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University Entry Crisis: 50,000 Students Yet to Apply or Get Placed

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Kenya’s higher education sector is facing a concerning trend—over 50,000 students who achieved the minimum university entry grade of C+ and above have not been placed in any institution through the KUCCPS system.

According to data shared by the Ministry of Education, 42,000 of these students did not apply for any courses, while another 7,000 were unsuccessful in their applications.

The government is puzzled by the lack of interest in university education among qualified learners, especially at a time when it has made strides in making higher education more affordable. The cost of university courses has recently been reduced by between 15% and 40%, following a major revision in the funding assessment formula.

Dr Julius Ogambo explained that the government is now using a more comprehensive tool to evaluate students’ financial need. The revised model includes variables such as previous school fee payment patterns, land owned by the family, hospital bills, and even use of the Hustler Fund.

While some students snubbed university for TVET and medical training colleges, others applied to highly competitive programs with limited slots. Dr Ogambo noted, “There are 7,640 C+ and above students who chose TVET, and 6,750 who opted for KMTCs and primary TTCs.”

Diploma courses in primary teacher education have seen significant interest, with 20,786 applicants competing for just 13,823 places. Only 11,636 students secured placement in this course. Similarly, the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) programs received overwhelming interest, especially in nursing, which saw 52,725 applicants. Just under half—25,034—were selected.

Other KMTC programs drawing large numbers include Clinical Medicine, Community Health, and Emergency Medical Technician training.

To address this placement gap, the KUCCPS portal remains open to allow more students to apply. Additionally, students can now access the Higher Education Fund portal to apply for financial support.

Dr Ogambo reiterated the government’s commitment to equity in education: “We are ensuring that all learners, regardless of background, have an opportunity to pursue their academic dreams. The new funding model is designed to reflect true household financial realities.”

As admission letters are being dispatched, the Ministry urges all eligible students to take advantage of the placement and funding opportunities still available.

Rising Demand for TVET and KMTC Courses as University Placement Lags

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More than 50,000 students who scored university entry grades in the 2024 KCSE exams are yet to secure placements in higher education institutions. According to the Ministry of Education, while a large number of eligible students chose not to apply at all, others failed to get placed despite submitting applications.

Out of this number, over 42,000 students did not attempt to apply for placement through the KUCCPS portal. Meanwhile, 7,000 students who did apply were not matched with any university or college.

Interestingly, some students deliberately bypassed university in favour of TVET and medical training institutions. Dr Julius Ogambo, an official in the Ministry of Education, disclosed that 7,640 students with C+ and above opted for TVET colleges, while 6,750 chose KMTCs and primary teacher training colleges (TTCs).

Despite the traditionally high appeal of courses such as medicine and engineering, newer preferences are emerging. The diploma in primary teacher education, for instance, drew 20,786 applications, overshooting its capacity of 13,823. Only 11,636 students were finally admitted.

KMTCs witnessed a surge in demand as well, especially for nursing. Of the 52,725 applicants for nursing, only 25,034 were accepted. Other popular KMTC programs include Clinical Medicine, Community Health, and Emergency Medical Technician training.

The Ministry of Education has taken note of this shift, indicating that students are increasingly drawn to practical, hands-on professions with immediate employment prospects.

To ease the financial burden on families, the government has slashed university costs by up to 40%, thanks to an overhaul of the means-testing model. The updated formula now considers various indicators such as previous school fee expenditures, medical bills, family assets like land, and even informal financial support through the Hustler Fund.

Dr Ogambo emphasized that this move is aimed at ensuring that financial aid allocation mirrors the real economic challenges faced by students and their families.

Both the KUCCPS and Higher Education Fund portals remain open, giving unplaced students another chance to apply. The ministry is urging those who qualify but have not yet applied to do so promptly to avoid missing out.

Thousands Miss Out on KUCCPS Placement Despite University Qualification

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Despite meeting the minimum university entry grade, over 50,000 students have not secured placements in higher education institutions through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS).

