Academic grading in Kenya

In Kenya the grading system varies according to overall performance of candidates in the national exam called Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE).

For example, in 2006, a mean grade A corresponded with 76 and upwards percentage points, while in 2007 it changed to 81 and upwards points. However, generally, the grading system is as follows:

Percent Grade Points
80-100% A 12
75-79% A- 11
70-74% B+ 10
65-69% B 9
60-64% B- 8
55-59% C+ 7
50-54% C 6
45-49% C- 5
40-44 D+ 4
35-39 D 3
30-34 D- 2
0-29% E 1

Examinees are awarded an overall grade for the subjects examined.Students seat for 8 or 9 subjects but the overall grade and points are calculated from 8 subjects. All the compulsory subjects and the best electives.

Subject Grade Points
English A- 11
Kiswahili B+ 10
Mathematics B 9
Chemistry B+ 10
Biology C+ 7
Physics A 12
Geography A- 11
Business Studies B 9
TOTAL B+ 79

The total of 79 is used to calculate the overall grade. (Total Acquired points/Number of subjects) i.e. 79/8=9.9 rounding off 9.9 i.e a B+. The cut off point for entry into public universities depends on the overall performance of all the candidates and is determined by the Joint Admission Board (JAB)e.g. They could set it at 62,69 e.t.c.