Academic Pressure and National Exams

The third term is often marked by heightened academic expectations. With national exams such as KCPE and KCSE approaching, students face long study hours, frequent assessments, and increased pressure from teachers and parents to perform well. This can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout.

Financial Strain on Parents and Guardians

Parents often struggle to meet the rising costs of school fees, uniforms, books, and examination charges. Since third term is considered the most expensive, many students return to school late or risk missing essential requirements due to financial limitations.

Mental and Emotional Stress

The pressure of looming exams, combined with the fear of failure, affects students’ emotional well-being. For many, third term feels like a high-stakes season that determines their future, creating tension and reduced motivation.

Limited Time for Co-curricular Activities

Unlike other terms, third term is shorter and heavily focused on academics. Students get little to no time for sports, arts, or relaxation. The lack of balance often makes school life feel monotonous and draining.

Peer Pressure and Competition

With grades determining progression to higher levels, competition among peers intensifies. Some students struggle with self-esteem, while others turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms to handle the mounting pressure.

Conclusion

The third term in Kenya presents a unique set of challenges for both students and parents. While it is a crucial period that often defines academic outcomes, the heavy financial, emotional, and academic demands make it one of the most stressful times of the year. 

To ease these struggles, there is a need for better support systems—ranging from financial assistance programs to mental health awareness—ensuring that students are not only prepared academically but also supported emotionally to succeed.