow this checklist to reduce errors and avoid penalties:
- Train staff: Brief teachers on how to use OTP, create accounts and upload files.
- Create teacher accounts early: Headteachers should generate usernames and passwords for each uploading teacher ahead of time.
- Re-register learners: Confirm every learner is registered in the correct grade before entering scores.
- Validate offline: Prepare and cross-check scores offline (spreadsheets) before uploading to reduce mistakes.
- Upload in stages: Use the staggered schedule where possible and avoid the final 48 hours.
- Backup evidence: Keep copies of project photos, notes and student records in case of audit.
Common technical issues and quick fixes
Schools have reported a few common problems. Try these fixes:
- OTP delays: Ensure the phone number used for OTPs is reachable and has network credit.
- Account lockouts: Reset teacher passwords immediately and keep a secure list of credentials.
- Slow uploads: Use a stable internet connection, upload outside peak hours and compress large files.
- Missing learner records: Re-register learners and cross-check registration numbers against your school KEMIS records.
Resources and further reading
For classroom and assessment support related to the CBC and SBA, schools can use available exam and curriculum resources. See the collection of free CBC exams for practice materials and the CBC curriculum designs to align projects and assessment tasks. Teachers preparing learners for primary national tests can also consult free KCPE exam resources for past papers and revision guidance.
Final notes
Act now: begin account setup, re-register learners and validate all scores. Completing the KNEC SBA score uploads early will reduce stress and lower the risk of penalties. If your school still faces technical problems, prioritize contacting regional KNEC support and keep written records of all submission attempts in case an audit is needed.
