School & parents

How to check KCSE results by SMS and online

Get KCSE results by sending the index number to 20076, or online on the KNEC results portal. What the grades mean and what to do next.

⏱ Takes about 2 minutes💳 Cost: The SMS is charged (shown when the service opens)✔ Last checked 12 November 2026

KCSE results are usually released by the Ministry of Education in January, for the exam sat at the end of the previous year. Once they're out, you can check them by SMS or online.

By SMS

  1. Open the messages app on any Safaricom or Airtel line.
  2. Type the candidate's full KCSE index number (11 digits, e.g. 12345678001), with no spaces.
  3. Send it to 20076.
  4. You'll receive the candidate's grades by SMS. The SMS is charged; the cost is announced when the service opens.

Note: On release day the SMS service is very busy. If you get no reply, wait and try again later rather than sending many messages.

Online

  1. Go to the KNEC results portal at results.knec.ac.ke.
  2. Enter the index number and the candidate's name as registered.
  3. View the results. Schools also download their candidates' results and display them.

Understanding the results

  • Each subject gets a grade from A (12 points) to E (1 point).
  • The mean grade comes from 7 subjects: Mathematics, one language and the best 5 other subjects. You can practise with our KCSE mean grade calculator.
  • The result slip and certificate come later, through the school.

What next

  • University and college placement is done by KUCCPS. See how to apply for courses on KUCCPS.
  • If you think a result is wrong, ask the school to help you follow KNEC's procedure for queries, within the time KNEC sets.
Steps, fees and websites change from time to time. This guide was last checked on 12 November 2026. Before you pay or submit anything, confirm the details on the official website (KNEC). Never share your PIN or passwords with anyone who calls or texts you.