The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) runs the exams for TVET courses. These exams give you a nationally recognized certificate. You can use this certificate to get a job or go for further studies. This guide covers the 2026 exam dates, how to register, where to get KNEC TVET exam papers, and how much it costs.
KNEC TVET Exams 2026 — Dates, Registration & Past Papers
Kenya National Examinations Council — TVET Qualifications
KNEC runs 3 exam series every year for TVET students. Your college registers you — you do not register yourself. Here is everything you need to know: exam dates, fees, how registration works, and where to find past papers to practice.
3 Exam Series
March/April, July, and November/December each year. The main exam series is November/December.
Institution Registration
Your TVET institution registers you. Individual candidates cannot register directly with KNEC.
Exam Fee Range
KES 2K–8K
Per exam series, depending on course level. Artisan lowest, Diploma highest.
2026 KNEC TVET Exam Calendar
March/April Series
Registration:
Registration by January
Exams:
March – April
Results:
Results by June
July Series
Registration:
Registration by May
Exams:
July
Results:
Results by September
November/December Series
Registration:
Registration by September
Exams:
November – December
Results:
Results by February
Courses Examined by KNEC
Artisan Certificates
All trade areas. Basic skills certification for entry-level workers.
Craft Certificates
All trade areas. Intermediate certification for skilled workers.
Diploma in Technical Education
Engineering, Building, ICT, Applied Sciences, and other technical fields.
Diploma in Business Studies
Accounting, Business Management, Human Resources, Marketing, Supply Chain.
Diploma in ICT
Information Technology, Computer Studies, Software Development, Networking.
Higher Diploma Courses
Advanced specializations in select technical and business fields.
How Registration Works
Your College Registers You
Your college exams office handles everything. They collect your name, ID number, course, and units. Then they submit all of it through the KNEC portal.
Check Your Details
Before the college submits, check that your name and units are correct. Mistakes are hard to fix later. Take your time and look carefully.
Pay Your Exam Fees
Pay your exam fees through your college. Keep your receipt. The amount depends on your course level and how many units you are sitting for.
Get Your Exam Card
Before exams start, your college gives you an exam card. It has your exam number, centre, and timetable. Keep it safe. You cannot sit exams without it.
Exam Fees by Course Level
| Course Level | Estimated Fee (KES) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Artisan Level | 2,000 – 4,000 | Basic trade certification |
| Certificate Level | 3,000 – 5,000 | Craft and certificate courses |
| Diploma Level | 5,000 – 8,000 | Technical and business diplomas |
| Higher Diploma | 8,000 – 12,000 | Advanced specializations |
Fees are per exam series and are subject to change. Confirm exact fees with your institution. Some institutions include exam fees in the annual tuition — check with your exams office.
Past Papers & Results
Getting Past Papers
- - Your institution's library or exams office
- - KNEC website (knec.ac.ke) — limited selection
- - Authorized bookshops (Text Book Centre, etc.)
- - Online platforms and student forums
Checking Results
- - Your institution posts results on notice boards
- - KNEC portal (knec.ac.ke) — requires exam number
- - SMS service (send your index number to KNEC shortcode)
- - Certificates issued 3-6 months after results
Find a TVET Institution
Browse over 2,300 accredited TVET institutions across all 47 counties. Find the right college for your course and prepare for your KNEC exams.