The Ministry of Education issues the basic-education calendar each year. These are the 2026 dates.
2026 term dates
| Term | Opens | Half-term | Closes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | 5 January | 25 February – 1 March | 2 April |
| Term 2 | 27 April | 24 – 28 June | 31 July |
| Term 3 | 24 August | — | 23 October |
Holidays: 7–24 April and 3–21 August. National assessments (KPSEA, KILEA, KJSEA, KPLEA) begin 26 October; KCSE runs 2–20 November.
Check before you travel
The Ministry occasionally adjusts dates by circular. Confirm with your school.
Frequently asked questions
When does Term 3 2026 end?
23 October 2026.
When is KCSE 2026?
2–20 November 2026,.
Related: School fees in Kenya hub
Sources: Education News, TV47. Last updated October 2026.
