Grade 10 STEM: Public national schools and subject combinations

Grade 9 learners in Kenya have until September 11, 2026, to choose their subjects and senior schools for the new Grade 10 system. The selection process began on August 24, 2026, via the Ministry of Education’s Selection and Placement System. Parents must consider not only the school chosen but also the specific STEM subjects offered, as these must align with the learner's desired course after Grade 12.

The STEM pathway, which includes science, technology, engineering, and mathematics-related areas, has gained popularity due to a high potential among Junior Secondary Education Assessment candidates (about 59%). A typical STEM combination may consist of Core Mathematics, Biology, and Chemistry; Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry; Biology, Chemistry, and Computer Studies; or Core Mathematics, Chemistry, and Computer Studies.

Public national schools, also known as Cluster 1 or C1 senior schools, are expected to provide STEM and all three pathways due to their staffing and laboratory capabilities. Among the boys' schools offering STEM are Alliance High School, Mang'u High School, Nairobi School, Lenana School, Starehe Boys' Centre, and others. For girls' schools, examples include Alliance Girls' High School, The Kenya High School, Maryhill Girls, Pangani Girls, and others.

While being a national or C1 school does not guarantee the availability of every STEM combination, parents should confirm the specific subjects offered by their preferred school before making their selections. The selection portal (selection.education.go.ke) provides the most recent information on available pathways and subject combinations at individual schools.

Parents should review their choices with their children, download the confirmation slip, and address any issues with the junior school or Ministry support teams before the September 11, 2026, deadline.