Kenyatta University Admission list 2026/2027
Kenyatta University, Types of Admission, Release date of admission lists, How selection is done, Where and how to check the admission list, FAQs, What to do if admitted.
The Kenyatta University admission list marks the beginning of an exciting academic journey for thousands of students each year. Whether you are joining as a first-year undergraduate or advancing your education at the postgraduate level, understanding how the process works gives you confidence and clarity.
From checking your admission status to preparing documents, paying fees and reporting on time, every step matters. Staying alert, organized and informed ensures that once your name appears on the list, you transition smoothly into university life.
What Is the Kenyatta University Admission List
The Kenyatta University admission list is an official compilation of successful applicants who have been offered admission into specific academic programmes for a given intake period. It is released after the university completes its evaluation of applications and selection procedures.
The list usually includes:
- Names of successful candidates
- Application or reference numbers
- Course offered
- Admission category, such as government-sponsored or self-sponsored
- Campus or study centre
- Reporting dates
Appearing on the KU admission list means you have been provisionally accepted and must complete further steps such as downloading your admission letter, paying fees and registering for classes to secure your slot.
Types of Intakes at Kenyatta University
Kenyatta University admits students through several intakes each academic year, which explains why admission lists are released at different times.
September Intake
This is the main intake for government-sponsored students placed through the national placement system. It also includes privately sponsored students applying for degree and postgraduate programmes.
January Intake
The January intake mainly caters to self-sponsored students and continuing education programmes. Many diploma, certificate and postgraduate applicants join during this period.
May Intake
The May intake is popular for postgraduate studies, especially master’s and doctoral programmes, as well as selected undergraduate courses offered in school-based or part-time formats.
Each intake has its own admission list, and applicants should always confirm which intake they applied for before checking their status.
How Kenyatta University Selects Students
Selection into KU is based on several factors, depending on the level of study and sponsorship category.
Undergraduate Government-Sponsored Students
For candidates applying through national placement, selection depends on:
-
KCSE performance
-
Cluster subject requirements
-
Course competitiveness
-
Available slots
-
Affirmative action policies
Highly competitive courses such as medicine, law and engineering require higher cluster points compared to less competitive programmes.
Undergraduate Self-Sponsored Students
For privately sponsored students, KU considers:
-
KCSE grades or equivalent qualifications
-
Diploma or certificate results for upgrading students
-
Course prerequisites
-
Availability of spaces
Postgraduate Applicants
Masters and doctoral applicants are evaluated based on:
-
Undergraduate or master’s degree classification
-
Relevance of previous study to the chosen programme
-
Professional experience for some courses
-
Departmental recommendations
Meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee admission, especially in programmes with limited capacity.
When the Kenyatta University Admission List Is Released
The exact release dates vary each year depending on application deadlines, selection timelines and administrative processes. Generally:
-
September intake lists are released a few weeks before the academic year begins
-
January intake lists appear in late November or December
-
May intake lists are often released between March and April
Students are advised to remain patient and regularly monitor official university announcements during these periods.
How to Check the Kenyatta University Admission List
Once the admission list is released, applicants can confirm their status through the university’s admission portals or official communication channels.
The typical process includes:
-
Visiting the KU admissions portal
-
Logging in using your application number or national identification number
-
Navigating to the admission status section
-
Viewing or downloading your admission letter if selected
- Kenyatta University Official website is accessible at: https://www.ku.ac.ke/
Some applicants may also receive notifications through email or short message services, but it is always wise to verify directly using the portal.
What to Do After Being Selected
Seeing your name on the Kenyatta University admission list is exciting, but the work is not over yet. You must complete several steps to officially become a KU student.
Download and Read the Admission Letter
The admission letter contains critical information such as:
-
Programme details
-
Reporting date
-
Campus
-
Fee structure
-
Bank payment instructions
-
Required documents
Pay the Required Fees
Students are usually required to pay a portion of the tuition fees or a registration fee before reporting. Keep your payment receipts safely, as you may need them during registration.
Prepare Your Documents
Common documents required during reporting include:
-
Original academic certificates and transcripts
-
National identification card or birth certificate
-
Passport-sized photographs
-
Admission letter
-
Medical examination forms
-
School leaving certificate
Failure to present these documents can delay your registration.
Report on the Assigned Date
KU assigns specific reporting dates for different programmes and campuses. Arriving late without formal communication can lead to forfeiting your slot, so plan your travel and accommodation early.
Complete Registration and Course Enrollment
After verification of documents, you will:
-
Be issued a registration number
-
Activate your student portal
-
Register for units
-
Receive orientation schedules
Once these steps are complete, you are officially part of the KU community.
Understanding Government Sponsored vs Self Sponsored Categories
Many students get confused about the difference between the two major admission categories.
Government-Sponsored Students
These students are placed through national selection and benefit from subsidised tuition fees. They usually join during the main September intake and have limited flexibility in changing courses or campuses.
Self-Sponsored Students
These applicants apply directly to KU and pay full tuition fees. They often enjoy more flexibility in choosing intakes and study modes such as evening, weekend or school-based programmes.
Both categories receive the same quality of teaching and graduate with identical certificates.
What If Your Name Is Not on the Admission List
Not seeing your name on the Kenyatta University admission list can be disappointing, but it does not always mean the end of the road.
Here are possible next steps:
-
Wait for supplementary or second lists that may be released
-
Check if your application was incomplete
-
Apply for a different intake
-
Consider alternative programmes with lower competition
-
Upgrade your grades through bridging courses if necessary
You can also contact the admissions office for clarification if you believe there was an error in your application.
Common Mistakes Applicants Should Avoid
Many students miss out on admission or delay their registration because of simple mistakes.
These include:
-
Providing incorrect personal details during the application
-
Using the wrong subject combinations
-
Applying for programmes you do not qualify for
-
Missing application deadlines
-
Failing to upload the required documents
-
Ignoring reporting dates
Tips for Securing Admission to KU in Future Intakes
If you are planning to apply to KU in the upcoming intakes, consider the following strategies:
-
Research course requirements thoroughly before applying
-
Choose several programmes to increase your chances
-
Apply early to avoid last-minute technical problems
-
Ensure your academic documents are clear and certified
-
Monitor announcements regularly
-
Seek guidance from career counsellors or teachers
Why Kenyatta University Remains a Top Choice
Kenyatta University continues to attract thousands of applicants every year because of its strong academic reputation and wide range of programmes.
Some of the reasons students prefer KU include:
-
Diverse undergraduate and postgraduate courses
-
Modern learning facilities
-
Multiple campuses and study centers
-
Strong research culture
-
Active student life and clubs
-
Employability of graduates
Frequently Asked Questions About the KU Admission List
Can I change my course after appearing on the admission list
Course changes are possible in limited circumstances and depend on availability and meeting entry requirements. You must apply formally through the admissions office.
Does appearing on the list guarantee enrollment
No, admission is provisional until you report, submit documents and pay the required fees within the stated deadlines.
Are admission lists released in batches?
Yes, especially for self-sponsored and postgraduate programmes, several lists may be released over time.
Can I defer my admission?
Deferral may be allowed for valid reasons such as medical issues, but you must apply officially and receive approval before skipping the reporting date.
SHARE THIS POST WITH OTHERS!