KUCCPS portal is open for online application of degree programmes offered in both public and private universities in Kenya. So, students who sat to write KCSE exams in 2025 should choose courses from April 7, 2026, to May 6, 2026. As a career educator in several schools, I think, as Form 4 leavers embark on the important exercise, there’re a raft of fascinating factors to consider.
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University Admission Requirements
Firstly, the minimum mean grade in KCSE for university admission is a C+ (plus) of 46 points. Withal, according to The Essential Career Guide, apart from the mean grade, students should take note of four subject cluster requirements for courses they intend to pursue. For example, subjects for health sciences such as Medicine, Clinical Medicine and Nursing include: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics and English or Kiswahili. There’re high-competitive courses. Likewise, admission into city-based universities is quite competitive.
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Location of University
Secondly, location is an important factor. There’re students desiring exposure. Therefore, a student from the Coast region can consider getting exposure by joining Alupe University in Busia border. Then, there’re students interested in joining universities in close range — in urban or rural areas. Universities based in towns have more opportunities, such as easy accessibility to major offices. Whereas universities based in rural areas have fewer distractions and a lower cost of living.
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Accreditation and Recognition
Thirdly, apart from getting excited about universities, it’s imperative to consider whether the course offered is accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE). Meaning, ascertain whether the university is chartered. Or it’s operating under a letter of interim. Accreditation guarantees the quality of education. It means extant programmes are recognised both locally and internationally, which increases the chances of a successful future job search and employment. As well as the possibility of further studies.
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Availability of Courses
Advisedly, firstly, know the degree course. Then, afterwards, ascertain its availability at the university of choice. It’s important to consider the curriculum relevance of the course in relation to the current job market and future prospects. For some courses, are withering. While others are blooming. Then, some universities are known for specific strengths in certain courses.
- Reputation and Ranking
Moreover, it’s wise to consider the global recognition of universities. The factor increases the employability of its graduates in this wide old world. The factor also creates networking opportunities for mutual gain, growth and exposure.
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Opportunities and Employment
Again, before joining any university, focus on statistics — facts and figures — regarding its graduates on employment rates and industry connections. Ascertain the existence of apprenticeship, internship and mentorship (AIM) programmes for its students. Then, in these times and climes, focus on universities keen on incorporating modules on digital transformation, data skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, or industry-relevant technologies.
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Cost of Courses
Additionally, while thinking about which university to join, consider accommodation cost, daily living expenses and cost of courses. For in the vast array of courses, they may vary in various universities. Students who’re from humble backgrounds or are financially-famished should prioritise public universities. For in new funding model — Variable Scholarship and Loan Funding (VSLF) Model, university students are funded based on scholarship, loans and household contribution. Students are clustered in bands 1-5: Band 1 (vulnerable), band 2 (extremely needy), band 3 (needy), band 4 (less needy) and band 5 (new category).
Initially, there was a Differentiated Unit Cost (DUC), where the government supported students based on the cost of courses. But in the new VSLF model, university students are funded based on scholarship, loans and household contribution. Moving from band 1 to 5, there’s a reduction in scholarship and Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), now Higher Education Fund (HEF) loans allocation. Conversely, household contribution keeps on increasing. Students who decide to settle on private universities should know that they will not be eligible for scholarship allocations. No wonder vulnerable and needy students should choose public universities.
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University Accommodation Options
Furthermore, it’s important to consider whether the university has on-campus housing or hostel accommodation. Conversely, in case there’re limited accommodations on campus in hostels, it’s wise to find out more about rental rates, safety and security, accessibility and convenience of off-campus housing facilities.
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Lifestyle and Environment
Actually, a university is a place for diversity and inclusivity. Therefore, find out more about the university. For it will be your new home for some time. A positive environment will support your personal growth and development. Therefore, find out about culture, social amenities and facilities.
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University Support Services
Finally, it’s wise to choose a university due to the availability of support services such as strong academic programmes, counselling services, mentorship programmes, AIM programmes, scholarship opportunities, and work-study programmes. Such services will assist students to cope with challenges rife in universities.
By Victor Ochieng’
Victor Ochieng’ is a career educator. He guides students on how to make informed career choices. vochieng.90@gmail.com. 0704420232
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