According to recent data released by the Ministry of Education, more than 42,000 eligible students opted not to submit applications via the KUCCPS portal, while 7,000 applied but were not successfully placed.

Education officials have raised concern over this growing trend, especially as the government works to reduce the financial burden on learners. The ministry recently announced a major policy shift that has led to a 40% decrease in the cost of university education, following a revision of the means testing criteria used to assess financial need.

Dr Julius Ogambo, speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Education, revealed that a portion of those who qualified for university entry chose alternative education pathways. “A total of 7,640 students with a C+ and above opted to join Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. Another 6,750 chose Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) and primary teacher training colleges,” he said.

While top courses such as engineering and medicine continue to attract high interest, emerging preferences are also being noticed. Diploma programs in primary teacher education, for instance, recorded 20,786 applications for only 13,823 available slots. Ultimately, 11,636 students were placed in these teaching courses.

KMTC programs remain highly competitive, especially nursing, which received 52,725 applications—yet only 25,034 students were selected. Other sought-after programs include Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Emergency Medical Technician training, and Community Health.

The KUCCPS portal remains accessible for students who haven’t yet submitted their applications. In parallel, the Higher Education Fund portal is open for learners seeking government financial aid.

To make university education more equitable, the government has revamped the way it evaluates a student’s financial background. The new model takes into account factors such as previous school fee payment history, household land ownership, medical expenses, and even Hustler Fund applications.

Dr Ogambo emphasized that the government’s goal is to match students’ actual financial situations more accurately to ensure that education remains inclusive and accessible to all.

How to Apply for HELB Loans and Scholarships for 2025-2026 Academic Year: Step-by-Step Guide

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The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has officially launched its application window for the 2025–2026 academic year, providing both loans and scholarships to eligible students in universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.

With the deadline set for August 31, 2025, prospective applicants are encouraged to complete the process early to avoid last-minute setbacks.

Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you apply successfully using the Higher Education Financing (HEF) portal:

1. Visit the Official Portal

Start by visiting any of the following websites:

Click on the “Student Portal” to begin the process.

2. Account Creation

If you’re applying for the first time, you must create an account. You’ll be asked whether you have a National ID:

  • If YES, enter your ID number and your first name as it appears on your ID. Choose your citizenship type (Kenyan or foreign) and validate the information.
  • If NO, enter your KCSE Index Number and select the year you sat for the exam. Then validate your data.

After validation, fill in your email address and create a password. You must confirm your email address by checking your inbox or spam folder for an activation link.

3. Login to Your Account

Once your account is activated via email, log in using your registered email and password.

4. Complete Registration

You’ll be prompted to:

  • Enter a valid phone number to receive a verification code.
  • Confirm your KCSE index number or ID number.
  • Fill in required personal details like full names and location.
  • 5. Fill in Your Profile

After registration, complete your biodata, including:

  • Residence and postal address
  • Primary and secondary school details
  • Institution details (university/college)

You must also give consent for your personal data to be processed.

6. Provide Family and Academic Details

Submit:

  • Parent or guardian information

Course and program code (as per your admission letter)

7. Submit Scholarship/Loan Request

Under the loans and scholarships section:

  • Indicate the type of financial aid you’re applying for.
  • Accept the terms and conditions of the loan.
  • Provide guarantor details and bank or mobile payment details.
  • Double-check all fields before submission.

Click Submit to complete your application.

Final Tips

  • Keep your email active for future updates.
  • Ensure all documents are genuine and data is accurate.
  • Start early—do not wait for the final days.

This streamlined process is part of the government’s new Higher Education Financing model, which aims to support needy and deserving students across the country. With the HELB portal now active and KUCCPS placement results released, the journey to higher education for 2024 KCSE candidates is well underway.

 

2025 KUCCPS Placement Results Released as HELB Loan Applications Begin

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The Ministry of Education has officially released the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) results for the 2025 intake, signaling the beginning of a new academic journey for thousands of students across the country.

Alongside this announcement, the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has also opened its portal for applications for the 2025–2026 student loans and scholarships.

