Ministry Announces Updates to 2026 PEP Examination Administration
Written by Kimberly Bowen January 7, 2026
The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information (MoESYI) has announced significant updates to the administration of the Primary Exit Profile (PEP) Examination for the 2025–2026 academic year. The changes were outlined in Priority Bulletin 04, dated January 7, 2026, and are intended to address learning disruptions caused by Hurricane Melissa.
According to the Ministry, the adjustments were developed following consultations with educators, school leaders, and national assessment committees, and are aimed at ensuring fairness, equity, and curriculum integrity for all students.
Revised PEP Assessments by Grade
Under the revised structure, PEP assessments will differ across Grades 4, 5, and 6.
Grade 6 students will complete:
- The Ability Test
- A Mathematics Curriculum-Based Test (with numeracy items)
- A Language Arts Curriculum-Based Test (with literacy items)
No performance tasks will be administered at Grade 6 for Mathematics or Language Arts in 2026.
The Grade 6 PEP examinations will be administered on:
- April 29, 2026 – Mathematics Curriculum-Based Test and Language Arts Curriculum-Based Test
- April 30, 2026 – Ability Test
Grade 5 students will complete Performance Tasks only in:
- Mathematics
- Language Arts
Performance Tasks for Science and Social Studies will not be administered at this level.
The Grade 5 Performance Tasks will take place on:
- June 10, 2026
Grade 4 students will sit:
- A Literacy Test
- A Numeracy Test
No performance tasks will be administered at Grade 4 in 2026.
The Grade 4 PEP assessments are scheduled for:
- June 24, 2026‘
Looking for PEP 2026–aligned practice materials for Grade 4, 5, or 6
Ministry’s Rationale
The Ministry noted that Hurricane Melissa caused widespread disruption, including school closures, student displacement, and emotional distress across several parishes. As a result, adjustments were made to reduce assessment demands while maintaining the credibility of national examinations.
Officials have emphasised that the revised assessment structure will continue to support student placement and progression while reflecting the realities faced by schools during the academic year.
Guidance to Schools and Parents
Schools have been advised to align instruction and preparation with the updated assessment framework. Parents and guardians are encouraged to remain informed through official school channels and to support students as they prepare for the examinations.
The Ministry has also urged school administrators to share the updated examination schedule widely to ensure smooth implementation.
Further information can be obtained through the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information or the Examinations and Assessment Administration Services Branch.
About the Author
This article was prepared by the Kimberly Bowen MA, BSc., general manager for PEP Practice. Our goal is to provide support for students’ academic success and well-being.
PEP 