As Kenya transitions to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), the process for advancing from Junior Secondary (Grade 9) to Senior Secondary (Grade 10) has become more streamlined and merit-based. The Kenya Junior Secondary Education Assessment (KJSEA) results, released in December 2025, determine placements for Grade 10 starting in January 2026. The admission letter—often referred to as the placement letter—is a crucial document that confirms your assigned school and provides joining instructions. This article guides you through the steps to obtain it, along with key requirements for reporting to school.

Understanding the Grade 10 Placement Process

Under the CBC system, Grade 10 placements are allocated based on a composite score: 60% from the KJSEA (end of Grade 9), 20% from School-Based Assessments in Grades 7 and 8, and 20% from the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) in Grade 6. Higher scores typically secure spots in top-tier schools, categorized as:

• C1: National schools
• C2: Extra County schools
• C3: County schools
• C4: Sub-County schools

Placements are merit-based and aim to ensure equity across public and private institutions accepting the CBC cohort. If you’re a parent or student, note that the process is primarily digital, making it accessible but requiring an internet connection and your learner’s assessment number.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Admission Letter

Follow these steps to download your Grade 10 admission letter. As of December 30, 2025, letters are being populated in the system, so check promptly.

Step 1: Confirm Results Release

The Ministry of Education releases KJSEA results and placements in late December. If results are out (as they were in December 2025), proceed to the official portal. You can verify this through official announcements or your junior school’s head.

Step 2: Access the Official Selection Portal

Visit the Ministry of Education’s Grade 10 Selection System website for learner selection verification or direct letter download.

These portals are user-friendly and require no login beyond your assessment details.

Step 3: Enter Your Details

• Input your learner’s assessment number (from the KJSEA or provided by your school).
• Ensure the details match exactly as used during registration to avoid errors.
• Click “Search” or “Generate” to retrieve the document.

If the system shows no results, it could mean the letter hasn’t been populated yet—letters were expected to be available by December 30, 2025.

Step 4: Download and Print the Letter

• Once generated, download the PDF admission letter.
• Print multiple copies: one original to be signed by the school director upon reporting, and extras for your records.
• The letter includes your assigned school, reporting date (typically January 12, 2026), and any specific instructions.

Step 5: Handle Special Cases

• If You Want to Change Schools: Parents must formally apply for a transfer through the head of the junior school where Grade 9 was completed. Provide reasons and required documents (e.g., birth certificate, assessment results). Transfers are processed digitally via the Grade 10 Selection System.
• Technical Issues: If the portal is down or you encounter errors, contact your junior school or the Ministry of Education helpline.
• Private Schools: If opting for a private senior secondary school, the process may vary—check directly with the institution, but public placements are still generated via the portal.

Requirements for Reporting to Grade 10

While obtaining the letter is digital, reporting to school requires physical documents. Prepare these in advance to ensure smooth enrollment on January 12, 2026:

• Original Admission Letter: Signed by the school director.
• Birth Certificate: Original and copy for age verification.
• Passport Photos: Two for the student (for school records and ID), one clear one for additional school requirements, and one from parents/guardians for emergency contacts.
• Other Items: A photo of the school location and a school map (to be placed in the school’s designated box).

Note: No certificates are issued—only result slips from assessments.

Tips for a Smooth Process

• Act quickly: With schools reopening in early January, download your letter as soon as possible.
• Use a reliable device: Ensure your browser has JavaScript enabled, as some portals require it.
• Seek Help if Needed: Junior school heads are key contacts for guidance. Online tutorials (e.g., on YouTube) demonstrate the download process visually.
• Stay Informed: Follow Ministry of Education updates for any changes.

By following these steps, you’ll secure your Grade 10 admission letter efficiently and be ready for the next phase of your education under CBC. If you’re facing challenges, reach out to educational authorities promptly. Success in Grade 10 awaits!

Also read :Switching Schools After Grade 10 Placement: Your Easy Guide to Fix It!