Students who sat for the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations can now access their placement results through the KUCCPS online portal. To do so, candidates should:

  1. Visit the official KUCCPS website at https://kuccps.net.
  2. Click on the “Student’s Portal” link or go directly to https://students.kuccps.net/login/.
  3. Log in using their KCSE Index Number, the year they sat for their exam (2024), and their password—either their KCPE Index Number or birth certificate number.

Once logged in, the student can view the institution they have been placed in and the specific course they will be studying.

The placement results come just in time as HELB officially launched its loan and scholarship application process for the 2025-2026 academic year. First-time applicants—typically students joining universities or TVET colleges for the first time—must apply through the www.hef.co.ke portal.

Continuing students, however, can access the application by dialing *642# or using the HELB mobile app.

In its statement, HELB advised all prospective beneficiaries to apply early to avoid common problems experienced when applications are left to the last minute. The application deadline has been set for August 31, 2025.

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba urged students to take full advantage of the government’s support structures, including HELB, to pursue higher education. He noted that the release of KUCCPS placement results and the HELB application opening are crucial steps in ensuring seamless transitions to tertiary institutions.

For many learners, this is the final hurdle before setting foot into universities and colleges. It is therefore vital for students to act promptly—checking their placement status and applying for financial assistance—to secure their academic futures.

These developments represent the government’s commitment to expanding access to higher education and easing the financial burden on students and their families.

HELB Kicks Off 2025-2026 Loan and Scholarship Application Window

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The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has announced the opening of its application portal for the 2025–2026 academic year, inviting both new and continuing students to apply for financial aid.

In a public notice dated Wednesday, July 2, HELB called on eligible undergraduate and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) learners to submit their applications for student loans and scholarships. The agency emphasized the need for early submissions to minimize delays and last-minute problems.

Students applying for financial support for the first time are required to submit their applications through the official website of the Higher Education Financing portal: www.hef.co.ke. On the other hand, returning students—those who have previously received HELB funding—have the option to apply either by dialing the USSD code *642# on their mobile phones or by using the HELB mobile app, available on Android and iOS platforms.

“The application process for both new and returning students pursuing undergraduate and TVET studies is now officially open for the 2025–2026 academic year,” the notice read. HELB encouraged all qualified individuals to act swiftly, stressing that the application deadline is set for August 31, 2025.

This development comes shortly after the Ministry of Education released the placement results under the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS), which allows 2024 KCSE candidates to learn which institutions and programs they have been assigned to.

HELB’s timely move ensures that students, particularly those from financially constrained backgrounds, can begin planning their higher education journeys without unnecessary delays. The loans and scholarships provided by HELB often make a critical difference for thousands of Kenyan youths pursuing further education.

It’s important for students to gather all necessary documents—such as copies of their admission letters, national ID or birth certificate, and academic results—early to facilitate a smooth application process.

The Higher Education Financing model introduced last year has continued to streamline the application and disbursement processes for loans and scholarships. By centralizing services through www.hef.co.ke, the government aims to improve transparency and accessibility to financial aid.

With the deadline looming, HELB has reiterated its call for early applications, urging students not to wait until the last minute. Applicants can also seek assistance from their institutions’ financial aid offices for guidance throughout the process.

Requirements to Teach in Kenya: TSC’s Employment Guidelines

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The Teachers Service Commission (TSC), established under Article 237 of the Kenyan Constitution and the TSC Act 2012, oversees the registration, recruitment, deployment, and discipline of teachers.

