KASNEB scraps optional questions in major exam structure overhaul

The Kenya Accountants and Secretaries National Examinations Board (KASNEB) has announced sweeping changes to the structure of its professional examination papers, eliminating optional questions and introducing a fully compulsory format beginning April 2026.

In a notice signed by Secretary and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Prof. Nicholas Letting, the Board said all professional-level examination papers will now consist of five compulsory questions. Candidates will be required to attempt all five questions within a three-hour session.

The changes will affect students pursuing professional qualifications including Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Secretaries (CS), Certified Investment and Financial Analyst (CIFA), Certified Credit Professional (CCP) and Certified Procurement and Supply Professional (CQP).

Under the revised structure, the marks allocated to each question will be clearly indicated at the end of every question. KASNEB said there will be no optional questions under the new format.

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“The revised structure is intended to enhance fairness, consistency and comparability of examination papers,” the Board said in the notice. It added that the move aligns its assessment model with best practices in professional examinations.

The board further advised students preparing for the April 2026 examinations and subsequent sittings to familiarise themselves with the new format, and sharpen their time management skills to ensure they effectively attempt all five questions within the three-hour duration.

Sample pilot papers reflecting the revised structure for affected subjects have been made available on the KASNEB e-library to guide candidates ahead of implementation.

However, the board clarified that the examination structure for Certificate, Diploma and Post-Professional qualifications remains unchanged.

KASNEB reiterated its commitment to maintaining high standards in the administration of professional examinations and continuous improvement of the assessment process.

By Benedict Aoya