The KNEC SBA tools for Term Three 2026 are now available on the Competency Based Assessment (CBA) portal. Schools must download, administer and upload learners’ scores by 23rd October 2026. This article explains what was released, who is affected, how to access the materials and practical steps schools should take to protect assessment integrity.
Key Takeaways
- The KNEC SBA tools were released on 28th September 2026 and target Grades 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8.
- All learners’ scores must be uploaded to the CBA portal by 23rd October 2026 — schools should plan early.
- Grade 6 and Grade 9 learners are exempt to prepare for KPSEA and KJSEA respectively.
- Headteachers must secure the materials, print colour images correctly or use school devices, and keep records for verification.
KNEC SBA tools — what’s included
KNEC published the Term Three School Based Assessment materials under circular KNEC/GEN/TD/SE/SBA/GUI/2026/03. The upload includes:
- KEYA (Kenya Early Years Assessment) for Grade 3 — written tests in Mathematics and English Activities; special needs learners have performance tasks in Activities of Daily Living and Communication, Social and Pre‑Literacy Skills.
- KFLEA tools for the Stage Based Curriculum.
- SBA written tests for Grades 4 and 5 covering Mathematics, English, Kiswahili, Kenyan Sign Language, Agriculture, Science & Technology, Social Studies, Religious Education and Creative Arts.
- SBA written tests for Grades 7 and 8 covering Mathematics, English, Kiswahili, Kenyan Sign Language, Social Studies, Religious Education, Integrated Science, Agriculture, Creative Arts & Sports, and Pre‑Technical Studies.
Who must take the assessments
The Term Three SBA targets primary and junior school learners in Grades 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8. Grade 6 learners are exempt to prepare for the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA). Similarly, Grade 9 learners are exempt to prepare for the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA). Schools should ensure exempt learners do not sit the released written tests.
How to access the tools and upload scores via the CBA portal
Headteachers and assessment coordinators must log in to the CBA portal and follow the published user manual for step‑by‑step instructions on downloading papers, using scoring guides and uploading results. If a password is forgotten, use the portal’s “forgot password” function to reset it before the assessment window.
Practical requirements for printing, administration and record keeping
The circular requires schools to pay attention to several practical details:
- Colour images: Any assessment that contains colour images must be printed in colour or presented to learners on school devices that can display the images clearly.
- Confidentiality: Treat downloaded tools as confidential until the moment of administration. Limit access to a small, trusted group of staff.
- Records and evidence: Keep all completed scripts, scoring sheets and any evidence of performance tasks. These may be required for verification and support the credibility of results.
- Timetable: Fit administration, marking and uploading into the short window before schools close for the long holiday — upload deadline is 23rd October 2026.
Safeguarding assessment integrity
KNEC warns against sharing SBA materials in social media or informal teacher groups. Leaks undermine the purpose of the assessment and may lead to disciplinary action. Heads of institutions must put in place measures to:
- Control who can download and print the tools.
- Supervise printing, storage and administration.
- Prevent unauthorised circulation on social media or messaging apps.
Step‑by‑step checklist for school managers
- Confirm portal access now: Log in and reset forgotten passwords before assessment week.
- Read the user manual: Follow the scoring guides and upload instructions to avoid errors.
- Plan printing or digital delivery: Arrange colour printing or ensure devices are available for learners.
- Assign responsibilities: Give clear roles for administering, marking and uploading scores.
- Secure and archive evidence: Keep all records for verification.
- Upload on time: Enter scores for all learners by 23rd October 2026.
Why the School Based Assessment matters
School Based Assessment complements project and practical evidence gathered in Term Two and the written tests in Term Three. SBA provides ongoing evidence of learner competencies rather than relying on a single terminal exam. Accurate, secure SBA results help teachers, parents and policymakers identify learner needs and plan appropriate support.
Resources and practice materials
To prepare learners and teachers, schools can use practice exams and curriculum resources. Examples available on related resources pages include free CBC exams for practice, sample papers for younger learners such as Grade 3 CBC term exams, and revision sets linked to national assessments like the KCPE practice exams.
Looking ahead
With materials now on the portal, responsibility rests with schools to act quickly. Headteachers and assessment coordinators should follow the circular closely, secure the tests, and ensure timely upload of accurate scores. Properly administered SBA results will give a true picture of learner progress as the school year closes.