1. TSC Registration is Mandatory

All teaching candidates must be registered with the TSC before applying for employment. This is a legal requirement for anyone wishing to teach in either public or private institutions .
Key steps include:

Online application via the TSC portal (through E‑Citizen)

Scanned uploads of: academic and professional certificates, a national ID or passport, KRA PIN, GP69 med form, bank slip, passport photo, certificate of good conduct, and for non‑Kenyans, valid work/entry permits

Payment of a non‑refundable registration fee (~KSh 1,050)
Once approved, the applicant receives a TSC number and certificate within 30 days

2. Academic & Professional Qualifications

TSC categorizes teacher qualifications as follows (institutiontoday.com):

  • Primary (P1 certificate): For basic level teaching – must have PTE certificate and KCSE minimum grade (varies)
  • Diploma teachers: Mean grade of C+ at KCSE; must hold a recognized Diploma in Education (graduates before 2008 with C plain are eligible)
  • Graduate teachers: KCSE grade C+ with C+ in the two teaching subjects (or A‑level equivalents); Bachelor of Education or BA/BSc with a Post‑Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE)
  • Technical/TVET teachers: Must have relevant technical diplomas or degrees plus teaching qualification (Bed Tech, KTTC diploma, PGDE)

3. Age & Citizenship Requirements

  • Kenyan citizenship is mandatory
  • Applicants must be aged 45 years or younger

4. Recruitment Process

Once registered and qualified:

  • TSC advertises vacancies via the official portal (teachersonline.go.ke)
  • Only registered teachers may apply
  • Shortlisting uses a merit-based score sheet evaluating academic credentials, teaching practice, experience, and compliance with constitutional Chapter Six (clearance from KRA, HELB, EACC, CRB)
  • Interviews are conducted by county and TSC panels.
  • Applicants must pass background checks (criminal clearances) and medical exams
  • Selected candidates receive appointment letters and are expected to accept within the stipulated period

5. Document Submission & Verification

At the county level, directors vet original documents: ID, certificates, TSC registration, bank slip, KRA PIN, NHIF, professional certificates, and transcripts.

Successful applicants must also sign a service commitment (5 years, 3 years for North-Eastern region)

 

In summary, employment with TSC requires:

  1. Valid TSC registration with a certificate and number
  2. Appropriate academic/professional qualifications per position
  3. Kenyan citizenship and age ≤ 45
  4. Successful completion of application, vetting, interviews, and clearances
  5. Compliance with legal and administrative protocols during recruitment

This structured, merit-based process ensures quality, integrity, and transparency in teacher hiring across Kenya.

What Do Newly Employed Permanent & Pensionable Teachers in Kenya Earn Monthly?

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When a teacher transitions from internship to a permanent and pensionable contract under the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), their earnings notably increase. Here’s a breakdown of what newly hired teachers typically bring home each month—and why it matters.

1. Basic Salary by Qualification & Grade

Secondary school teachers with a Bachelor’s degree enter at Job Group C2 (formerly K), earning a base salary of KSh 34,955 per month

Diploma holders in education are assigned to C2 as well, but often earn slightly lower within the range (KSh 27,195–KSh 34,955)

Primary school teachers with a P1 certificate enter at Job Group B5 (Role B5, formerly G), with a base salary of KSh 21,756 per month

For simplicity, this article will focus on the standard graduate (Bachelor’s) pathway at C2.

2. Allowances: The Salary Boosters

New teachers are also eligible for a range of allowances that can significantly increase their gross monthly earnings:

Commuter allowance: Typically KSh 5,000 per month

Housing allowance varies depending on location:

KSh 16,500 for Nairobi-based teachers

KSh 12,800 in major municipalities

KSh 9,600 in minor municipalities

KSh 7,500 in rural or other areas

Hardship allowance (if posted in hardship zone): about KSh 10,900

Annual leave allowance: KSh 6,000 paid once per year (typically in January)

Example Monthly Structure (C2 Teacher in Rural Area)

Component Monthly Amount (KSh)
Basic salary 34,955
Commuter allowance 5,000
Housing allowance (rural) 7,500
Hardship allowance 10,900 (if applicable)
Gross total 58,355 – 69,255

If hardship allowance applies, gross earnings approach KSh 69,000+ before deductions.

 

3. Deductions: Net Income Factors

From the gross amount above, standard statutory and voluntary deductions apply, including:

  • PAYE (Income Tax)
  • NHIF (Health insurance)
  • NSSF (Pension)
  • HELB loan repayments (if applicable)
  • Union/Sacco contributions

According to payslip breakdowns, a C2 graduate may take home roughly KSh 38,000 net after deductions, assuming no HELB loan. With full HELB deductions, take-home pay could fall to around KSh 34,000–36,000.

 

4. From Internship to Permanent Status: A Pay Rise

Intern teachers earn far less: Primary interns get KSh 15,000 monthly (Ksh 14,000 after deductions), while secondary interns receive KSh 20,000 (Ksh 19,050 after deductions)

With permanency, their gross monthly income more than doubles, and net income nearly triples .

A newly confirmed permanent secondary teacher may move from taking home Ksh 19,000 as an intern to Ksh 47, 000 gross / 38, 000 net, marking a life-changing increase

 

5. What This Means for New Teachers

Living Standards
– With net income between KSh 35,000–Ksh 38,000, fresh teachers can cover basic expenses, rent, and begin savings.

Geography Matters
– Location plays a big role. Urban postings bring better housing allowances, but rural hardship perks can be even more lucrative.

Long-Term Progression
– After 3 years, promotion to C3 increases base salary (Ksh 43, 000–Ksh54,000) alongside allowances.

Pension & Security
– Permanent status delivers job stability, pension contributions, employer-backed benefits, and long-term career growth.

 

A new graduate teacher (C2) earns:
Gross: KSh 47K (urban) to KSh 58, 000–Ksh 69,000 (with hardship/rural bonuses)
Net: Approximately KSh 35, 000–38,000, subject to individual deductions.

Transitioning from internship to a permanent contract is transformative, more than tripling take-home pay.

Early career earnings can potentially support a modest urban lifestyle, foster financial independence, and lay the groundwork for future progression.

This salary structure underscores both the benefits and challenges of a teaching career in Kenya. While permanent positions offer a stable income and growth trajectory, the actual amount net of deductions and relative to living costs shapes the real-life experience of new educators.

What Newly Employed Intern Teachers in Kenya Earn Monthly: A Closer Look at Primary, Junior, and Senior Secondary Levels

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In Kenya, thousands of graduate teachers take up internship roles each year under the Teacher Internship Programme initiated by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC). This programme provides fresh teacher graduates with an opportunity to gain practical classroom experience while awaiting permanent and pensionable employment.

However, while the internship serves as an entry point into the teaching profession, the monthly earnings of these intern teachers vary depending on the level they are assigned to — Primary, Junior Secondary (JSS), or Senior Secondary schools.

For Primary School Intern Teachers, the monthly stipend is currently set at Kshs 15,000. This amount is subject to statutory deductions such as the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), which slightly reduces the net amount the intern receives. These deductions usually bring the take-home pay to approximately Kshs 13,000.

Intern teachers in Junior Secondary Schools, who are expected to have higher academic qualifications such as a Bachelor’s degree or Diploma in Education, are paid a slightly higher stipend. Their gross monthly pay stands at Kshs 20,000. After statutory deductions, they typically take home around Kshs 17,000 to Kshs 18,000.

As for those posted to Senior Secondary Schools, the stipend remains similar to that of Junior Secondary teachers — also pegged at Kshs 20,000. This parity is because both JSS and Senior Secondary levels require teachers with specialized subject knowledge and higher professional training.

Despite teaching more advanced content and possibly handling larger workloads, Senior Secondary interns still earn the same as their JSS counterparts under the current guidelines.

These internship stipends are not considered salaries but rather a token or allowance meant to support the interns during their one-year engagement. Interns are not entitled to other employment benefits such as housing, commuter, or hardship allowances, which permanent teachers receive.

However, the experience gained during this period is vital for career progression and often increases the chances of future absorption on permanent and pensionable terms.

In conclusion, while intern teachers play a vital role in Kenya’s education system — especially with the ongoing implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) — their remuneration remains modest.

The TSC has continued to advocate for increased funding to enhance intern pay and improve the programme. As the demand for qualified teachers rises, there are ongoing calls from teacher unions and stakeholders to review and improve the welfare of intern teachers across all levels.